Experience a hands-on 2-hour sailing adventure on Penobscot Bay aboard a charming wooden schooner. Perfect for families and beginners alike, this memorable afternoon cruise from Kittery offers fun, education, and breathtaking coastal views.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; primarily seated with light physical activity like steering and knot tying.
Wildlife
History
Kittery’s maritime heritage dates back to the early 1600s, critical in shipbuilding and coastal trade.
Conservation
The Schooner Charm promotes low-impact sailing and educates guests about protecting Maine’s fragile coastal ecosystem.
The Schooner Charm
Experience a hands-on 2-hour sailing adventure on Penobscot Bay aboard a charming wooden schooner. Perfect for families and beginners alike, this memorable afternoon cruise from Kittery offers fun, education, and breathtaking coastal views.
The Schooner Charm is a family-focused sailing operation based in Kittery, Maine, offering classic schooner experiences on Penobscot Bay. The vessel Charm is a charming wooden sailing ship that hosts a range of public sails and private charters designed for families, groups, and special events. Crews welcome guests of all ages to participate in hands-on activities such as raising sails, steering the helm, and learning essential sailing knots, creating memorable and educational outings.
Public offerings include the Sunset Sail, Afternoon Cruise, and Morning Cruise. The Afternoon Cruise is a two-hour sailing that emphasizes interactive participation; the Morning Cruise invites guests to start the day aboard ship with coffee or tea and optional helm time; the Sunset Sail showcases Penobscot Bay’s evening light and is suited to family groups. Private Sailing Charters are available from June through October and are tailored for weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, and other intimate gatherings. Private charters can include professional video options to capture events.
Safety and guest experience are priorities. The Schooner Charm operates with a trained crew familiar with the local waters of Penobscot Bay and the Kittery area. Vessel capacity, safety briefings, and equipment follow maritime standards appropriate for coastal day sails. Booking information and schedules are available through The Schooner Charm’s public listings and reservation channels.
Young sailors are encouraged to learn seamanship fundamentals under crew supervision, making trips educational as well as recreational. Guests should consult the booking page for accessibility details, departure times, and ticketing policies, and reservation information.
Location
Kittery, Maine
Sails on Penobscot Bay
Vessel
Charm (wooden schooner)
Classic wooden sailing ship
Afternoon Cruise
2-hour
Hands-on sailing experience
Private Charters
June–October
Weddings, parties & corporate events
Check schedules and secure spots for Morning, Afternoon, or Sunset sails — or book a private charter in Kittery, Maine.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Boat decks can be slippery; sturdy shoes will keep you safe and comfortable.
Bring a Light Jacket
Afternoon sea breezes can be cool even in summer, so pack an extra layer.
Apply Sunscreen
Exposure to sun reflects off the water, increasing the risk of sunburn.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water or purchase onboard to stay refreshed throughout your trip.
Non-slip Boat Shoes
Keep secure footing on wet and moving decks.
Windbreaker Jacket
Protects against cool winds and unpredictable spring weather.
spring
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn from direct and reflected sunlight.
summer
Travel Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the cruise.