A century-old maritime tradition returns to the San Francisco Bay as the Pacific Inter-Club Yacht Association kicks off the 2026 season with its annual Opening Day boat parade.
Boaters are invited to register and decorate their vessels with creative takes on folklore and storytelling, inspired by this year’s theme, “Myths and Legends: 130 Years of Community Boating.”
On Sunday, April 26, festivities begin with a “Blessing of the Fleet” in Raccoon Strait before the noontime parade, led by a San Francisco fireboat and followed by decorated and undecorated boats cruising along the waterfront.
Spectators can watch from the shore, join the procession or board a ticketed viewing cruise departing from Alameda, offering lunch and up-close access to the floating parade route.