One of the most beautiful sights you will see
on a 
Whether you are planning a Maine windjammer
vacation that includes a week long excursion Downeast, or hoping
to
set sail for just a few hours aboard one of these beautiful ships, you
will find that cruising schedules are varied and accommodating.
The chilly waters of the north Atlantic, combined
with the warmer air temperatures of the spring, summer and fall
seasons, tend to produce early morning and night time fog across the
Gulf of Maine.
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Maine Vacations Home: Maine Windjammer Cruises
Maine Windjammer Cruises
What is a windjammer? Simply put, a windjammer is a type of sailing ship. Built in the late nineteenth century, and the early twentieth century, these multi-masted boats were the grandest of cargo sailing ships. Today, the Maine windjammer cruise ports of Penobscot Bay are home to many of these ships. some of which are National Landmarks. These boats that have been lovingly restored to provide splendid accommodations for short-term, or long-term, seafaring adventures. The tall-masted schooners offer spectacular sailing along the Maine coast and among the thousands of inhabited and uninhabited islands that dot the chilly northern Atlantic waters. However, as you sail the cruising grounds of the Gulf of Maine, you won't be alone... Off the side rails you are likely to spot seals and porpoises, along with humpback whales. And... Since many of these islands are located in the north Atlantic migratory pathway, hundreds of seldom seen bird species pass through this pristine area semi-annually, some of them nesting and breeding on the islands throughout the summer months. You may also be interested in: Booking a Maine Windjammer Vacation or Cruise
Choices will include weekend cruises, three day, four day, five day, and six day outings. And, when time is short, a lobster bake cruise among the islands, or a romantic sunset sail, are no less splendid! The 12 schooner fleet of the Maine Windjammers Association (MWA) also offers special "theme" cruises each season. You can join like-minded mates on wine tasting cruises, lighthouse cruises, a Fundy Bay cruise, a combination hiking and sailing cruise, foliage cruises, and many others. Or, take to the seas on a Maine windjammer charter - reserving the boat for a wedding celebration, a family reunion, or a corporate party. Maine windjammer cruises are extremely popular. Regardless of the type of cruise you are planning - advance ticket purchase is advised, and in some cases, required. Angelique Grace
Bailey Lewis
R. French Mary
Day Mercantile Mistress American
Eagle Heritage Isaac
H. Evans J.
& E. Riggin Nathaniel
Bowditch Stephen
Taber Victory
Chimes Schooner
Timberwind Setting Sail - What to BringAs the saying goes... If you don't like the weather in New England, stick around, it'll change. That adage could not be truer than when referring to the weather off the coast of Maine.
Fortunately, on most days the fog eventually lifts, leading to wonderfully warm temperatures. However... This type of weather pattern can make it difficult when packing for a sailing adventure. The bottom line - dress in layers. Wearing a short sleeve t-shirt as your bottom layer will allow you to shed to a comfortable level as the day warms. What else will you need? Since most overnight cruises are all-inclusive, meaning that meals are provided, you will need to worry only about bringing clothing and a few other personal items. Obviously a day trip, or a sail of only a few hours, requires much less gear. Regardless, everything carried aboard should be in soft-sided bags, NOT in luggage that has a hard shell. Remember, to keep it casual, AND that space is limited...
And... Any special needs items that you may require. If you have a question as to what you should bring, especially if the item is large, call ahead to ask what the Captain advises. Enjoy your Maine windjammer cruise - there will not be another like it! |
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