Adventure Collective
Sail Salem’s Historic Schooner with Fame of Salem - Boston

Sail Salem’s Historic Schooner with Fame of Salem

Salemeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1 hour 40 minutes

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to board and stand for the duration recommended.

Overview

Board the historic schooner FAME for a unique sail across Salem Sound. Join the crew to raise sails, steer the ship, and absorb maritime history on Massachusetts’ iconic coast.

Salem, Massachusetts

Sail on the FAME

Most Popular! | Cruise Salem Sound on our beautiful, traditional schooner!

Sailing

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Adventure Photos

Sail on the FAME photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience Salem's top-rated boat tour aboard a historic schooner! Engage with the crew, raise the sails, and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline. Each journey is unique, shaped by the wind and weather, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation. Discover maritime history while savoring snacks and beverages on the water.

Rates

  • Adults - $39
  • Seniors (over 65) - $34
  • Children (5-12) - $34

Sorry, children under 5 not allowed.


Duration

Approx. 1 hour and 40 minutes


The top-rated boat tour in Salem and one of the premier activities in town! 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?

  • 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 1812 experience. Every trip is different. Sometimes we sail to Beverly; other times to Marblehead; other times straight out toward the islands!
  • 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. If you're interested in history, ask questions! If you'd just as soon relax and enjoy the ride, you can do that, too :)
  • Questions? Call us at 978-729-7600! We're real people!

What We Are NOT

  • A booze cruise. We do offer alcoholic beverages, but that is not our focus! Please don't show up drunk. We will not serve people who appear intoxicated. Don't take edibles or other substances before sailing. This is not the place for it.
  • A fully-narrated trip. No recordings! Our captains and crew are very knowledgable about Salem's maritime history and the sights we'll see out on the Sound. The captain will give a brief talk about the history of the original FAME and generally will fire a small cannon as part of this talk. The crew will move about the schooner engaging passengers. If you have a specific question, ASK!
  • ADA accessible. Sorry. 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!
  • 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

The deck can be slippery; sturdy shoes improve safety and comfort while moving around.

Bring a Windbreaker or Light Jacket

Even in summer, it can get chilly and windy on the water—dress in layers to stay comfortable.

Arrive Early for Boarding

Give yourself 15 minutes to check in and watch the boarding video if you have mobility concerns.

No BYOB Alcohol Policy

State law prohibits bringing your own alcohol; beverages are available for purchase onboard.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Ospreys circling above the harbors
  • Great Blue Herons stalking along the shoreline

History

Salem was a major colonial seaport in the 18th and 19th centuries, with its sailing heritage still celebrated aboard vessels like the FAME.

Conservation

Fame of Salem operates with an emphasis on sustainable marine practices to protect Salem Sound’s delicate coastal ecosystems.

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Adventure Hotspots in Boston

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Flat-soled Shoes

Essential

Ensures stability when moving on the wet, sometimes slippery deck.

Windbreaker Jacket

Essential

Protects against wind chill and light spray during the sail.

spring|fall|summer specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Essential for protecting skin during prolonged sun exposure on deck.

summer specific

Sunglasses

Essential

Reduces glare off the water, enhancing visibility and comfort.

spring|summer|fall specific