2027 Schedule and Rates

Classic Windjamming Adventure

Windjamming on the French means going out into jaw-droppingly beautiful Mid-Coast Maine on a traditional (National Historic Landmark) schooner for several days and nights at a time. It means being engaged with sail-handling, anchor cranking, meaningful conversation, and lots of great food cooked on a wood stove by the crew. It means sleeping onboard a beautifully maintained antique boat in your own cozy cabin, followed by lovely mornings on deck with coffee or tea in hand. No better place in the world to read a book, if you want a break from enjoying the view, the food, the sailing, and the company. We’ll sail the breezes in pursuit of Lobster Bake Island and an awesome place to drop anchor so we can watch the sun set and the stars come out!

Before modern roads, Coasting Schooners or “Windjammers" (including the French) delivered everyday essentials to every cluster of people along the coast and islands where roads didn’t reach. Now we use that same schooner and skillset (plus some modern amenities) more than 150 years later, to explore the same coastal island towns and too-rarely seen places that we Mainers just love to show off!

The other available trips that have a theme will be very similar to this experience that we have to offer, just with something specific planned for while we’re out there!

Sailing and Hiking

These trips are a wonderful combination of sailing and exploring. Guests will get to explore some of the great hiking trails we have discovered. After or before sailing each day, we’ll take advantage of the long June days and head ashore for a hike. Hikes of different lengths and levels can be arranged. All hiking is optional.

Photography with Justin

Whether you shoot with a phone or a DSLR, photographer and educator Justin Murray will have practical tips for you to elevate your skills, and capture the moments and scenery as we sail. Justinmurrayphotography.com

Windjammer Gam

One evening we’ll raft up with other Maine Windjammers for an evening of music and sea time camaraderie. Bring your camera, and pick up some techniques from our guest professional photographers: Bob Jenks and Jim Kipfer. This is a unique opportunity to tour and photograph the windjammers up close.

Lighthouse Cruises

We'll make an effort to sail close up to some of midcoast Maine's beautiful lighthouses offering guests great photo opportunities. We will try to visit a few ashore as well.

Windjamming and Kayaking

One morning guests will have the optional opportunity to kayak among the hundreds of protected islands between Deer Isle and Isle au Haut. You’ll find the paddling phenomenal among these islands. Experienced Maine kayaking guides will lead us on this paddle, give lessons to beginner kayakers, and tailor the length of the course to the skill level of the group. You’ll have the option to stop for an island stroll as well.

Race Week

Maine's Windjammers and other tall ships meet to participate in an exciting day of racing. Get involved in sail handling and strategy, or just sit back and enjoy the sight of these majestic tallships racing under full sail.

Music Festival Week

Midweek we'll sail to Swan's Island to attend the Sweet Chariot Music Festival, a gathering only accessible by boat! This evening show features performers from all over the U.S. www.sweetchariotmusicfestival.com.

Camden Windjammer Festival

French participates in a parade of sail as schooners return to Camden Friday evening. You'll have the best seat in town for enjoying the schooner crew talent show, fireworks over Camden Harbor, and other festivities in town. Guests disembark Saturday after breakfast. Festival Website: www.camdensnowbowl.com/cwf/.

Knit Along with The Cashmere Goat

Join a friendly goup of knitters of all levels, for a sailing-themed knit-along with The Cashmere Goat. Pick up some new crafting skills, and share your skills with your shipmates.

WoodenBoat Rendezvous

The French joins other Windjammers for one last gathering in Brooklin, Maine, home to WoodenBoat Magazine and School. This is a great opportunity to photograph these vessels close up under full sail, tour the WoodenBoat school and see some really cool wooden boats.