OpSail 2012 Virginia™

  • Elizabeth River scene

    The great Naval ships that historically visited Virginia's ports regularly will once again return in the summer of 2012. They will not  be alone as the Elizabeth River will swell with modern naval ships, fireboats, yachts and many other onlookers.

    Into the Sunset

    Events will range from the traditional Parades of Sail, ship tours, spectacular fireworks, concerts and festivals, educational events  and programs, Adopt a Ship opportunities, crew sporting events and more.

    Tall ship docked

    The historic tall ships of America's past are even more impressive up close. Don't miss a chance to go aboard and see what true sailing is all about.

    Rigging

    At OpSail 2012 Virginia™, get on board a classic American Tall ship and experience what it was like to make these massive vessels go with only the wind in their sails.

    Sailors

    A commemoration of the War of 1812, the important mission of the US Navy will be recognized as OpSail 2012 Virginia celebrates the contributions the Navy has made in the building of our country while educating visitors on the important battles and historic events that took place here.

    logo

    Tall ships are coming to Norfolk, Virginia! Over 20 ships from countries around the world have been invited to Norfolk’s waterfront for this spectacular event. Operation Sail, Inc. (OpSail) and the U.S. Navy will commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the birth of The Star-Spangled Banner in conjunction with Norfolk’s annual Harborfest.

    previous
    next

  • Tall ships are coming to Norfolk, Virginia! Over 20 ships from countries around the world have been invited to Norfolk’s waterfront for this spectacular event. Operation Sail, Inc. (OpSail) and the U.S. Navy will commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the birth of The Star-Spangled Banner in conjunction with Norfolk’s annual Harborfest.

    Events will range from the traditional Parades of Sail, ship tours, spectacular fireworks, concerts and festivals, educational events and programs, Adopt a Ship opportunities, crew sporting events and more planned along Virginia's Waterfronts and in many Virginia communities.

    Virginia Green Logo

    OpSail 2012 Virginia is a registered Virginia Green Event. Visitors can expect to see recycling and other green practices in place at all OpSail-related festivals and events. 

  • OpSail Experiences

    Harborfest

    Norfolk Harborfest

    Tall ships are just one part of Norfolk's annual Harborfest. One of Hampton Roads' largest dockside festivals, this family-friendly event features everything from wine-tasting to pirates to spectacular fireworks. This year Harborfest will also feature over 130 hours of live entertainment on multiple stages.

    read more
    Tall Ships Eastern Shore Experience

    Tall Ships Cape Charles

    Hampton Roads isn't the only Virginia region celebrating the arrival of Tall Ships. Just across the famous Chesapeake Bay Bridge on the Eastern Shore, the idyllic town of Cape Charles is planning a full 5 day celebration of Tall Ships. The event will host a number of sailing vessels as well as numerous modern Navy ships.

    read more
    Adventure Parasail

    Adventures in the Air

    June 18, 2013

    Many people love a beach sunrise, sand between their toes and a refreshing ocean breeze. It’s a beautiful thing, for sure, but have ...

    Read More
    Luray Caverns

    8 Virginia Caverns to LOVE

    June 18, 2013

    Connect the dots down the Shenandoah Valley this summer when you visit all eight Virginia caverns. Each has very unique features and its ...

    Read More
    Bear Creek Lake State Park

    The Great American Backyard Campout

    June 17, 2013

    Centered around one night, June 22, the Great American Backyard Campout can happen anywhere – your own backyard, a neighborhood park ...

    Read More
    Ocean View Fishing Pier

    4 Summer Road Trip Ideas for Families

    June 14, 2013

    Do you ever hit the road without a real destination and just make it all up as you go along? My family does. We have a general idea, but no ...

    Read More
    Fallingwater Cascades Hiking Trail

    7 Lesser Known Virginia Waterfalls

    June 12, 2013

    The vast majority of Virginia’s waterfalls are products of mountain streams – mountain streams that are carrying a great deal ...

    Read More
    <>
    of

  • Virginia Shop

     

    Old School Virginia

     

    Get the 2013 Travel guide

    2013 Virginia Travel Guide - Small Town cover

    Order your Free 2013 Virginia Travel Guide.

    Order now button 

  • Travel Updates

    What's going on around Virginia? Subscribe to the Virginia eNews.

    Subscribe