Historic Hannah-Nautilus Sail with Fame of Salem
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate mobility required for boarding
Overview
Step aboard the schooner FAME in Salem, MA, and sail the historic waters where the 1775 battle between the HANNAH and HMS NAUTILUS took place. Experience expert storytelling and maritime heritage on this unique nautical adventure.
Hannah-Nautilus Sail
Visit the site of one of America's first naval engagements!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join Captain Mike Rutstein aboard the schooner FAME for a captivating journey through history as you sail the very waters where the 250th anniversary of the battle between General Washington's HANNAH and HMS NAUTILUS took place. Experience the rich storytelling of this historic encounter and its lasting legacy.
Rates
- All tickets - $75
Sorry, children under 5 not allowed.
Duration
Approx. 1 hour and 40 minutes
October marks the 250th anniversary of the battle between General George Washington's hired vessel HANNAH and HMS NAUTILUS. Capt. Mike Rutstein will sail the schooner FAME into the waters where the battle was fought and talk us through every step of the historic encounter, as well as the aftermath of the battle, the differing historical accounts, and finally the efforts to replicate the HANNAH which led, indirectly, to the building of FAME in 2003.
Handicapped Access
- Sorry, but the schooner is not ADA compliant. If you have questions about your ability to board the schooner, watch a video of our boarding process at https://www.facebook.com/schooner.fame/videos/190380926890023
What to Bring
- Sensible (flat) shoes!
- 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; flat shoes ensure stability during sailing.
Bring Layers for Coastal Wind
Even in summer, breezes off the Atlantic can be cool—pack a jacket or sweatshirt.
No BYOB Alcohol Allowed
The schooner holds a liquor license; outside alcohol including coolers and flasks is prohibited.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Boarding starts 5 minutes before departure; arriving early helps with a smooth check-in.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seals lounging on rocky shores
- Migratory shorebirds in spring and fall
History
The October 1775 battle between the HANNAH and HMS NAUTILUS was one of America’s earliest naval engagements, pivotal in asserting colonial maritime resistance.
Conservation
Efforts by Fame of Salem include maintaining the schooner's wooden hull and rigging using sustainable methods to preserve maritime heritage without harming local ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Flat Non-Slip Shoes
Ensures safe footing on the schooner’s deck.
Windbreaker or Light Jacket
Protects against cool coastal winds, especially in early season.
spring specific
Sunglasses and Hat
Helps shade eyes from bright sun on the open water.
summer specific
Camera
Capture historic scenes and maritime views during the sail.