Sailing Salem Sound Aboard Fame of Salem
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.
Overview
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 Sails from Marblehead!
Celebrate REV250 with a sail on the Schooner FAME
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join FAME for a unique 90-minute sailing experience in Marblehead, celebrating our nation's 250th anniversary. Engage with the crew, raise the sails, and learn about the historic 1775 naval battle while enjoying stunning views of Salem Sound. This authentic adventure promises memorable moments on the water!
Rates
- All tickets $50
Sorry, children under 5 not allowed.
Duration
Approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes
To celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary, FAME will be visiting Marblehead the weekend of Sept. 20-21. Both mornings we'll offer a 90-minute public sail from 10:15-11:45.
- FAME is the top-rated boat tour on Salem Sound and one of the premier activities on the North Shore!
- Hear about the 1775 naval engagement between the Hannah and the Nautilus!
- Help raise the sails or just enjoy your time on the water. Beer, wine, soft drinks and snacks are available for purchase.
What happens? Where do we go?
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This is a SAIL, so our route is subject to wind and weather. We sail as far and as fast as we can given the conditions, and our goal is always to shut off the engine and give our guests an authentic sailing experience.
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Guests have the opportunity to raise sails, take the tiller, learn knots, and engage with our knowledgable crew about the schooner, her interesting history, and the many islands, lighthouses, forts, and other sights of Salem Sound.
What We Are NOT
- A booze cruise. We do offer alcoholic beverages, but that is not our focus!
- A fully-narrated trip. No recordings or PA announcements! Our captains and crew are very knowledgable about the area's maritime history and the sights we'll see out on the Sound. The captain will give a talk and fire a small cannon. The crew will move about the schooner engaging passengers. If you have a specific question, ASK!
- ADA accessible. Sorry. Since this not our regular dock, boarding is likely to be an ad hoc process. Those with mobility issues should pass.
What to Bring
- Sensible (flat) shoes!
- Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. It's cooler on the water, so bring a jacket or sweatshirt.
- Beer, wine, soft drinks and snacks are available for purchase.
- NO coolers, sorry — there is not enough room on deck for everyone to bring one.
- NO BYOB. We have a liquor license, so it is against state law to bring your own alcohol on board. No flasks. No nips.
- NO animals apart from service dogs with paperwork.
Adventure Tips
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.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern Gulls skimming the water surface and nesting on nearby islands.
- Harbor seals occasionally hauled out along the rocky shores of Salem Sound.
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.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
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 specific
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn from reflective water and open sky exposure.
summer|spring|fall specific
Sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water for clear vision and eye protection.
summer|spring|fall specific