Step aboard the Schooner Fame for a 90-minute sailing experience on Salem Sound. Raise the sails, steer the ship, and uncover the naval history of 1775 while cruising the dramatic Marblehead coast.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most adults in reasonable physical condition; requires basic mobility for boarding and some light physical activity during sailing.
Wildlife
History
The 1775 naval engagement between the Hannah and the Nautilus near this area marked one of America's earliest naval battles during the Revolutionary War.
Conservation
Salem Sound is a protected maritime environment with ongoing efforts to maintain clean waters and preserve habitats critical to native seabirds and marine life.
Fame of Salem
Step aboard the Schooner Fame for a 90-minute sailing experience on Salem Sound. Raise the sails, steer the ship, and uncover the naval history of 1775 while cruising the dramatic Marblehead coast.
Fame of Salem operates the historic schooner FAME from Salem, Massachusetts. The organization offers a range of public sails and private charters that highlight New England maritime history, coastal scenery, and hands-on sailing instruction.
Public offerings include the Gloucester Schooner Festival Fly-By, a scenic 5.5-hour sail from Salem to Gloucester featuring the Parade of Sail and views of Baker's Island and local lighthouses. Shorter options include 90-minute Marblehead sails and seasonal sunset sails that invite guests to raise sails and learn from the crew. The Hannah-Nautilus Sail, led by Captain Mike Rutstein aboard FAME, focuses on the 1775 engagement between HANNAH and HMS NAUTILUS and its local historic context.
Private charters accommodate up to 40 guests and are suitable for weddings, corporate events, and group celebrations, with options to customize food and beverage arrangements. Onboard amenities typically include light snacks and beverages; the crew provides safety briefings, sailing instruction, and narrated history. Schedules and availability are seasonal and subject to weather and festival calendars. Reservations are recommended for public sails and required for private charters. Check the vessel's calendar before booking.
Tours Offered
6
Public sails and private charters
Max Capacity
40 guests
Full-boat private charters
Home Port
Salem, MA
Sails in Salem Sound
Trip Lengths
90–330 min
Short sails to extended voyages
Book public tickets or a private charter today for an authentic Salem Sound sailing experience; seasonal dates often fill quickly.
Wear Flat, Non-Slip Shoes
Deck surfaces can be slippery; sensible footwear ensures safety and comfort while moving around the schooner.
Bring a Light Jacket
Even in summer, coastal breezes can be cool—layering protects against chill and wind on the water.
Avoid Bringing Personal Alcohol
The vessel has a liquor license and prohibits outside alcohol; purchasing onboard helps comply with local laws.
Be Prepared for Boarding Conditions
Boarding involves an informal dock setup and may be challenging for those with mobility limitations.
Flat-soled shoes
Provides grip and stability on wet or moving deck surfaces.
Windbreaker or light jacket
Protects against coastal breezes and fluctuating temperatures.
spring|summer|fall
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn from reflective water and open sky exposure.
summer|spring|fall
Sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water for clear vision and eye protection.
summer|spring|fall