Join the Great Schooner Race aboard the historic J. & E. Riggin in Rockland, Maine. Experience thrilling small boat racing, beautiful coastal views, and festive Independence Day celebrations on this week-long sailing adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to assist with sailing tasks such as hoisting sails and moving around the deck.
Wildlife
History
The J. & E. Riggin is one of the last surviving wooden schooners from Maine's windjammer fleet, dating back to the early 20th century.
Conservation
The Maine Windjammer Association emphasizes sustainable tourism, respecting marine wildlife and limiting environmental impact during trips.
The Schooner J. & E. Riggin
Join the Great Schooner Race aboard the historic J. & E. Riggin in Rockland, Maine. Experience thrilling small boat racing, beautiful coastal views, and festive Independence Day celebrations on this week-long sailing adventure.
The Schooner J. & E. Riggin is a historic two-masted schooner based in Rockland, Maine, featured on The Adventure Collective. It offers a curated selection of small-group sailing experiences along the Maine coast that combine hands-on sailing, coastal exploration, and comfortable overnight accommodations.
Trips include themed short cruises such as Plein Air Painting & Art, a four-day painting workshop guided by artist Susan Nicholas Gephart; family-focused Kids & Family sails with hands-on sailing and island exploration; and craft-focused Sawmill Creek Fiber Events that provide an inclusive knitting kit and welcome non-knitters. Stargazers can choose Skygazing or the Perseid Meteor Shower Cruise for nighttime celestial viewing and optional camping under the stars. Seasonal options include Summer Solstice Getaway, Early Summer Getaway, Summer Isn't Over Yet, and Fall Color Getaway. The Great Schooner Race offers a week-long windjammer fleet experience with onboard competitions and holiday celebration.
Each trip provides prepared meals and cozy cabin accommodations while visiting serene harbors each evening. Activities vary by voyage and can include knot-tying, scavenger hunts, small-boat competitions, pumpkin carving, and guided painting instruction. The vessel’s itineraries emphasize safety, maritime tradition, and the natural beauty of Maine’s islands and bays.
Bookings are presented as individual trips with specific dates and details. The Schooner J. & E. Riggin is positioned for travelers seeking immersive, small-group maritime experiences that blend outdoor adventure, learning, and community aboard a classic Maine schooner. Guests of varied ages can join selected voyages; minimum age restrictions vary by trip and are listed per itinerary.
Home Port
Rockland, ME
Departures originate from Rockland harbor
Historic Vessel
Two-masted schooner
Classic Maine sailing experience onboard
Trips Offered
10
A variety of themed sailing voyages
Trip Lengths
3–7 days
Short sails to week-long adventures
Choose dates, view trip details, and book the themed sailing experience that fits — art retreats, family sails, stargazing cruises, and seasonal adventures await.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Decks can be slippery; secure footwear improves safety while moving around the schooner.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water to stay refreshed during long hours under the sun on deck.
Pack Sunscreen and a Hat
Protect your skin and eyes from strong sun exposure while sailing on open waters.
Bring a Waterproof Bag
Keep your essentials dry during splashes and unexpected weather changes on the water.
Non-slip Sailing Shoes
Provides grip and safety on wet decks during sailing activities.
summer
Waterproof Jacket
Protects you from wind and spray on the water in cooler or wetter conditions.
spring
Wide-Brim Sun Hat
Keeps your face and neck shaded from strong maritime sun.
summer
Dry Bag
Keeps your valuables and electronics dry amid water splashes.