camden maine sailboat cruises

Schooner Surprise / Sloop Anjacaa

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Join us for a two hour daysail on the elegant Schooner Surprise or Sloop Anjacaa out of Camden, Maine.  Surprise and Anjacaa sail around the magnificent Penobscot Bay.

Surprise  is our larger vessel which carries a maximum of 18 passengers. If you’re looking for a more private sail,  Anjacaa  has a limit of six passengers.

On our Camden day cruises we will see lighthouses, wildlife, private yachts and summer estates. We offer evening live music sails and sunset live music sails (depending on the time of the summer), birding and marine life tours, full moon sail and fireworks sails. We sail 7 days a week from mid-May to mid-October. Get involved and help raise sails or steer the boat, we are great with kids! Come and join us for a cruise on board the most famous windjammer in Maine, Surprise or one of the prettiest sloops in Camden, Anjacaa . We offer environmentally friendly boat tours. We have limited amount of passengers with cushioned seating for all.

Come sail the Maine Coast with us.

See our schedule and rates

Private Charters

Join us for your Camden Maine Charter on the Schooner Surprise . Special events, weddings, birthdays, family reunions, anniversaries and corporate events. Two hour, half day and full day cruises on the beautiful coast of Maine.

Anjacaa  also makes a perfect setting for for private charters. A chartered sail can last from two hours to all day or even overnight. We take care to customize each trip to suit your needs and the occasion.

Private charters on Anjacaa  are great for intimate cocktail parties, small weddings, birthday celebrations, a get-together with friends or a romantic sunset sail just for two. 

Have us cater your Camden cruise and serve exquisite appetizers on a sunset sail or a lobster lunch.

Our Maine windjammer cruises will give you an unparalleled view of Camden Hills. We have been highly rated tour operators in Camden Maine for 35 years. Rated #1 on Trip Advisor!! Book your Camden Charters with us.

Learn more about private charters on the Schooner Surprise or  private charters on Sloop Anjacaa .

Special Schooner Surprise Events

Full moon sail with live music.

Watch the sunset over Camden Hills and the full moon rise over Penobscot Bay.

July 10 (7:15pm - 9:15pm) August 9, 10 (7:15pm - 9:15pm) Rate: Adults $75 / Kids $65

September 7 (5:30pm - 7:30pm) Rate: Adults $65 kids $50

Fireworks over Camden Harbor

July 4 7:15pm - 9:15pm Rate: Adults/Kids $80

Evening Sail with Live Music

Enjoy an evening on Penobscot Bay while listening to live acoustic music on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:15-7:15pm.

July 2, 4, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30

August 1,4, 6, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, 29

September 1, 3, 5

Rate: Adults $75 / Kids $65

Birding and Marine life tour with ornithologist Richard Podolsky

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays in July, August, and the first week of September from 10am - 12pm.

July 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30, 31

August 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28

September 2, 3, 4

Rate: Adults $66 / Kids $60

Schooner Surprise /  Sloop Anjacaa Ramiro and Nicole de Acevedo Ramos 16 Bay View Street Camden, ME 04843

207.236.4687 [email protected]

Camden Rockland Maine  Chamber of Commerce Camden, Lincolnville, Maine Inns, B&B’s and Hotels Rockland, Rockport, Maine Inns, B&B’s and Hotels Vacation Rentals Camden Maine Weather Schooner Surprise Trip Advisor Schooner   Surprise Facebook Page Schooner Surprise Yelp Schooner Surprise Instagram Down East Magazine Maine Magazine Penbscot Bay Pilot Web News Maine Boats, Home and Harbors website

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Schooner Olad & Cutter Owl Sailing Cruises and Charters departing from Camden, Maine

Join us for a sailing experience in Camden, Maine! We offer two-hour day sails or custom private charters departing from the picturesque Camden Harbor. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the rocky shoreline of Penobscot Bay where you can spot hidden mansions, lighthouses, small islands, seals, bald eagles, lobster boats, and other magnificent ships! 

The Schooner Olad  is a completely restored, classic sailing yacht built in 1927. Departing daily from Camden, Maine mid-May to mid-October, the Olad offers two-hour day sails for up to 22 passengers. The Olad also offers custom sailing charters for two hours, a half-day, or even a full day, making it the perfect setting for a family reunion, office outing, wedding, or get together with close friends! Be sure to check out our Special Events page where we offer many public special events throughout the season including sailing races, island lobster bakes, and lighthouse tours. 

