Sail 250 – Virginia Beach

Join us to Virginia Beach for Norfolk Harborfest and the Sail 250 ship experience in 2026, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the birth of the United States.

This incredible event will bring over 55 international tall ships and military vessels to the Virginia waterfront, alongside 4,000 officers, cadets, and crew members from 20 nations. Experience the excitement of the Sail250 America celebration, including the Parade of Sail with bleacher seating and a buffet lunch, along with live entertainment and tall ship tours. Mark the 50th anniversary of Harborfest with spectacular fireworks and vibrant festivities along the downtown waterfront. Your tour includes visits to the Fort Monroe Museum, Nauticus & Battleship Wisconsin, a Naval Station tour, and the MacArthur Memorial, as well as free time on Granby Street. You’ll enjoy all accommodations, breakfast daily and two dinners. Join us for an unforgettable experience on this historic celebration! 

A valid Canadian passport is required for this tour.

Day 1 | Tuesday June 16 – Toronto to Gettysburg, PA

Meet our coach at one of our pre-selected pickup points where we will make our way to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Upon arrival in Gettysburg we will check in to our hotel where we will spend one night and have free time for dinner on our own.

Day 2 | Wednesday, June 17 – Gettysburg, PA to Norfolk, VA (B, D)

This morning after an included breakfast we will check out and embark on a guided tour of Gettysburg, one of the most significant Civil War sites in the United States. Explore the battlefield memorials, and learn about the pivotal events that took place here. In the afternoon we will travel to Norfolk/Virginia Beach – home of Harborfest. Check in to the Hampton Inn in Virginia Beach for the next four nights and enjoy an included group dinner this evening.

Day 3 | Thursday, June 18 – Free Day at Virginia Beach & The Boardwalk (B)

After breakfast this morning we’ll have a free day at the Beach & Boardwalk. We will arrange a shuttle to and from the boardwalk at a pre-determined time so you can enjoy the beach at your own pace. Enjoy stunning ocean views, street performers, and vibrant shops, or rent a bike to explore its three-mile stretch. Don’t miss the iconic King Neptune statue and the variety of restaurants offering fresh seafood and coastal cuisine. Tonight dinner will be on your own.

Day 4 | Friday, June 19 – The Parade of Sail (B)

After breakfast, head to Fort Monroe for the Parade of Sail, featuring over 55 ships. Explore the Fort Monroe Visitor & Education Center and the Casemate Museum. Enjoy lunch on your own. This afternoon take in the MacArthur Memorial and enjoy Norfolk’s Harborfest Celebration at Town Point Park with live music, food, Tall Ship tours, and fireworks. You will have time for dinner on you own in the Waterside District this evening.

Day 5 | Saturday, June 20 – Tall Ship Tours (B, D)

Explore the Tall Ships, then visit Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin. Lunch on your own. Sail on the Spirit of Norfolk or Victory Rover Cruise to view the Tall Ships, with dinner included. Return to Harborfest for more activities and fireworks.

Day 6 | Sunday, June 21 – Depart for PA (B)

After breakfast, we will depart Virginia Beach for a stopover night in Pennsylvania making rest stops along the way. Tonight you will have time for dinner on your own.

Day 7 | Monday, June 22 – Depart for Home (B)

This morning after breakfast, we will check out of our hotel and make our way home dropping you at your original pickup points and bid you farewell.

A deposit of $250.00 is due at the time of booking. Final payment will be due April 21, 2026. All payments are non- refundable if you cancel on your own terms. The listed itinerary is only a guideline and is subject to change. Cancellation insurance is highly recommended. Please visit our website for our full terms and conditions: www.cardinalcoachtours.ca/our-policy/