⛵ Ready for the Adventure of Your Dreams?

Focus on All Things New England! [New England Focus Logo]( Slow Travel on a Maine Windjammer: Easier Than You May Think [Logo]( Sponsored by: [The Maine Windjammer Association]( [Schooner Lewis R. French] Schooner Lewis R. French glides across Penobscot Bay. She takes 21 guests and is a member of the Maine Windjammer Association. Photo: Ben Keller In our fast-paced world, where political campaigns dominate the 24-hour news cycle and screens demand our constant attention, many of us yearn for simplicity and authenticity – experiences that rejuvenate the spirit and speak to the soul. Enter the [Maine Windjammer Association offering]( sailing cruises that beckon you to step back in time and embrace the beauty of slow travel and the magic of human connection. Imagine standing on the deck of a historic schooner, feeling the rhythmic creak of the wooden hull beneath your feet and inhaling the salty tang of the sea air. As you sail along Maine's rugged coastline, time seems to stand still, guided only by the ebb and flow of the tides – and perhaps, the dinner bell. For the true beauty of a Windjammer cruise lies not only in the stunning scenery and exhilarating sailing, but also in the chance to disconnect from the digital noise and reconnect with life's simple pleasures. Free from constant notifications and endless scrolling, you'll rediscover the joy of being present in the moment and reconnecting with nature, people, and yourself. As you explore secluded coves, hike along island beaches, or simply lounge on deck and watch the world go by, you'll appreciate the benefits of slow travel – fully immersing yourself in your surroundings, forging meaningful connections with shipmates, and cultivating a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Whether sharing stories over a hearty meal, working together to hoist the sails, or simply enjoying each other's company under the stars, you'll form bonds that last a lifetime. [Maine's Island Beaches] Shore trips include an all-you-can-eat lobster bake and time to enjoy Maine’s island beaches. Photo: Capshore Photography in partnership with Maine’s Midcoast and Islands region. But it's not just your mind and soul that benefit – your body will thank you too. With delicious, locally-sourced meals prepared onboard by our talented chefs and time well-spent outside sailing, rowing, swimming, and exploring, you'll feel refreshed and revitalized from the inside out. And while it may sound difficult to plan an authentic getaway or intimidating to step outside your comfort zone to embark on a sailing adventure, you may be surprised by how easy it is to do and how quickly guests adapt to being on board. Here’s what you should know: Flexible Cruise Options: The [nine member vessels]( of the Maine Windjammer Association offer cruises of different lengths, and even a short three-night trip can be enough to feel the benefits of unplugging. Whether you're seeking a quick weekend getaway or a longer journey to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Maine's coastline, there's a trip to fit your schedule. The majority of cruises are between three and six-nights long, but [Schooner Mary Day offers a one-night “staycation”]( Labor Day weekend and [Schooner American Eagle offers a nine-night Downeast trip]( which sails, you guessed it, further Downeast along Maine’s Bold Coast. [Schooner J. & E. Rigin] A group photo from a recent trip aboard Schooner J. & E. Riggin Trips for all: Windjammer cruises appeal to all ages, fostering a diverse and inclusive community onboard. From retired couples to solo travelers to families looking for something the whole family can get involved in, the decks welcome a variety of guests. The intergenerational dynamic enriches the onboard experience as passengers of different ages come together. With a minimum guest age typically set at 12 years old, the atmosphere strikes a balance between relaxation and exploration for everyone. Even teenagers torn from their screens have been known to smile in the hands-on, screens-off environment, embracing sailing activities and forming genuine connections. If you’re interested in a trip specifically geared to families, consider [Windjammer Angelique’s family cruise, July 17-20](, or [Schooner Heritage’s three-night Father’s Day weekend trip](, June 13-16. (Note: a few specially designated cruises and private charters allow for kids under 12.) [Start planning your Maine Windjammer vacation!]( Use our cruise finder feature to see all cruise options or to request a packet of brochures from all nine member vessels. [Find My Trip!]( SPONSORED [Freshly baked muffins, breads and pies] Freshly baked morning muffins, breads and pies overfloweth on the Maine Windjammers. Photo courtesy Schooner Stephen Taber Culinary Delights abound: Guests are constantly amazed by the quality and quantity of food that our chefs prepare. From freshly caught seafood to locally-sourced ingredients, our chefs work tirelessly to create unforgettable dining experiences. You'll be amazed that it’s all coming out of a compact galley on a simple wood-fired or kerosene cook stove. (And, rest assured, every trip includes an all-you-can-eat lobster bake!) Interested in culinary explorations? Check out [Schooner Ladona’s 4-night culinary explorations cruise, June 3-7](, [Schooner Stephen Taber’s Wine, Dine and Chocolate cruise, May 23-27](, and [Schooner J. & E. Riggin’s June 24-28 Craft Beers of Maine trip](. So many islands! Guests are often surprised by just how many little islands there are. The Maine coast is dotted with countless picturesque islands which are only accessibly by boat. From secluded coves to charming fishing villages, every harbor along the way offers a new adventure. What’s even better, all these islands protect our waters from the ocean’s swell, meaning the bays stay flat and seasickness is rarely a problem. If you’d like to spend a little more time ashore consider [Schooner Lewis R. French’s Sailing and Hiking trip, May 28th -June 1st](. [Windjammer Angelique achored off of Burnt Island] Windjammer Angelique anchored off of Burnt Island in Penobscot Bay. Photo: Capshore Photography in partnership with Maine’s Midcoast and Islands region. In the end, it all comes down to connection: there’s a bond formed between shipmates­ – guests, crew and hosts. In just a few days, you'll find yourself forging friendships and developing a deep affection for your floating home away from home. And as you share stories, laughter, and unforgettable moments together, you'll come to realize that the true magic of a Windjammer cruise lies not just in the destinations you visit, but in the people you meet along the way. So, if you're ready to escape the chaos of modern life and embark on a journey of discovery and rejuvenation, [check out our complete schedule of cruise offerings]( to start planning. [Fleet Facts] [Ad-300x250]( SPONSORED [New England]( [TRAVEL]( [FOOD]( [LIVING]( [WEEKENDS WITH YANKEE TV]( [YANKEE MAGAZINE]( [SHOP]( [Facebook]( [Instagram]( [Pinterest]( You received this email because you signed for updates from [NewEngland.com](. 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