Maine Windjammer Cruises

SEASON: mid-May thru mid-Oct. 4 hour, weekend, 3, 4, & 5 day trips. Group charters available.

The National Landmark schooners of Maine Windjammer Cruises have been providing sailing adventures on Penobscot Bay since 1936. Explore the rugged coast of Maine aboard an authentic sail powered cargo vessel from the late 1800s. Help raise the sails, take a turn at the wheel or just relax. View historic lighthouses and native wildlife. Anchor each evening in an island fishing village or quiet cove. Enjoy wonderful meals cooked on a woodstove and Lobster Bakes on the beach. Call or email us for a detailed brochure and additional information.

Welcome aboard Maine Windjammer Cruises National Landmark schooners, Grace Bailey and Mercantile. After serving prominent careers in the coastal cargo trade, these turn of the century tall ships became part of the first and oldest fleet of historic vessels offering sailing vacations in America. Established in 1936, it has been the cornerstone of the industry for over 70 years. Our company’s innovation of taking passengers aboard working schooners is responsible for the preservation of many vessels. It also has given tens of thousands the opportunity to enjoy the romance of sailing on a tall ship.

We are committed to giving our passengers not only the finest, but also the most genuine traditional sailing experience available today. Enjoy the serenity and camaraderie of a simpler time aboard our century-old sailing ships. The power of nature as she moves us across the water is an uplifting, almost spiritual experience.

The Grace Bailey & Mercantile, have been lovingly restored. Their interiors show off massive timbers and exceptional craftsmanship. The warm glow of varnished wood and unique features of each cabin offer an atmosphere of comfort. The large open galleys with heavy wooden tables sculpted to fit the space and surrounding comfortable settees that invite you to linger. The galley is your dining room, living room, and family room, a welcoming place to eat, read, play cards, or just relax. Cargo holds have been handsomely divided into private compartments. All have a window or porthole, standing headroom and nearby head. There are a limited number of private single cabins and Pullman berths.

Our schooners offer an opportunity to cruise among the spruce-clad islands of Maine in a convenient, exciting, and historic way. They sail with no inboard power, as they did a hundred years ago, with wind and canvas still providing this unique way to travel in the 21st century.

Life aboard a windjammer is a glimpse of the past, a refreshing escape from the pressures of our modern world. Nature’s winds and tides determine your day’s events. There is no set itinerary.

Our third schooner, the Mistress is a smaller, more modern version of her sister ships. With the lines of the old coastal schooners and traditionally rigged, she accommodates only six guests for a more intimate experience. It’s almost like having your own yacht. Each of her three private, cabins has its own head, sink, and private companionway from the deck. Delicious meals are served in the tradition of the Grace Bailey and the Mercantile

With four cruise lengths offered each week we have a trip to meet your schedule. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a week-long excursion Down East, you’re sure to enjoy the splendor of windjamming off the Maine Coast. Pre-Season specials and Autumn Sailing and Foliage Cruises offer the best value.

During the Pre-Season, off-season rates coupled with long days and uncrowded anchorages offer the best value of the season. Although the weather is cooler, we strongly recommend this time of the year. Everything is fresh, and the windjammers, anxious to get started on a new season, are often the only vessels on the bay. The sailing is great, and enthusiasm is high.

Six day cruises are offered exclusively in the Pre-Season. These trips have it all - long days to sail and explore, a shore-side lobster bake, and lots of time to relax and unwind.

On a Five Day Cruise, relax and enjoy the beautiful Maine coast in all its splendor. Each evening brings you to a new and varied destination. Every week is different: that’s why people come back year after year. Enjoy our real New England Lobster Bake-cooked over a driftwood fire on a deserted Island - steamed lobsters, clams, corn, hot dogs, cheeses, salads and vegetable buffet , topped off with roasted marshmallows and s’mores. On your last night aboard, you’ll enjoy the famous Captain’s Barbecue, featuring steak, ribs and chicken.

The Four Day Cruise starts midweek and has many of the advantages of our five-day trips. There’s time to relax and explore our beautiful coast. All four-day cruises feature our New England Lobster Bake.

Three Day Cruise is an excellent introduction to the world of windjamming. Board Sunday evening and meet your new shipmates. After a hearty breakfast Monday, we get underway for our short adventure exploring the Islands of Maine. This cruise can be a grand change of pace and certainly the highlight of a longer Maine vacation. A Lobster Feast is included in all three-day cruises.

The Weekend Cruise is designed for those with limited time. We will whisk you away Friday afternoon for an adventure so relaxing and unique that you will be refreshed and energized. All weekend cruises include a Lobster Feast on board.

Autumn and Fall Foliage is a very special time of the year. Considered somewhat off-season, more and more people are finding this the perfect time to vacation in Maine. The beauty of the fall colors adds a new dimension to already breathtaking scenery. Crisp, clear days with brisk winds offer the best sailing of the season.

Regardless of when you come or how long you sail, you’re going to love it! Take a look at our schedule and pick a cruise that’s perfect for you.

Our vessels are available for Private Charger and make the ideal venue for weddings, reunions and other group gatherings. Nonprofit groups have used the Grace Bailey and Mercantile for fundraising trips, and professional photographers regularly sail with us to take advantage of the special photo ops our cruises provide. Scouting groups, military units, summer campers, foreign exchange students, and specialized travel groups have also enjoyed trips with us.

Day trips are also possible on Wednesdays and Sundays. In the pre-season, they may be available for additional dates. Most trips are from noon to 4 p.m. We can carry from 29 to 49 guests on each of the big boats or smaller parties on the Mistress. Please call for availability and prices.