Adventure Collective
Sail into History: Experience the Camden Windjammer Festival in Maine - Rockland

Sail into History: Experience the Camden Windjammer Festival in Maine

Rocklandmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

Half-day to full day

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic mobility and balance for climbing aboard and moving around deck spaces

Overview

Discover Maine’s maritime heritage at the Camden Windjammer Festival near Rockland. Sail classic wooden schooners, explore coastal vistas, and immerse yourself in a living history of wind-powered adventure on Penobscot Bay.

Rockland, Maine

Camden Windjammer Festival

Experience the largest gathering of windjammers in the northeast!

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Adventure Photos

Camden Windjammer Festival photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the enchanting Camden Windjammer Festival aboard the historic schooner J. & E. Riggin. Sail along the stunning coast, enjoy a traditional lobster bake, and immerse yourself in maritime traditions. Revel in the vibrant festivities, including a talent show and fireworks, while surrounded by majestic windjammers in picturesque Camden Harbor.

Enjoy the festivities in Camden, Maine!


Departure Dates & Rates

September 1 - September 5, 2026: 4-Day/4-Night Adventure Per person: $1480

Ages 12+


Boarding and Returning

Please note, we board every trip the evening of your chosen departure date between 5 and 6 p.m.

We will have you back at the dock before noon on the last day of your trip.


The Cruise

Join us for the Camden Windjammer Festival, an annual maritime celebration where the largest gathering of windjammers in the northeast takes place!

On Friday afternoon, we arrive with the rest of the fleet in Camden Harbor. The harbor will be filled with the sails and masts of nearly two dozen windjammers, schooners, and even a ketch. On shore, and in the harbor, there will be a variety of activities, games, and displays of maritime traditions and crafts. We will stay in Camden Harbor for the night.

As we will be dockside, you will be able to go ashore and enjoy the festivities including the Schooner Talent Show and fireworks over the harbor later in the evening. This is a great opportunity to see a variety of windjammers up close.

Before we arrive in Camden, we will spend the first part of this trip sailing along the coast and weaving our way around islands. One of these evenings we will anchor a little early for a traditional lobster bake.


The Ship

The J. & E. Riggin, a beautiful, historic two-masted schooner. She was designated a National Historic Monument in 1991. She is 89′ long on deck, 120′ overall, 23′ wide and draws 7′ with her centerboard up. She was built in 1927 as an oyster dredger and rebuilt for passenger sail in 1977.

The Riggin is fully equipped with GPS, radar, and radio. She meets all Coast Guard requirements for construction and safety equipment. Certified to carry passengers, she fully meets all requirements for stability and watertight integrity. The Riggin has no inboard engine. Her sixteen-foot diesel-powered yawl boat can be used during calm spells for maneuvering into or out of tight harbors.


Includes

  • All meals (excluding dinner on boarding night)
  • Linens including fresh sheets, warm blankets, a quilt or comforter, pillows, and towels
  • Locally made, small-batch soap
  • Coffee (regular and decaf), tea, and hot chocolate
  • Ice and an ice chest are available for passenger use

Things to Note

  • Sink with cold running water in each cabin
  • Window that opens for fresh air and natural light
  • A 12V outlet & 2 USB ports
  • Reading light over each bunk
  • Must be able to navigate a ladder and stairs
  • Toilets (“heads”) are located above deck
  • Hot freshwater shower available
  • A non-smoking vessel
  • There is a $20 per vehicle parking fee (covers the length of your trip)
  • Gratuity is not included
  • A Ship Store is available on board
  • Alcohol is not included on this cruise; however, you are welcome to bring it with you

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Best Availability

This popular festival fills up quickly—reserve your spot weeks in advance to secure a place aboard the windjammers.

Dress in Layers

Coastal weather can shift fast; bring moisture-wicking layers and a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable on deck.

Wear Non-Slip Footwear

Slick wooden decks require sturdy, non-slip shoes for safety while sailing or boarding ships.

Arrive Via Rockland for Easy Access

Rockland’s small airport and Amtrak station provide convenient access to the festival’s sailing activities and local lodging.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Harbor seals sunbathing on rocky shores
  • Bald eagles soaring above the bay

History

Rockland was once a thriving shipbuilding hub in the 19th century, critical to Maine’s maritime economy.

Conservation

The festival promotes sustainable tourism by advocating for ocean-friendly practices among vessels and visitors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Windbreaker Jacket

Essential

Protects against sudden coastal breezes and sea spray during sailing.

summer specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Essential to shield your skin from strong sun exposure on open water.

summer specific

Comfortable Deck Shoes

Essential

Ensures safe footing on the wooden decks of the sailing vessels.

summer specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is key while out on the water during festival activities.