The  Sailing Vessel Owl is perfect for those looking for a more intimate sailing trip. Join us aboard our 6-passenger sailing vessel, which is one of the most versatile sailboats departing from Camden Harbor. The Owl was designed by famous yacht designer John Alden to be a fast and comfortable cruising boat. Built in 1941, the Owl is a timeless classic that has been rebuilt to the height of today's standards. The Cutter Owl is available for two and three-hour day sails, as well as customizable private charters for up to 6 passengers. With advance notice the Owl will sail you to Stonington for an overnight at one of the beautiful inns, to Vinalhaven for a romantic dinner and overnight at Nebo Lodge, or to a tent site at Warren Island State Park where we'll prepare a lobster bake for you! Did we say versatile? 

Come sailing with  Captain Aaron Lincoln , a local Mainer with many facts and stories about the area, as well as the Schooner trade! 

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Captain's Blog

Give the gift of a sail on the olad and owl this holiday season.

Submitted by Jaclyn Gilson on Tue, 2024-12-03 11:49

• Read more about Give the Gift of a Sail on the Olad and Owl this Holiday Season!

August is Here!

Submitted by Jaclyn Gilson on Thu, 2024-08-01 12:37

• Read more about August is Here!

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14 BEST Camden Maine Cruises & Schooner Boat Tours

As the “Jewel of the Maine Coast”, Camden is so much to offer visitors, including its fresh seafood, opportunities for outdoor adventure, and shopping.

But a visit to Camden isn’t complete without going on one of the many Camden Maine cruises available in Camden Harbor. Schooner boat tours in Camden are one of the best ways to spend time on the water and really make the most of a trip here.

You don’t have to look far if you’re looking for the best Camden Maine cruises. Camden Harbor is filled with schooners, windjammers , and other ships waiting to take you away on a memorable ocean cruise to see lobster boats, towering summer estates, and some of the most beautiful coastal scenery you’ll find anywhere in the world.

Request our full vacation guide to Mid-Coast Maine. All the amazing things to do in Mid-Coast Maine in one free guide.

Lively Lady | Camden Harbor

From May through October, those looking to take a trip in Camden Harbor and along Penobscot Bay can hop aboard the Lively Lady. While relaxing onboard, visitors can keep their eyes peeled for historic lighthouses, eagles, seals, mansions, and, of course, windjammers.

If you’re looking for a private charter, Camden Harbor Cruises offers charter aboard the Periwinkle and the Lively Lady for a full day, a half day, or even a few hours.

No matter if you need a private ferry for a field trip, a wedding party, or a lighthouse tour, all accommodations can be met.

Sloop Anjacaa | Camden Harbor

This sleek 54-foot sloop was built for speed and is a popular choice for boaters since she arrived from Wisconsin in 1973. The sloop’s name combines former owner Robert Watson’s daughters’ names: Ann, Jane, and Caroline.

The Anjacaa has been a fixture in Camden Harbor for decades. It can seat up to six passengers and features a furnished living area, private cabins, and private bathrooms, all of which can add to your comfort on your trip.

Book a two-hour day sail to see the majesty of Maine’s coastline or book a private charter if you’re seeking a more private sail, such as a sunset sail or a birthday celebration.

Schooner Suprise | Camden

This schooner lives up to its name by offering those who come aboard a chance to see all the wonders of Maine, from the lighthouses to the wildlife and everything in between.

Surprise is also a good name for this boat because it offers tons of surprises to customers, including sunset sails with live music, fireworks sails, full moon sails, and even eco-friendly tours.

An unforgettable sail on a comfortable schooner is hard to beat, but that’s exactly what you’ll get here.

Schooner Appledore II | Camden

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to sail on a famous wooden schooner? Well, after a trip aboard the Appledore II, you won’t have to wonder anymore. In fact, you might even feel like an adventurer during your journey.

There’s something indescribably special about feeling the wind blow through your hair as you take a day sail, a sunset sail, or a private charter.

The Appledore II offers a chance to see incredible landmarks along the Maine coast, but it also offers a chance to hoist the sails and even take a turn steering the ship! Talk about a hands-on experience!

Schooner Lazy Jack II | Camden

Don’t let the name fool you; this ship has been sailing Camden and the surrounding area for 25 years and is the only Camden schooner that was built by its owner.

The Lazy Jack offers day sails and private charters to help customers really experience how terrific Penobscot Bay is . It’s also perfect for a family outing because kids of all ages are welcome as are dogs (provided they are well-behaved).

