moderate
3–4 hours
Participants should be in moderate physical shape, able to move around the ship and stand for periods while assisting crew.
Experience the thrill of sailing aboard the historic Lettie G. Howard during the Wine & Walleye Festival in Ashtabula, Ohio. Join a private day sail on Lake Erie with stunning views and rich maritime history.
1-1/2 hr day sail
Experience the thrill of sailing aboard the historic Lettie G. Howard, one of the last wooden fishing schooners from 1893. Enjoy a unique journey on Lake Erie, where you can assist the crew, learn about the ship's fascinating history, and soak in the stunning views. Limited spots available—book your adventure today!
Sails sell out quickly and we have a limited number of sail dates and spots available during our sailing season!
Must be 3 years of age or older. Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Sail on one of the last surviving vessels of her kind!
Lettie G. Howard is one of the last surviving wooden Fredonia style fishing schooners. She was built in Essex, Massachusetts in 1893 and fished off the Northeast Atlantic and Gulf coasts. She arrived at South Street Seaport Museum in New York City in 1968 and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1989. She underwent an extensive two-year rebuild that restored her to her original appearance in the 1990s.
Lettie G. Howard is owned by the South Street Seaport Museum and is operated as a programmatic collaboration between the South Street Seaport Museum and the Flagship Niagara League.
Lettie G. Howard sails from the wharf along Morton Street, northwest of the Ashtabula Lift Bridge and across the street from US Coast Guard Station Ashtabula.
Due to foot traffic or perimeters throughout the Wine and Walleye festival grounds, parking spots may be harder to find or less conveniently located -- please plan accordingly.
We will check everyone in 15 minutes before the scheduled time of the sail and then board everyone. The Captain or Chief Mate will give a short introduction before getting underway. You’ll help the crew set some of the larger sails and sit back, relax, and enjoy sailing. You’ll meet the crew and learn about Lettie G. Howard’s unique history while she sails Lake Erie.
This is a general plan for a sail, however, please know that sailing plans are subject to change. Exact sailing route and sail plan is at the Captain’s discretion and dependent on wind and weather conditions.
Lettie G. Howard is owned by the South Street Seaport Museum and is operated as a programmatic collaboration between the South Street Seaport Museum and the Flagship Niagara League.
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to get settled and participate in the pre-sail brief.
Shoes with good grip are important for safely moving around the wooden deck during sailing.
Lake Erie can get chilly and breezy even in summer, so a light windbreaker is recommended.
Bring a reusable water bottle as the sun reflecting off the water can increase dehydration risk.
The Lettie G. Howard is a rare surviving example of late 19th-century fishing schooners used on the Great Lakes.
This sail promotes sustainable tourism by educating guests about Lake Erie's ecosystem and encouraging waste-free practices onboard.
Crucial for safety while moving aboard the wooden deck.
Protects against breezy lake conditions during cool weather.
spring specific
Prevents sunburn from reflected sunlight off the water.
summer specific
Keeps you hydrated throughout the sail.