There are few things more exhilarating than watching an exciting event or airborne celebration from the deck of your Monterey.  

The east coast of the U.S. offers three exceptional sights to see from your boat this summer – tall ships, blue angels and fireworks, but most places schedule similar spectacles throughout the boating season, so be on the lookout!

First, the War of 1812, which provided the country with many of its lasting symbols of freedom including its national anthem and the USS Constitution, will come to life this month at bicentennial celebrations along the East Coast, because June marks its 200th anniversary. From Baltimore to Lake Erie and Boston to New Orleans, water provides a link to many battle sites, so boaters only need to hop on board and plan their voyage to travel back in time.

The USS Constitution got her nickname, ‘Old Ironsides’ during a battle off Nova Scotia with the HMS Guerriere, during which cannonballs were fired at its hull, and bounced off. The frigate is currently on display at the Charlestown Navy Yard outside Boston, MA. A parade of warships and tall ships will sail up the Atlantic coast throughout the month, stopping at four historic American ports and end in Boston as part of the city’s annual 4th of July celebration, when visitors can enjoy the USS Constitution’s annual turnaround and 21-gun salute. More information on festivities can be found at www.BostonHarborfest.com.

Now through June 19, Baltimore MD hosts its Star Spangled ‘Sailabration’ to mark the parade of tall ships and naval vessels arriving in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The Blue Angels perform their maneuvers over Fort McHenry on June 16 and 17, with concerts and fireworks planned for later in the evening. Additional information can be found at www.Starspangled200.org.

Here are some other places where you and your family or friends can enjoy firework shows from your Monterey, where the view is great, the lights are reflected on the water, and you get to enjoy a free light show in comfort:  http://www.boatingmag.com/how-to/view-4th-july-fireworks-your-boat-2012

And please follow these five tips to make the most of watching fireworks from your boat: http://www.boatingmag.com/blogs/4th-july/tips-viewing-4th-july-fireworks-your-boat