Fleet Week is returning to New York City, and this year marks a major milestone. For 2025, the focus is on 250 years of service from the Navy and Marine Corps — a big number, but what it really means is generations of people doing hard, important work at sea.
Fleet Week isn’t just about the military showing up in town. It’s about opening up ships, having conversations, and letting the public see what life looks like for the people in uniform.
In this guide, you’ll find what’s happening during Fleet Week NYC 2025 — from ship tours to ceremonies — and how to get the most out of the experience. Queens personal injury lawyer is sharing this overview to support community engagement and to remind folks to stay safe during large public events.
Fleet Week NYC 2025 Overview
The dates this year are May 21 through May 27, with events happening across Manhattan and Staten Island.
The theme is “Honoring the Past, Defending the Future,” marking 250 years of sea service. It’s not just about looking back — it’s also about recognizing the work that continues today, from peacekeeping to disaster response.
This is the 37th year New York has hosted Fleet Week. It’s become something people look forward to — not just for the ships, but for the chance to meet sailors and marines face-to-face.
Parade of Ships
One of the signature moments is the Parade of Ships, which happens on Wednesday, May 21, between 7:45 AM and 11:00 AM. It’s a quiet but powerful scene — ships making their way up the Hudson River.
If you’re planning to watch, head to the waterfront anywhere between Battery Park and the George Washington Bridge.
Ships in this year’s lineup include:
- USS New York (LPD 21)
- USS Oak Hill (LSD 51)
- USCGC Calhoun (WMSL-759)
- USCGC Sturgeon Bay (WTGB 109)
- HMCS Frédérick Rolette (AOPV 434) from Canada
Public Ship Tours
Ship tours are a big part of Fleet Week. They’re open to everyone and give people a chance to walk the decks, ask questions, and learn what it’s like to work aboard a military vessel.
In Manhattan:
- Pier 88 South (USS New York) — Tours on May 23–24, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Pier 90 North (USCGC Calhoun and HMCS Frédérick Rolette) — Same dates and times
- Pier 86 (Intrepid Museum) — Five training boats from the U.S. Naval Academy, May 22–23, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
In Staten Island:
- Homeport Pier (USS Oak Hill and USCGC Sturgeon Bay) — Tours run May 22–26, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Tours usually take around 30 minutes. Most ships also have small shops on board selling patches, hats, and other souvenirs.
Key Events and Activities
The Intrepid Museum is hosting several events open to the public:
- May 23: Top Gun screening on the flight deck, 6:00 PM
- May 24–25: Military competitions and challenges, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM
- May 24–26: Ongoing activities and performances, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- May 26 (Memorial Day): Ceremony starts at 10:00 AM
Other demonstrations happening during the week include Marine Corps martial arts, a Navy diving tank, and military flyovers. Expect a mix of live music, educational exhibits, and a lot of interaction with service members.
Safety and Legal Considerations
Events like this draw large crowds, especially around the piers and during the Parade of Ships. It’s important to plan ahead — give yourself extra time, stay aware of your surroundings, and follow the posted guidelines.
One thing to note: drones aren’t allowed near the ships for safety reasons.
From a legal angle, any public event carries some risk. Whether it’s a slip and fall, overcrowding, or another incident, there’s always a possibility that someone gets hurt. In those cases, understanding liability matters.
If something does go wrong, having legal support can make a difference. We are here to help individuals navigate issues that might arise during public events like this.
Conclusion
Fleet Week NYC 2025 is a chance to connect with the people behind the uniforms and see a side of military service most folks don’t often think about. It’s not flashy — it’s personal, hands-on, and worth checking out.
If you’re heading out, take care of yourself, stay alert in the crowds, and enjoy what the city and sea services have put together.
And if you have questions about injury or safety concerns during the week, Boland Injury Lawyers, P.C. is available to talk.