Maine Sailing Adventures with Sail the Gift

Read the full experience

Stretching along the rocky coastline of southern Maine, Ogunquit offers a unique vantage point to experience the raw beauty of the Atlantic Sea. Here, Sail the Gift invites adventurers aboard their Half Day Private Charter, an intimate four-hour sailing trip tailored to those seeking both relaxation and a pulse of coastal adrenaline. Leaving from Perkins Cove, a historic harbor known for its working waterfront and vibrant artist colony, this trip puts you in the perfect position to feel the wind in your face and watch the water come alive. Onboard a Coast Guard Certified vessel, guests can navigate the coastline with a knowledgeable crew who adjust the course to catch the best winds and wildlife sightings. The journey often reveals seals basking on rocks, seabirds flitting overhead, and if lucky, pods of dolphins or even a curious porpoise. The natural granite formations punctuate the shoreline, contrasting sharply against verdant coastal forests that rise just beyond the cliffs. One of the standouts of this private charter is the opportunity to anchor and swim when conditions permit—a refreshing way to break up the sail and engage directly with Maine’s brisk waters. Unlike many tours, Sail the Gift welcomes guests to bring their own food and drink onboard, encouraging a personalized experience under the open sky. Perkins Cove itself carries a rich maritime heritage, with fishing and shipbuilding shaping the community since the 19th century. Today, Sail the Gift maintains that legacy by connecting visitors intimately to the sea through sustainable, small-group sailing adventures. This half-day charter is not just a trip; it’s a hands-on encounter with Maine’s coastal spirit—bold, fresh, and unmistakably alive. For travelers seeking a half-day on the water with the safety and freedom to customize their experience, Sail the Gift provides an unbeatable gateway to Maine’s rugged coastal outdoors.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

4 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels; no prior sailing experience required.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks on board?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, but lobster is not allowed, and all beverages should be in plastic cups.

Is this trip suitable for children or beginners?

Absolutely. The charter is family-friendly and requires no sailing experience.

What happens if the weather turns bad?

Trips rarely cancel; if weather is unsafe, you'll be contacted and offered a refund or rebooking.

Can we swim during the charter?

Yes, if conditions permit, the crew will anchor to allow swimming.

How many people can join the charter?

The private charter accommodates up to 12 passengers.

Where does the sailing trip depart from?

All trips depart from Perkins Cove in Ogunquit, Maine.

Local insights

Wildlife

Harbor seals
Atlantic puffins

History

Perkins Cove has been a fishing hub since the 1800s, blending maritime tradition with a vibrant arts community.

Conservation

Sail the Gift emphasizes low-impact sailing practices to protect marine habitats and supports local conservation efforts.

About Sail the Gift

Sail the Gift operates a Coast Guard certified sailing vessel based in Perkins Cove, Maine. The company offers a range of private and scheduled experiences for up to 12 passengers, including Burial at Sea services, Private Charters, Weddings, 1.5-hour Sailing Cruises, Half Day Private Charters, and Full Day Private Charters. Sail the Gift provides flexible itineraries tailored to small groups seeking scenic coastal sailing, wildlife viewing, swimming when conditions allow, and private celebrations on the water. Bookings accommodate families, friends, and event groups who prefer an intimate vessel with direct access to Maine’s coastline. Most short cruises run 1.5 hours; full-day private charters are eight hours. Guests are invited to bring their own food and beverages for private trips and most cruises, with the one exception that lobster is not permitted on board. The vessel’s Coast Guard certification provides regulatory oversight for passenger safety and capacity limits. For weddings and memorial services, Sail the Gift accepts private officiants for personalized ceremonies aboard the boat. Burial at Sea options are offered as part of the services list. Private charters are designed to be exclusive to the booking party, ensuring privacy and a tailored experience. The company describes each trip with clear duration and passenger limits, making it straightforward to choose a cruise that fits the occasion. Sail the Gift’s presence in Perkins Cove positions it to access classic Maine scenery, rocky shoreline views, and coastal wildlife, creating memorable experiences for visitors seeking authentic sailing outings. Advance booking is recommended for availability.

Base locationOgunquit, Maine

Tours offered6+

Specialty

Adventure tips

Dress in Layers for Coastal WeatherTemperatures on the water can be 8-10°F cooler than on land, so bring a windbreaker or fleece to stay comfortable.

Bring Your Own Food and DrinksEnjoy a customized picnic onboard, but avoid bringing lobster as it's not allowed on the vessel.

Use Plastic Cups for BeveragesTo keep the vessel safe and clean, bring drinks in plastic cups rather than glass containers.

Be Ready to Swim if Weather PermitsIf conditions are right, you can anchor for a swim—bring a swimsuit and towel just in case.

Recommended gear

Windbreaker or Waterproof Jacket: Protects from wind chill and unexpected sea spray during cooler months.
Sunscreen: Essential for protecting skin from strong coastal sun exposure.
Swimsuit: Bring for a refreshing swim if the weather and water conditions allow.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your sail with your own bottle aboard.