NEW ORLEANS – The U.S. Navy, Marines Corps, and Coast Guard, in partnership with New Orleans & Company and the Port of New Orleans, announced additional ships confirmed to participate in Sail 250 New Orleans, with newly released details highlighting a lineup of U.S. naval, Coast Guard, and international ships arriving along the Mississippi River next month.
Arriving Wednesday, May 27, the following operational ships will dock along the riverfront:
- USS Kearsarge (LHD 3)
- USS Farragut (DDG 99)
- U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk (WMEC 913)
- HMS Trent (United Kingdom)
- HNLMS Friesland (Netherlands)
Previously announced international sailing ships arriving Thursday, May 28, include:
- U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle (WIX 327)
- CNS Esmeralda (Chile)
- BAP Unión (Peru)
- ARC Gloria (Colombia)
- ROU Capitán Miranda (Uruguay)
- ARA Libertad (Argentina)
- HSwMS Gladan (Sweden)
Together, these ships offer visitors a rare opportunity to experience both modern naval ships and some of the world’s most iconic sailing vessels as part of the weeklong Sail 250 New Orleans celebration.
Sail 250 New Orleans, taking place May 28–June 1, will transform the Mississippi River waterfront into a global maritime showcase, featuring the Parade of Sail, public ship tours, fireworks, and cultural programming across the city. As the first event in the nationwide Freedom 250 commemoration, New Orleans will serve as the official kickoff for this historic, once-in-a-generation celebration.
“The vibrant spirit, rich maritime history, and legendary hospitality of New Orleans makes this the perfect launch for Sail 250,” said Navy Capt. Seth Eisenmenger, lead planner for the event. “We look forward to sharing this celebration with you – join us to meet our people, see the ships, and help us honor 250 years of America’s military might.”
Hosting Sail 250 underscores New Orleans’ legacy as a maritime gateway and its continued role in welcoming global audiences for major events. Festivities will span the riverfront from the Crescent City Connection to Poland Avenue Wharf, with free and ticketed experiences available to the public.
“To be the first port city to welcome Sail 250 is incredibly significant, and there is no more fitting place than New Orleans to begin this national commemoration,” said Walt Leger III, president & CEO of New Orleans & Company. “For more than three centuries, our city has stood as a vital gateway along the Mississippi River, connecting nations, commerce, and culture. Sail 250 is an opportunity to celebrate that legacy while welcoming the world to experience the energy, history, and hospitality that make New Orleans truly Built to Host.”
Sail 250 New Orleans is hosted by the City of New Orleans and the Port of New Orleans, in celebration with the Sail 250 Committee as part of the national America 250 celebration.
“Sail 250 New Orleans is a powerful reflection of our city’s enduring role as a global maritime gateway,” said Beth Branch, president and CEO of the Port of New Orleans. “Welcoming this remarkable lineup of U.S. naval and international vessels to the Mississippi River highlights not only the strength of our partnerships across the maritime community, but also the rich history and strategic importance of our port. As we help launch the America 250 celebration, we are proud to showcase New Orleans’ legacy of connecting people, commerce, and cultures from around the world.”
For more information, including a full schedule of events and ship details, visit www.sail250neworleans.com.