By Y.M. Lowy

Boro Parkers looking for a unique summer outing may want to head toward the Brooklyn waterfront this July, as dozens of international tall ships and naval vessels are set to sail beneath the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge as part of the nationwide Sail4th celebration marking America’s 250th anniversary.

The massive event will bring ships from 46 countries into New York Harbor in one of the largest international maritime gatherings in decades.

The tall ship parade, expected to be the main attraction for Brooklyn residents, is scheduled to begin around 9:30 a.m. as ships pass under the Verrazzano Bridge and continue north through the harbor. The procession could take more than two hours to fully pass a single viewing area.

An aerial demonstration by the Blue Angels is also expected around 10:15 a.m.

Following the parade, several ships are expected to dock throughout the city and open for free public tours, giving visitors a chance to step aboard vessels from around the world.

Preparations for the event began years ago and involved coordination between dozens of countries, naval officials, and local, state, and federal agencies. Similar harbor celebrations have only taken place a handful of times in modern history, including during the 1976 Bicentennial and the 2000 OpSail celebration.

For Brooklyn residents, the event is expected to offer a rare chance to experience a major international celebration just minutes away from home.