Tall ships to arrive in Boston this week

BOSTON—A fleet of tall ships from around the world sails into Boston this week.

The five-day visit, which almost fell victim to budget constraints, is expected to draw thousands of visitors to the city’s waterfront.

Organizers said 12 of the sailing vessels will be open for public tours Thursday through Sunday at Charlestown Navy Yard, the Boston Fish Pier and Seaport World Trade Center. Other ships plan to dock privately.

Boston Mayor Thomas Menino had threatened to bar public viewing unless Sail Boston, the sponsor of the event, agreed to pay the city for security costs, including police overtime.

Menino and Gov. Deval Patrick eventually brokered a deal that includes a $1 million contribution by the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority to cover security costs.