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Set sail on the historic Lettie G. Howard at sunset for a memorable maritime adventure in Presque Isle Bay. Discover the ship’s storied past while enjoying breathtaking views over the water.
Set sail on the historic Lettie G. Howard at sunset for a memorable maritime adventure in Presque Isle Bay. Discover the ship’s storied past while enjoying breathtaking views over the water.
Book with Lettie G. Howard
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Lettie G. Howard · Erie, Pennsylvania
Presque Isle Bay in Erie, Pennsylvania, offers a prime setting for maritime adventures, and the Sunset Sail aboard the Lettie G. Howard delivers an authentic coastal experience. This historic wooden schooner, one of the last of its kind, provides a rare glimpse into the golden age of Great Lakes fishing. The boat, meticulously maintained, carries a storied past—originally a working fishing vessel now transformed into a floating time capsule. Setting out during the late afternoon, passengers are welcomed aboard to assist crew members, gaining hands-on insight into traditional sailing techniques.
The two-hour journey unfolds against a stunning backdrop of sunset hues reflected on the calm bay waters. As you glide past Presque Isle State Park’s scenic shoreline, the crew shares tales of the schooner’s history and the local maritime heritage. The gentle sea breeze and the rhythmic lapping of water against the hull create a soothing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding while soaking up panoramic views. This trip is ideal for those seeking a meaningful connection to nautical history combined with serene natural beauty.
What makes this sail stand out is not just its scenic beauty but its educational aspect—a chance to learn about the ship’s unique construction, showcasing traditional wooden boat-building craftsmanship. It also offers an intimate way to experience Erie’s waterfront and the Great Lakes’ maritime culture. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a peaceful escape by water, the Lettie G. Howard sunset cruise is a richly rewarding outing for adventurers eager to encounter the historic side of lake life.
This authentic sailing experience reveals why Erie’s waterfront remains a cherished hub for water enthusiasts. It’s an opportunity to unwind, observe the city’s skyline, and witness nature’s daily spectacle—an activity that makes Erie truly special for coastal explorers and history buffs alike.
easy.
2 hours.
Open to most fitness levels; no special physical conditioning required
Yes, crew members often welcome assistance with sailing tasks like handling ropes and navigating.
Yes, the trip is family-friendly, but parental supervision is recommended for young children.
The cruises may be canceled or rescheduled in heavy rain or storms for safety reasons.
Yes, the schooner is equipped with basic restroom facilities.
Tickets can be purchased online through the provided referral link or in person before the cruise.
Accessibility options depend on the specific vessel setup; please inquire in advance.
The Lettie G. Howard was built in 1919 and represents the last of the classic Great Lakes fishing schooners still afloat, embodying over a century of maritime tradition.
The operation emphasizes environmentally friendly practices, including responsible boat handling and minimizing water disturbance to preserve the bay’s ecosystem.
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.
Book with Lettie G. Howard