Sailing off the coast of Maine is a fleet of traditional “tall ships,” individually owned and operated sailboats that offer a major twist on the family vacation cruise. There are no fancy restaurants, no drop-off kids clubs and no midnight chocolate buffets. Instead, these historically interesting and unique sailing vessels provide a dose of nature sprinkled with a dash of history, along with lots of wholesome family fun.
Each ship is different: different size, different crew, different vibe. And, while most windjammers accommodate teens and up, there are several that specialize in family cruises for children as young as five. Onboard and off, kids will find plenty to do, from tying knots and cranking ice cream to skipping stones and picking berries. These special family trips include more time ashore for exploring tidal pools and making sand castles, plus kid-friendly menus. "I-Spy" takes on a whole new meaning when it's porpoises and seals you're spotting. Guests of all ages are always welcome to help with steering, raising sails or even polishing brass.
Windjamming days are spent sailing spectacular Penobscot Bay, where there are plenty of shipboard activities to enjoy such as hauling sails, navigating, whale watching or just relaxing with a good book. Afternoons are punctuated by stops at uninhabited islands or tiny fishing villages where guests are free to explore, collect wild blueberries, pop into boutiques and galleries or take a look at working fishing harbors. At night, families stargaze, sing and swap stories or go for a moonlit row.
A cruise aboard a Maine windjammer is a unique way for a family to bond. There are quiet moments when a parent and child can help make a plate of brownies or play a round of Scrabble. There are thrilling times when someone catches a fish, the cannons are fired or a passenger takes a dip in the chilly Atlantic! Sailing is not strenuous or competitive, and yet there is always plenty of excitement if you want it.
Because they are individually owned, you can do your own research, or contact the Maine Windjammer Association to find a ship that suits your needs and desires. Trips range from weekend getaways to six-day adventures and prices range depending on ship, accomdations and length of travel.
