Boating & FerriesEvents

Tall Ships “When And If” and “Liberty Clipper” Arrive at Put-in-Bay Next Weekend

Two historic tall ships are headed to Put-in-Bay next weekend for a rare and unforgettable visit. The When And If and Liberty Clipper will arrive Thursday evening, August 14, and remain docked at Fox’s Dock through Monday morning, August 18. Public sailing trips will be offered on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

The When And If—a 63-foot wooden schooner originally commissioned by General George S. Patton—is a living piece of maritime history. Designed in 1939 by famed naval architect John G. Alden, the vessel was named after Patton’s vow to sail the world “when the war is over, and if I live through it.” Though Patton never completed that journey, the beautifully restored vessel continues to turn heads at tall ship festivals and ports across the country. More about its history and trip schedules can be found at sailwhenandif.com.

Joining her is the Liberty Clipper, a 125-foot replica of an 1800s Baltimore Clipper schooner, known for their speed and role in American maritime history. Built in 1983 and based out of Boston, the Liberty Clipper offers both day sails and overnight windjammer cruises. You can find trip details under the Tall Ships Festival section at libertyclipper.com.

The two ships will be docked side-by-side—“rafting off” each other—offering an impressive sight for visitors and a rare chance to step aboard or set sail on these majestic vessels. Their visit is sponsored by The Perry Group and will be promoted widely across social media, including by the Miller Ferry and the Put-in-Bay Chamber.

Don’t miss the chance to see, photograph, and sail aboard these extraordinary ships while they’re docked in the heart of downtown Put-in-Bay.

How to Purchase Tickets:
Tickets for each ship’s sailings are available directly through their websites. For When And If, visit sailwhenandif.com and click on “Trips / Regattas and Events.” For Liberty Clipper, visit libertyclipper.com and select “Tall Ships Festival.” Advance booking is strongly recommended as spots are limited.