On a beautiful summer's day, accompanied by a brisk wind, the USS Constitution led a majestic procession of tall ships from across the world into Boston Harbor Tuesday.

The opening event of the Sail Boston 2000 convention, the Grand Parade of Sail showcased American and European ships as well as sailing vessels from as far away as New Zealand, Indonesia and India. More than a million spectators lined the harbor's shores to catch a glimpse from the golden age of sailing.

Enthusiasts crowded Fan Pier, Castle Island and almost every waterfront parcel of land to witness the spectacle. Thousands more watched from the sea; about 3,400 spectator boats were scattered along the route.

A 12-mph wind blowing out to sea, forced many of the ships to use their motors instead of moving by sail. Some ships moved in without the sails deployed, while others kept their sails up in the spirit of the event.

The procession of ships, ranging from the largest "Class A" vessels to numerous smaller ships followed the Constitution into the harbor beginning at 9:30 a.m. and continued until 3:45 p.m.

Maryellen Broderick of Lawrence, Mass., said she took a 5:30 a.m. train into Boston. Her efforts were well rewarded--she was sitting in the front row of seats near the Aquarium.

She said she was glad to see the Constitution out on the water. "It's pretty amazing to see this tall ship is still in service," she said.

Following Old Ironsides and the schooner America, the third ship to enter was the Danmark, which flew most of its sails as it entered the harbor. Crew members were standing on the masts high above the deck of the Danish ship as it cruised past awed spectators.