A Guide to Maine Windjammer Cruises

There is something uniquely Maine about windjammer cruises. Maybe it’s because the state is home to the largest fleet of traditional tall ships in the Americas.

What is a windjammer?

Over 80 years ago, cruising was popularized by Capt. Frank Swift. He converted some aging cargo schooners into coastal cruisers that carried passengers on excursions. Today, windjammers are still generally schooners – many of which have been designated National Historic Landmarks. Some are retired cargo or fishing ships. Others are old racers with traditional rigging. A few are newer vessels built for the trade. These tall ships travel throughout Maine on excursions lasting from several hours to more than a week.

What is it like staying on a windjammer?

Unlike large cruise ships, windjammers have bunks and cozy cabins, not monster staterooms and 24-hour buffets. Windjammers are woody and compact below deck. Crew and guests live and work in close quarters. Guests should be prepared to climb up and down ladders and steep steps to get on and off the boat and to the lower decks. The ship’s galley and dining areas are like your kitchen at home – everybody mingles there. Despite the ship’s small kitchen and wood stove, expect a coveted culinary experience. Windjammer chefs are masters of improvisation and hospitality on-the-go, and they often utilize locally grown ingredients and freshly caught seafood for unforgettable feasts.

These traditionally rigged ships provide all sorts of ways to have fun and relax. Once on board, the crew will invite you to help raise the sails, yank the anchor off the sea floor and even steer the ship. Feeling lazy? That’s okay, too. Watch the breeze snap the sails. Count the sea birds. Take that second – no, third – cup of coffee up on deck with your new novel.

To truly experience a Maine windjammer, you must practice the art of traveling leisurely, at the pace the winds want you to go. Windjammer cruises are the perfect way to enjoy life, moment by moment. Simply pack your clothes and ditch your devices.

Ahhh.

Miss the office yet? We didn’t think so.

Where to book a windjammer cruise

To find your perfect multi-day windjammer cruise, visit the Maine Windjammer Association or Maine Windjammer Cruises. Most of their fleets are based out of Rockland or Camden. There are several day sails offered along the coast including Portland Schooner Co. in Portland, Schooner Surprise and Schooner Olad in Camden, and Downeast Windjammer Cruises in Bar Harbor.