Along the sparkling waves of Maine, a captivating adventure takes shape, where the echo of historic wooden sails resonates with the breath of the wind. Let’s embark together on a unique crossing along the majestic coasts of this American state, where the magic of sailing and natural beauty meet harmoniously. Follow me aboard an old-fashioned sailboat, and let yourself be carried away by the timeless charm of this maritime escapade.
Boarding at Rockland #
Late in the evening, we board the American Eagle in the tiny port of Rockland, Maine. This 36-meter wooden sailboat was built in 1930 in Gloucester, Massachusetts, as a fishing schooner. Getting on board is like stepping into the past.
The ship’s wooden decks gleam, the polished brass sparkles, and the majestic masts sway gently above us. American Eagle wears her age well, beautifully transformed to provide an authentic sailing experience that evokes the golden age of sailing. It can accommodate 26 passengers comfortably. This week, Laurie and I are one of those lucky ones.
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What is a Maine Windjammer? #
The American Eagle is one of the Maine Windjammers, the largest fleet of traditional tall ships in the Americas. Each individually owned sailboat offers all-inclusive maritime adventures on Penobscot Bay along the Maine coast.
Maine has more than 4,600 islands along its coast, providing a huge playground for marine adventurers. Laurie and I left our husbands at home to explore this unique region aboard this historic schooner. Although we are not experienced sailors, we look forward to spending time at sea.
Thematic Stays on Board the American Eagle #
We joined the three night cruise to observe the Perseid meteor showers. From May to September, American Eagle offers three- to six-night cruises, some with special themes, like this one. We hope the night skies above the sea will provide a spectacular view of this prolific meteor shower, usually visible from mid-July to late August.
In September, they also host a six-day themed cruise called “Wooden Boat Sail-In,” where the entire fleet of Windjammers comes together for a night of music and camaraderie.
Discovery of the American Eagle #
Laurie and I go down to our cozy little cabin. It is equipped with two berths, fresh linens, reading lights, 12 volt outlets and a small sink with mirror. There are two shared toilets and a shower on board. Below deck, a wooden master cabin with a library of board games awaits us for rainy days.
It is exhilarating to stand on deck as the ship tilts in the wind, cutting through the water at high speed. We enjoy the friendly camaraderie of fellow passengers and help hoist the sails when necessary.
On Board Catering #
We eat like kings aboard the American Eagle. Food is purchased locally wherever possible from farmers, roasters and fishermen on the Maine coast. Each meal is prepared in the ship’s small galley using the original 1930 wood-burning stove.
Meals quickly become a highlight of our day, accompanied by fresh breads, pastries and desserts. Each trip is all-inclusive, with meals included in the fare. You can bring your wine and beer on board and store them in the ship’s refrigerator.
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Where the Wind Takes Us #
When cruising, the itinerary depends on the wind. American Eagle’s home port is Rockland, Maine, so we depart and return from this small coastal Maine town. Other than that, we sail where the wind takes us.
The first morning, we wake up to a magnificent blue sky. Crossing dozens of islands, we pass some dotted with vacation homes, others deserted. In the evening, we anchor in a peaceful bay. After rowing to shore in the ship’s wooden canoe, we watch the crew build a fire on the beach. They bought dozens of lobsters to a local fisherman.
An Unforgettable Night #
A few minutes later, our lobster festivity is underway. After a delicious lobster picnic, Laurie and I take a walk through the woods to the other side of the small island. There’s not a soul in sight.
The sun sets as we row back to the American Eagle. This unforgettable day ensures us a night of restful sleep.
The next morning, we woke up in a thick fog. It’s magical, with the mist and light rain muffling all sounds. The crew covers the deck, and we have a leisurely breakfast. When the fog clears, we head for Stonington, a small traditional fishing village. There, as we stroll among the small shops, I discover a tiny second-hand bookstore and I can’t help but buy several novels set in Maine.
Evening with Captain Tyler King #
On our last evening on board, we join the other passengers for a fun game of charades. Laughter fills the air. As night falls, the crew takes out the lanterns and Captain Tyler King picks up his guitar. He sings us old sea songs before reading poems and stories of the sea.
Captain Tyler grew up sailing with his parents on a 19 meter schooner. He was so young when he started sailing that he slept in a drawer. His family owned a small wooden shipyard in Gloucester, Massachusetts, and he quickly learned to build and repair almost every type of wooden ship. It’s obvious how much he loves being at sea.
Later in the evening, the sky clears. The stars appear and are reflected on the sea, as smooth as glass. The American Eagle barely moves, but the gentle movement lulls me into deep sleep, dreaming of the ocean once again.
