Do I need to know how to knit to join the cruise?

No prior experience is necessary—expert instructors provide lessons for all skill levels.

What should I bring with me on the cruise?

Bring comfortable layered clothing, your knitting supplies if you have favorites, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.

Are meals included during the cruise?

Light refreshments and snacks are provided onboard, but full meals are typically not included.

Is the schooner suitable for those prone to seasickness?

The J. & E. Riggin sails in relatively calm coastal waters, but it’s best to consult your doctor if you have sea sickness concerns.

How many people are on the cruise?

The cruises are private and intimate, usually limited to small groups for a personalized experience.

Can I book the cruise outside of the summer season?

Yes, cruises run seasonally from spring through fall with occasional winter workshops.

Maine Knitting Cruises in Rockland for Creative Retreats

Experience a one-of-a-kind adventure aboard the historic schooner J. & E. Riggin with Maine Knitting Cruises, located in beautiful Rockland, Maine. This unique retreat combines the tranquility of sailing on the Atlantic coast with the cozy, creative atmosphere of a knitting workshop. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the craft or an experienced knitter looking to refine your skills, expert instructors are on hand to guide you through various projects amidst stunning sea views and fresh ocean breeze. The blend of maritime history and artistic expression creates a relaxing and inspiring environment that encourages connection—not only with your craft but also with fellow participants. Beyond knitting, the schooner offers breathtaking coastal scenery, including lighthouses, rocky islands, and seabirds, perfect for photographers and nature lovers. With small private groups, the experience remains intimate and personalized, ensuring each day is filled with joyful moments, new skills, and peaceful sails along Maine’s picturesque coastline. This adventure is perfect for those seeking a calm, enriching escape that nourishes creativity in an unforgettable natural setting.

About The Schooner J. & E. Riggin

The Schooner J. & E. Riggin is a historic two-masted schooner based in Rockland, Maine, featured on The Adventure Collective. It offers a curated selection of small-group sailing experiences along the Maine coast that combine hands-on sailing, coastal exploration, and comfortable overnight accommodations.

Trips include themed short cruises such as Plein Air Painting & Art, a four-day painting workshop guided by artist Susan Nicholas Gephart; family-focused Kids & Family sails with hands-on sailing and island exploration; and craft-focused Sawmill Creek Fiber Events that provide an inclusive knitting kit and welcome non-knitters. Stargazers can choose Skygazing or the Perseid Meteor Shower Cruise for nighttime celestial viewing and optional camping under the stars. Seasonal options include Summer Solstice Getaway, Early Summer Getaway, Summer Isn't Over Yet, and Fall Color Getaway. The Great Schooner Race offers a week-long windjammer fleet experience with onboard competitions and holiday celebration.

Each trip provides prepared meals and cozy cabin accommodations while visiting serene harbors each evening. Activities vary by voyage and can include knot-tying, scavenger hunts, small-boat competitions, pumpkin carving, and guided painting instruction. The vessel’s itineraries emphasize safety, maritime tradition, and the natural beauty of Maine’s islands and bays.

Bookings are presented as individual trips with specific dates and details. The Schooner J. & E. Riggin is positioned for travelers seeking immersive, small-group maritime experiences that blend outdoor adventure, learning, and community aboard a classic Maine schooner. Guests of varied ages can join selected voyages; minimum age restrictions vary by trip and are listed per itinerary.