Schooner sails are all about making memories and there’s no doubt a sail on the Lazy Jack will leave you with some unforgettable experiences.

Schooner Olad and Cutter Owl | Camden

Having options is never a bad thing and you’ve got great choices here.

The Olad is a classic sailing yacht that offers two-hour daily sails, or several custom charter options. It also holds special seasonal events including lighthouse tours, sailing races, and lobster bakes.

The Owl is incredibly versatile and great for those seeking a more intimate sailing experience. It can seat up to six people and is available for two and three-hour daily sails and custom charters.

If you want something really special, the Owl will sail you to one of several inns along the Maine coast and even take you to a campsite for a specially-prepared lobster bake.

Sail Camden | Camden

During the season, Sail Camden ships set sail from Camden four times a day and offer a chance for unforgettable memories and adventures on Penobscot Bay.

These voyages can be customized to fit your group including half-day and full-day sails. Satisfied customers rave about the views, the hospitality, and the entertainment, so come check it out for yourself!

Schooner Mercantile | Camden

Depending on who you ask, the Mercantile is one of the most beautiful boats in Camden’s windjammer fleet.

That reputation isn’t without merit. The Mercantile’s roots can be traced back to 1916 and it has been updated and refitted over the years to offer the best possible experience to customers.

The Mercantile is a favorite among longtime Camden residents and offers three and four-day cruises.

Schooner Mistress | Camden

This beautiful ship holds only six passengers, but it’s the perfect blend of schooner and private yacht to offer an intimate experience.

The ship offers weekend, three, four, and five-day cruises for folks wanting their own private cruise around Camden Harbor and the surrounding area.

The Mistress has the look of a traditional schooner, but the power of a modern ship and it offers onboard meals, private cabins, and other accommodations.

Mary Day | Camden

The Mary Day is the perfect ship to sail on if you want to refresh your soul and make the most of your experience in Maine.

The Mary Day is the first Maine windjammer built for passengers and was designed with attention paid to every detail to make customers feel welcome.

Features of the ship include an uncluttered layout that invites passengers to stretch out in comfy deck chairs. There are also private cabins, private shower heads, an open galley, and wood-fired heat in every cabin.

Windjammer Grace Bailey | Camden

Offering both five-day and weekend cruises, the majestic Grace Bailey is a shining example of a 19th-century windjammer.

Dating back to 1882, the Grace Bailey accommodates up to 29 people and is filled with a rich history. From its sails to its wooden decks and everything in between, customers will feel like they’ve stepped back in time when they come on board.

The ship has undergone restorations and renovations, but efforts have always been made to maintain its historic aesthetic. The ship is so well known, it’s listed as a national landmark.

Lewis R. French | Camden Harbor

If you’re looking for a Maine sailing vacation that combines the beauty of the Maine coast with sailing on a tall, majestic ship. It also happens to be the oldest commercial sailing ship in the nation.

The Lewis R. French first launched in 1871 and has been a fixture of the Camden coastline for decades. The ship, which is also a national landmark, has been retrofitted with accommodating cabins, a full galley, and more.

Let the sounds of the bay fill your ears, take a turn at the helm, enjoy an onboard meal of fresh seafood, and make the most of your Maine experience.

Windjammer Angelique | Camden

The captain may do the steering onboard this excellent ship, but the customers are the ones who call the shots.

The Angelique offers an unforgettable experience based on what you want. It can be as spontaneous or as scripted as you want.

As if that weren’t enough, the tours are also eco-friendly. The wind carries the ship up and down the coast and very little power is used, so you can explore the Maine coastline and help the environment while you do!

With great views, good food, and peace awaiting, all you have to do is pick a date!

Camden Maine Sailing Charters | Camden

Climb aboard the Sagcious and set sail from Camden Harbor on your own private charter!

You can sit back and enjoy the views or you can be an active participant and sail the vessel. One of the cool things about a trip onboard the Sagacious is that it specializes in teaching charters, where Captain Nancy Rowe can help those who want to learn about navigation or want to brush up on their skills.

The ship seats up to six people, so you’ll have a private, intimate experience seeing the true beauty of the Maine coast.

Plan Your Camden Boat Trip Today

A boat tour in Camden is an exceptional experience in Maine and one you have to experience for yourself to really appreciate.

Peace and serenity await in Maine, whether you enjoy sunset cruises or you want to take a multi-day spin around the majestic Maine coast. You can do it all and the only thing standing in your way is your imagination.

