Just one year out from the return of the Sail Boston event, officials and organizers are preparing for a historically massive showing of U.S. and international ships to mark the country’s 250th anniversary.

“This is about making memories for the kids and for people who come from all over the world next summer, celebrating, experiencing these majestic ships and working military vessels, meeting real sailors and cadets in uniform, bringing to life history, geography, navigation, culture and service,” said Gov. Maura Healey. “This is going to be incredible. And once again, like in 1776, that spirit of unity, of optimism will be centered in the Bay State.”

Sail Boston 2026 will run from July 11 to 16 next year, marking the nation’s 250th anniversary with what organizers describe as an “epic peacetime gathering” of international tall ships and military ships.

The first gathering of the international tall ships in Boston Harbor took place in 1976, during the 200th anniversary of the U.S., and welcomed Queen Elizabeth along with the fleet. The maritime gatherings took place again in 1992, 2000, 2009 and 2017.

The 2026 celebration may be the “the largest maritime event ever seen in New England,” said Sail Boston Executive Director Dusty Rhodes.

“We have 28 ships confirmed now, representing 27 different countries,” said Rhodes. “The fleet will probably be about 70 vessels. We’re continuing to get confirmation. It takes many years to get commitments, because you’ve got to work with the Argentinian Navy or the President of Colombia.”

In the historic 2000 event, there were 27 larger ships in the Harbor, Rhodes said.

The tall ships are typically around 250 to 350 feet in length, Rhodes explained, noting that Peru has the “brand new” largest ship coming at 390 feet long. The U.K. is expected to send two Gray Hulls, along with one from the U.S.

The 2026 fleet is expected to have about 50 smaller Class B or Class C vessels attending, Rhodes said.

The Sail Boston event will occur while FIFA World Cup matches draw international tourism to Boston next summer. Mayor Michelle Wu said the city is preparing to welcome millions of tourists and host both events “in a way that prioritizes the safety, mobility and excitement of our residents and visitors.”

“We’re going to do everything we can to make sure that our transportation, our public safety agencies are ready,” said Healey. “All of the assets, working together, working in partnership.”

Coast Guard officials spoke to safety preparations as well Wednesday, noting they are “providing clear and advanced communication with the maritime community and the public to minimize disruptions and maintain safety,” as well as “engaging early and often with maritime stakeholders, waterfront businesses, harbor users and the public.”

In past years, Wu noted, Sale Boston has generated over “$120 million in economic activity for our small businesses, boosting commerce, tourism and hospitality.” Organizers said they’re planning for an even bigger 2026 turnout.

The Sail Boston event will be accompanied by waterfront concessions, entertainment programming, and markets, speakers said.

“Sail Boston will reflect the very best that the city of Boston has to offer next summer,” said Wu. “As they did 400 years before, tall ships will cross the horizon, and our waterfront will be a spectacle of maritime history for millions of attendees, creating lifetime memories. I, for one, can’t wait to bring the kids.”