Step back in time this summer with tall ship tours in Savannah, GA, aboard the historic ELISSA, an 1877 tall ship and National Historic Landmark. The ELISSA visits Savannah July 23 through July 26, 2026, as part of the National Sail 250 Tall Ship Tour.
The unique event is unlike anything Savannah has seen in more than a century. Don’t miss the chance to board one of the world’s oldest actively sailing vessels, in one of the South’s most historic cities.
Experience Tall Ship Tours in Savannah During Sail 250
Built in Scotland in 1877, the ELISSA has traveled the world for nearly 150 years. Today, she serves as the flagship of the Texas Seaport Museum in Galveston. The historic ship is one of only three actively sailing square-rigged iron barques still in existence.
Her appearance in Savannah is especially noteworthy because the vessel last visited the city in 1894. More than 130 years later, she returns as part of Sail 250, a nationwide celebration leading up to America’s 250th anniversary.
Savannah, GA is one of only a handful of ports selected for this portion of the tour. This makes the city’s participation a significant event for history enthusiasts and maritime fans alike.
Free Deck Tours Aboard the Historic ELISSA
The highlight of these tall ship tours in Savannah is the opportunity to explore the ELISSA firsthand.
Free, self-guided deck tours will be available daily, 10am-5pm, while the ship is docked along River Street. Walk the decks among the towering masts and rigging, meet the crew, and learn the historic vessel’s storied history. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that has kept this remarkable vessel sailing for nearly a century and a half.
For travelers seeking an even more memorable experience, a ticketed Salute to Sunset Party is scheduled aboard the ELISSA on Saturday evening, July 25.
Stay Near Savannah’s Historic Attractions
Where you stay in Savannah during a special event can make a significant difference.
McMillan Inn, located in the Historic District near Forsyth Park, provides convenient access to River Street and many of the city’s most visited attractions. Guests can spend the day exploring Savannah’s waterfront before returning to the comfort and hospitality of our historic bed and breakfast.
It’s an ideal combination of location, convenience, and Southern charm.
Plan Ahead for This Rare Opportunity
Unlike annual festivals that return year after year, the ELISSA’s visit is a truly limited event. Opportunities to board a National Historic Landmark that last visited Savannah in the nineteenth century do not come along often.
July 2026 in Savannah offers a truly remarkable opportunity to visit a living piece of maritime history.
Things to Do in Savannah July 2026
While the ELISSA is certain to be one of the most unique attractions in the city this summer, it is far from the only reason to visit Savannah in July. The ship’s location along River Street is near many of Savannah’s most popular attractions.
After touring the ship, spend time exploring the fun shops, galleries, and waterfront restaurants of Savannah’s iconic River Street. Continue into the beautiful Historic District to discover the city’s famous squares, historic homes, museums, and architecture.
Summer evenings are particularly enjoyable downtown. Visitors can enjoy dinner, live music, and leisurely walks beneath the city’s Spanish moss-draped oak trees.
ELISSA’s convenient berth on River Street makes it easy to combine maritime history with many of Savannah’s most popular attractions – not to mention your room at McMillan Inn!