Whether you’re looking to take your next family reunion to the next level, you want to see just what these awesome Maine daily cruises are all about, or you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to sail aboard a famous windjammer, you’ve got lots of options awaiting you in Camden.

Once you book your Camden boat trip, booking your lodging should be your next step and The Country Inn at Camden Rockport offers affordable accommodations and amenities for a memorable and enjoyable stay.

• Last Modified June 29, 2023

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Camden Harbor Cruises

Lighthouse lobster tours and custom private charters, departing from camden, maine aboard lively lady, book now   .

Or visit our ticket booth on the Public Landing

Open Mid-May until Mid-October Seven days a week

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why should I choose Camden Harbor Cruises?
• What will we see?
• Where will we go?
• What will we do?
• What should we bring and wear?
• Will I get sea sick?
• Do you allow children?
• Where are you located?
• Where do we park?
• What about wheelchairs?
• Can I smoke aboard?
• Is there a bathroom?
• Is there shade aboard?
• Do you allow dogs?
• What time should we check-in?
• What is the Cancellation Policy?
• What if I need to Change my Reservation?

The coastline surrounding Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay is considered some of the most beautiful in the world. Relax aboard our classic wooden motor vessel and get a close-up look at the Maine coast as we glide past majestic lighthouses, seaside mansions, world famous windjammers, and visiting yachts. We often see seals, porpoises, osprey, and bald eagles. We are an ideal trip for children, and encourage them to help us haul up our lobster traps and discover what’s inside. Don’t forget your camera!

We are now available for private charters YEAR-ROUND, aboard our new vessel M/V Periwinkle !

 For reservations or questions, please call (207) 236-6672

*Please note-all cruises subject to change due to private events and/or weather conditions.  We suggest calling or booking ahead to ensure your seat and make sure the cruise you are interested in will be taking place.

We are in our off-season but available for private charters! For information, please call (207) 236-6672

Forgot to grab a souvenir Lively Lady t-shirt on your cruise?

No worries! We have them available for local pick-up/delivery or shipping. Adult & kid sizes available and several color options! For questions and/or orders please email [email protected] or give us a call at (207) 236-6672

Eco-Tour (wildlife cruise & lobstering demonstration)

On this 2-hour tour we will travel across the bay to a remote seal habitat.  On our way we look for birds and marine life.  In the past we have seen wildlife such as sunfish, porpoise, grey seals, harbor seals, eagles, osprey, coots, terns, eider ducks and many many more.  In addition, we will see Curtis Island Lighthouse and haul a lobster trap to see whats lurking on the bottom of the ocean floor.   

Lobstering & Lighthouse Cruise

During this hour long (11:15am trip is 1-hour 15 minutes) trip we will observe two lighthouses while learning the history of the bay.  We also haul a lobster trap and explain how its done on the rugged Maine coast.  Passengers can just sit back and take it all in or gear up and get the true experience!

Morning Lobster Haul

Lobsters, lobsters, lobsters....come join us for an hour and a half of lobster fishing!  Watch (and help) us haul, bait & re-set our lobster pots. This once in a lifetime experience is sure to be a blast-don't forget your camera and sense of adventure!

Sunday Morning Lighthouse Cruise

Join us for a fantastic 3-hour cruise through Penobscot Bay past some of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. Fully narrated with opportunities to view 5 lighthouses from the water, this is one of our most popular trips!

Grindle Point Lighthouse Excursion

Join us on Sunday afternoons for a special opportunity to tour a historic lighthouse only accessible by boat.  We will cruise past Curtis Island Lighthouse in Camden and head to the island of Islesboro where we will depart from the Lively Lady and explore Grindle Point Lighthouse and the Sailor's Museum! During this narrated 3-hour adventure, information about the lighthouse and wildlife is provided by our experienced tour guide and Captain.

Looking for Lodging?

Stay at the Glenmoor By The Sea   just down the road in Lincolnville and save 10% on one night of your lodging reservation  AND 10% on your cruise aboard the Lively Lady if booked as a package. Please click HERE  for their reservation page or call Glenmoor By The Sea at 207-236-7905. 

Are you a member of the U.S. Lighthouse Society?

If so, we participate in the Lighthouse Passport Program and have stamps on board to fill a page in your book!  During our Sunday Morning Lighthouse Cruises we see 5 lighthouse, sure to please any lighthouse enthusiast.  Feel free to call us with any questions regarding the Passport Program (207) 236-6672

Click here  to view the U.S Lighthouse Society website

Charter the Lively Lady or Periwinkle

Planning a wedding in Camden?  We charter our vessels regularly for rehearsal dinners, photography sessions, family gatherings, cocktail hours or just a quick tour of Camden for your guests .   Also available in the off-season for island transportation or a winter cruise of the Bay!

