The tall-ship and naval celebration held during the 1976 United States Bicentennial was called Operation Sail.
The event brought large sailing ships and naval vessels from several countries to American waters. The best-known 1976 observances centered on New York Harbor, where an international fleet gathered around Independence Day, followed by related activity in Boston.
Operation Sail connected maritime pageantry with the history of the American Revolution and the country’s international relationships. Tall ships offered a visual reminder of the sailing vessels and naval forces that shaped eighteenth-century trade, warfare, and exploration.
Operation Sail also matters to America250 because the name has been reused for later maritime commemorations. Planned 2026 activities are described as part of OpSail 2026, with port calls and events in several American cities. The 1976 event is the historical reference point for that modern anniversary program.