Boston Common - Niche Media - A side of Boston that's anything but common.
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/809115
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SAIL TRAINING INTERNATIONAL (TOP) Maritime educational pro- grams for kids, meet and greets with sailors, ship tours, and soirées are among a fleet of cool activities. As Rhodes puts it, "You really can't imagine something of this magnitude until you see it." For instance, the length of the all of the ships is 6,238 feet—that's eight Prudential Tower buildings! The oldest vessel, the Europa, was built in 1911, and 2,000 crew members will fill the streets of Boston. To help you navigate the waters, we've broken down the can't-miss events for you. PHOTO OP Grande Parade of Sail: Nest out a spot early on Castle Island, the Seaport, North End, or Charlestown for the best viewing of this glorious entrance. More than 40 vessels in unfurled majesty sail through the Harbor's main channel before tying up at their berths. Bring your selfie stick. Saturday, June 17, 9 am–3 pm ALL ABOARD Public Boarding of Ships: Brig or Barquentine, Yawl or Ketch? Find out the difference by touring the vessels. Visitors will learn about what life is like for the crewmembers (tight quarters!) and treated to a close-up view of knots, rigging, and navigation. Saturday, June 17–Wednesday, June 22 S.S. AND BBQ Crew Street Parade and BBQ: Join the fine sailors in full uniform as they march from Seaport Boulevard to Downtown Crossing, where guests will enjoy a traditional American barbecue, prizes, and hobnobbing. Monday, June 19 . Over four million visitors are expected for Sail Boston 2017. The public is invited to board the many of the ships for a behind-the- scenes tour. SCENE CELEBRATION 50 BOSTONCOMMON-MAGAZINE.COM