Fall Color Getaway Sailing Adventure in Rockland, Maine
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate fitness level to manage moving on a boat and engaging in light physical activity like assisting with ship duties.
Overview
Discover Maine’s autumn beauty aboard the historic schooner J. & E. Riggin. Enjoy colorful fall landscapes, cozy evenings, and fun seasonal activities on this one-of-a-kind sailing adventure.
Fall Color Getaway
Enjoy fall on the Maine Coast
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the vibrant fall colors of Maine aboard the historic J. & E. Riggin schooner. Enjoy cozy evenings, delicious meals, and engaging activities like pumpkin carving and mulled cider. This unique sailing adventure combines breathtaking landscapes with the charm of a classic vessel, creating unforgettable memories as the season closes.
Crisp cool breezes and breath-taking colors
Departure Date & Rate
October 4 - October 8, 2025: 4-Day / 4-Night Adventure Per person: $1235
September 30 - October 4, 2026: 4-Day / 4-Night Adventure Per person: $1365
Ages 12+
Boarding and Returning
Please note, we board every trip the evening of your chosen departure date between 5 and 6 p.m.
We will have you back at the dock before noon on the last day of your trip.
The Cruise
Fall in Maine is synonymous with stunning landscapes in fiery hues as the leaves change colors and cool crisp breezes that make for some outstanding sailing!
Join us for our final trip of the season with fantastic sailing days, and cozy evenings in the warmth of the galley. Participate in fall activities like carving pumpkins and enjoy mulled cider aboard.
After our return to the dock, stick around for one final meal and join the crew to help us to take the sails off of the boat for the winter!
The Ship
The J. & E. Riggin, a beautiful, historic two-masted schooner. She was designated a National Historic Monument in 1991. She is 89′ long on deck, 120′ overall, 23′ wide and draws 7′ with her centerboard up. She was built in 1927 as an oyster dredger and rebuilt for passenger sail in 1977.
The Riggin is fully equipped with GPS, radar, and radio. She meets all Coast Guard requirements for construction and safety equipment. Certified to carry passengers, she fully meets all requirements for stability and watertight integrity. The Riggin has no inboard engine. Her sixteen-foot diesel-powered yawl boat can be used during calm spells for maneuvering into or out of tight harbors.
Includes
- All meals (excluding dinner on boarding night)
- Linens including fresh sheets, warm blankets, a quilt or comforter, pillows, and towels
- Locally made, small-batch soap
- Coffee (regular and decaf), tea, and hot chocolate
- Ice and an ice chest are available for passenger use
Things to Note
- Sink with cold running water in each cabin
- Window that opens for fresh air and natural light
- A 12V outlet & 2 USB ports
- Reading light over each bunk
- Must be able to navigate a ladder and stairs
- Toilets (“heads”) are located above deck
- Hot freshwater shower available
- A non-smoking vessel
- There is a $20 per vehicle parking fee (covers the length of your trip)
- Gratuity is not included
- A Ship Store is available on board
- Alcohol is not included on this cruise; however, you are welcome to bring it with you
Adventure Tips
Dress in Layers
Bring warm, breathable layers to stay comfortable during cool mornings and chilly evenings on the water.
Wear Non-Slip Shoes
Choose footwear with good traction to safely move around the deck of the schooner.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water even in cool weather to stay energized throughout your sailing adventure.
Protect Your Electronics
Keep cameras and phones in waterproof cases or bags to guard against splashes and moisture.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals resting on nearby rocks
- Bald eagles soaring overhead during fall migration
History
The J. & E. Riggin is one of the last remaining windjammer schooners, preserving Maine’s rich maritime heritage through seasonal sailing tours.
Conservation
The schooner operates with eco-friendly practices, encouraging guests to minimize waste and protect coastal waters.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Portland, Maine
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Layered Clothing
Keeps you comfortable against cool breezes and changing temperatures onboard.
fall specific
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against wind and occasional spray from the water.
fall specific
Non-slip Deck Shoes
Provides grip and safety on wet, slippery surfaces of the deck.
Camera with Waterproof Case
Allows you to capture stunning fall scenery without worry of water damage.