Maine Windjamming Facts

WHO:

• The Maine Windjammer Association includes twelve traditional tall ships, ranging in size from 64 to 132 feet on deck. All of the vessels are privately owned and operated.
• Each windjammer carries between 20 and 44 passengers and 4-10 crew members. Windjammer cruises are for people of all ages (except small children and infants).

WHERE:

• The windjammer fleet hails from the ports of Rockland, Rockport and Camden, located in the mid-coast region of Maine.
• Transportation is available via the Portland International Jetport, with limousine service to the Rockland/Camden area. Commuter air service to the area is also available from Boston. Bus service is available from Boston and Portland. All of the vessels offer free parking.
• The Maine coast, with more than 3,000 islands, is considered one of the best and most beautiful sailing areas in the world. Each night the windjammers drop anchor in a peaceful port or harbor where passengers may go ashore and explore.

WHAT:

• Passengers may participate in all aspects of windjamming, including hoisting sails, taking a turn at the wheel, navigating, or helping out in the galley if they choose.
• "Schooner-cooked" meals are served family style. Menu items include fresh seafood, roasts, garden salads, chowder and homemade breads and desserts. A lobster bake on a Maine island is featured on every six-day trip and on most three-day cruises.
• Accommodations are simple, consisting of single, double, triple and quad cabins, all with comfortable mattresses, fresh linens and plenty of warm blankets. All of the vessels offer running water and hot showers.
• Seasickness is rarely a problem, due to the easy motion of the vessels and the protected waters they cruise.
• All vessels undergo rigorous U.S. Coast Guard inspections and carry ship-to-shore radios and other electronic navigational devices.

WHEN:

• The vessels sail the coast of Maine from late May to mid-October.

HOW:

• Brochures are available by calling 1-800-807-WIND or writing Maine Windjammer Association, P.O. Box 1144P, Blue Hill, Maine 04614. Or email us at windjam@acadia.net.
• Windjammer vacations are affordable: three- to six-day cruises range from $350 to $775 per person, all meals included. Charter groups receive additional discounts.