Operation Sail’s international fleet gathered in New York City for the 1976 United States Bicentennial.
The event brought tall-masted sailing ships and naval vessels from many nations to New York Harbor on Independence Day. It was one of the most visually prominent maritime events of the bicentennial celebrations and included an international naval review.
President Gerald Ford reviewed the fleet from the guided-missile cruiser USS Wainwright as ships assembled in the harbor. The display connected the anniversary to the city’s long maritime history and gave international participants a role in the American commemoration.
Operation Sail also involved Boston later in July, which is why Boston can appear in accounts of the event. New York City was the first major gathering point on July 4, while the fleet then continued to Boston. The event should not be confused with the single-city exposition once proposed during early bicentennial planning.