Set sail on the historic schooners Ardelle and Isabella during the Sunset Schooner Challenge in Gloucester. Experience competitive sailing, maritime history, and stunning sunset views in this unforgettable maritime adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic mobility and be comfortable on a boat, but no prior sailing experience is necessary.
Wildlife
History
Gloucester has been a vital maritime hub since the 17th century, known for its fishing industry and shipbuilding heritage.
Conservation
The boats and activities prioritize sustainability, and efforts are made to minimize environmental impact on local marine ecosystems.
Maritime Heritage Charters
Set sail on the historic schooners Ardelle and Isabella during the Sunset Schooner Challenge in Gloucester. Experience competitive sailing, maritime history, and stunning sunset views in this unforgettable maritime adventure.
Maritime Heritage Charters operates heritage schooner sails and private charters based in Gloucester, Massachusetts. The company maintains and sails two traditional vessels, the historic 58’ fishing vessel Ardelle and the six-passenger Isabella, offering public sails and tailored private experiences across Gloucester harbor and the Essex River. Maritime Heritage Charters presents a seasonal schedule of festival sails, sunset cruises, music evenings, and quiet restorative voyages that showcase Cape Ann’s maritime history and coastal scenery.
Each voyage emphasizes authentic sailing, safety, and local knowledge. Public offerings include Gloucester Schooner Festival events such as the Parade of Sails, Parade of Sail, Greet the Fleet, and front-row Fireworks and Festival cruises; themed sunset music sails and the Silent Sail; as well as competitive Schooner Challenge participation with Maritime Gloucester apprentice cadets. Private charters provide customizable options for small groups, romantic evenings, family celebrations, and weekend or weekday hires with full crew service.
Maritime Heritage Charters partners with local musicians and Cape Ann artists for special-event programming and hires trained captains and crew to operate all sails. The business highlights small-group intimacy aboard Isabella and the historic character and capacity of the Ardelle for larger private bookings. Guests are encouraged to book early during the May–September season when festival and private dates are in highest demand. All descriptions reflect current published trip offerings and vessel details. Bookings typically include an experienced captain, crew assistance, and narrated local history that highlights Gloucester's fishing heritage and schooner traditions during each scheduled sail. Reservations are available online today.
Tours Offered
10 distinct sails
Festival, sunset, and private options
Vessels
Ardelle & Isabella
Historic 58' Ardelle and six-passenger Isabella
Season
May–September
Peak months for scheduled sails
Capacity
Private & public
Group sails and six-passenger private
Secure front-row festival views, sunset music sails, or an intimate private charter aboard Ardelle or Isabella—book early for May–September dates.
Arrive early for safety briefing
Join the crew early to get familiar with sailing procedures and safety instructions.
Dress in layers
Be prepared for wind and weather changes; wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing.
Bring sun protection
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to guard against UV exposure during daytime sailing.
Stay hydrated
Bring water to keep yourself refreshed during the adventure.
Comfortable Clothing
Wear weather-appropriate, layered clothing for comfort and mobility.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Sunscreen and Hat
Protect yourself from sun exposure during daytime activities.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated on the water with a reusable water bottle.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Sunglasses
Reduce glare and protect your eyes in bright sunlight.
summer|spring|fall|winter