New England Boating joined us aboard for some lobster fishing. Check it out.

Camden Harbor Cruises • On the Public Landing in Camden, Maine 207.236.6672 • [email protected]

BOOK 7+ DAYS IN ADVANCE AND RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL 5% OFF YOUR ONLINE BOOKING. ENTER PROMO CODE EARLY AT CHECKOUT

Camden Windjammer Sunset Sail

Evening departures vary by season

SAILS JUNE 15TH - OCTOBER 11TH

The exact departure time varies with the sunset. Please check your confirmation for your departure time. Boarding Starts 1/2 Hour Before. Please bring a valid, government issued photo ID. To purchase alcoholic beverages we must verify your age.

Tour Includes

• Sail Past Local Camden and Penobscot Bay Landmarks
• Take Part in Hoisting the Sails and a Turn at the Wheel
• Cocktails, beer, wine, and soft drinks are available for purchase

Maine sunsets are

Best appreciated from the water....

aboard the romantic Appledore II. This tall ship is limited to 49 passengers for an intimate sailing experience. She is a modern windjammer with luxurious accommodations and plenty of seating. The wide decks allow you to walk around with ease and take in all the views.

The Appledore II was hand-built in 1978 at the Gamage Shipyard in Maine in the finest shipbuilding tradition. She proved her seaworthiness by circumnavigating the globe. She continues to sail a 2,000 mile ocean voyage twice a year between her summer home of Camden, Maine and winter home of tropical Key West, Florida.

Camden, Maine is a quintessential New England coastal town, dating back to 1768. Your sunset sailing cruise departs from Bayview Landing, at the heart of Camden Harbor. Mariners consider Camden Harbor one of the most beautiful harbors in New England, framed by the mountains greeting the sea. Feel the sense of adventure as the crew hoists the sails. Participate in this age-old tradition by joining in and help raise the sails. Take a turn at the wheel and experience the exhilaration of captaining a traditional wooden ship.

Your Downeast Maine boat tour takes you past Curtis Island Light, helping navigate seafarers since 1836, and into Penobscot Bay. As we sail along the rugged coastline, take in the majestic mountains, only one of two places along the Atlantic seaboard where the mountains drop off into the ocean. With the painted sky as your exquisite backdrop, gaze at the magnificent mansions, historic inns and elegant yachts. Watch for porpoises, eagles and ospreys. Along the jagged rocks, look for seals and shorebirds, including guillernots, cousins to puffins.

Quench your thirst with cocktails, beer, wine and soft drinks, all available for purchase during your sailing cruise.

Gather close to your loved ones as the fiery sun sets over Mount Battie and toast the end of an amazing day. Against the darkened sky, the blink of the Curtis Island Light guides us back home to Camden Harbor.

Schooner Features

You will be sailing on the Appledore II, a two-masted 86′ windjammer featuring:

• Wide decks with room to walk around
• Generous seating
• Only 49 passengers for an intimate sail
• A spacious head (bathroom)

What To Bring

Grab your hat, sunglasses, camera and love of adventure. We will do the rest!

Please bring a valid, government issued photo ID. To purchase alcoholic beverages we must verify your age.

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Join Us for a Two Hour Sail on Schooner Lazy Jack

We sail daily june to october from the public landing in scenic camden, maine.

Sail with us on a Two Hour Day Sail or your own Private Charter and experience the unforgettable beauty of Penobscot Bay aboard Schooner Lazy Jack. Help raise the sails, take a turn at the helm or just relax and enjoy every impression of Penobscot Bay.

Keep an eye out for seals, porpoise, bald eagles and osprey while viewing the magnificent scenery. We'll see private yachts and working boats, lighthouses, islands and wildlife along Maine's rocky coast. Your sail will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Please visit our FAQ page for more information about your sail, what to wear, how to get to Camden and other questions.

Children of all ages are welcome. Dogs are welcome too provided they are friendly, well behaved and on a leash.

Looking for a place to stay or more information about Camden? Please visit Camden Area Information .

Lazy Jack is the only schooner sailing out of Camden that was built by her previous captain and owner.

2024 is our Twenty-sixth year sailing on Lazy Jack in Camden!

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Schooner Lazy Jack