Adventure Collective
Sunset Sail in Salem: Historic Maritime Adventure on Salem Sound - Salem

Sunset Sail in Salem: Historic Maritime Adventure on Salem Sound

Salemmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; some standing and light physical activity involved when handling sails.

Overview

Set sail on Salem Sound with a sunset cruise that blends hands-on sailing, coastal views, and a cannon salute at dusk. Discover why this historic boat tour is a can’t-miss experience in Salem.

Salem, Massachusetts

Sunset Sail

Close out your day with a sunset, a cannon salute, and a relaxing beverage!

Sailing

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Adventure Photos

Sunset Sail photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of sailing on Salem's top-rated boat tour! Engage with the crew, raise the sails, and enjoy breathtaking views as you navigate the waters. Each journey is unique, offering a glimpse into maritime history and the stunning sights of Salem Sound. Relax, learn, and savor the adventure!

Rates

  • All sunset tickets - $49

Sorry, no children under 5 are allowed.


Duration

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 blah-blah-blah over the PA system! 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!
  • Bring a jacket or sweatshirt. It's always cooler on the water, especially at sunset.
  • 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

Dress in layers

Evenings on the water can get cool; bring a windbreaker or fleece to stay comfortable.

Arrive early

Plan to arrive 15 minutes before departure to get settled and hear the safety briefing.

Bring a camera

The sunset and coastal landmarks offer excellent photo opportunities—keep your camera ready.

Mind the deck

Wear non-slip shoes and be cautious on wet surfaces to avoid slips during sailing.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Harbor seals often swim near the harbor entrance
  • Ospreys hunt in the waters around Salem Sound

History

Salem’s maritime history dates back to the 1600s, with its port once among the busiest on the East Coast.

Conservation

The boat operator follows guidelines to protect local marine life and minimize impact on the coastal environment.

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Adventure Hotspots in Salem

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Windbreaker

Essential

Protects against cool sea breezes as the sun sets.

summer specific

Comfortable layered clothing

Essential

Allows you to adjust warmth as temperatures change during the sail.

all specific

Non-slip footwear

Essential

Essential for safety on the boat’s deck.

all specific

Camera or smartphone

Capture the stunning sunset and scenic views of Salem Harbor.

all specific