Set sail aboard the historic Lettie G. Howard for a hands-on sailing experience in Erie’s Presque Isle Bay. Learn maritime history while enjoying scenic waterfront views on this unique day cruise.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Open to most fitness levels; no prior sailing experience required
Wildlife
History
The Lettie G. Howard has been part of Erie’s maritime scene since 1930, representing a proud fishing heritage.
Conservation
The vessel's preservation is part of Erie’s ongoing efforts to maintain maritime history and promote sustainable tourism.
Lettie G. Howard
Set sail aboard the historic Lettie G. Howard for a hands-on sailing experience in Erie’s Presque Isle Bay. Learn maritime history while enjoying scenic waterfront views on this unique day cruise.
Lettie G. Howard is a historic wooden fishing schooner based in Ashtabula, Ohio that offers public sailing experiences on Lake Erie. Built in 1893, the Lettie G. Howard is one of the last surviving wooden fishing schooners and operates as a living maritime exhibit and passenger vessel. The vessel’s scheduled sails include Wine & Walleye Festival Day Sail, Wine & Walleye Festival Sunset Sail, Wine & Walleye Festival Fireworks Cruise, a Day Sail departing from Erie’s Dobbins Landing, and a Sunset Sail through Presque Isle Bay.
Each trip invites passengers to learn about the schooner’s history while enjoying scenic views of Lake Erie. Crew members encourage riders to participate in setting sails and provide narration about traditional seamanship and regional Great Lakes heritage. Trip durations vary by itinerary, from a 1.5-hour Presque Isle Bay day sail to two-hour sunset cruises, and popular festival sails often list limited availability.
The Lettie G. Howard programming focuses on hands-on maritime interpretation and public engagement with Great Lakes history. Visitors are advised to review trip descriptions and departure locations before booking, since some sails depart from Erie area docks. Sails welcome guests of all ages, making the schooner suitable for family outings, special occasions, and educational group visits along Lake Erie’s shoreline. Reserve early to secure space.
Built
1893
One of the last wooden schooners
Location
Ashtabula, OH
Based in the Lake Erie region
Tours Offered
5 Trips
Day, sunset, festival, fireworks sails
Vessel
Wooden Schooner
Historic fishing schooner class
Reserve limited spots for Day Sails, Sunset Cruises, and Wine & Walleye Festival sails aboard the Lettie G. Howard.
Wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen
Dress in layers and apply sun protection for a day on the water.
Arrive early for boarding
Get to Dobbins Landing ahead of time to ensure a smooth start.
Bring your camera
Capture scenic views and maritime details during the sail.
Participate in sailing if comfortable
Engage in setting the sails and learn basic seamanship skills.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from sun exposure during the sail.
summer
Hat and sunglasses
Provides shade and reduces glare on the water.
summer
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry if weather turns rainy or chilly.
spring,fall,winter
Layered clothing
Adjust for changing weather conditions aboard the boat.
year-round