Salem: Historic Schooner Sailing Cruise

Stepping aboard the Schooner Fame, guests embark on a captivating journey through Salem’s rich maritime history. As a full-scale replica of an American privateer from the War of 1812, this stunning vessel offers a unique opportunity to experience the region’s past firsthand. During the 1.5-hour cruise, passengers can raise sails, take the tiller, and marvel at the breathtaking views of historic forts and lighthouses. Knowledgeable crew members share insights that bring the area’s seafaring legacy to life, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Salem’s enduring connection to the open waters. With both adventure and education on the agenda, this sailing excursion promises an unforgettable experience for all who seek to …

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Salem.

Key Points

• The Schooner Fame offers a 1.5-hour maritime history experience, priced from €38.93 per person, with scenic views and opportunities to participate in sailing activities.

• Passengers can enjoy iconic rum punch and other beverages while learning about the Schooner Fame’s history as a War of 1812 American privateer that captured over 20 vessels.

• The vessel is a full-scale replica of the original Schooner Fame, providing an immersive experience that reflects the ship’s storied past and Salem Sound’s role in piracy and privateering.

• The cruise experience features knowledgeable crew, who offer insights into the maritime history, and a variety of onboard amenities to enhance the sailing journey.

• The cruise is unsuitable for children under 5 or individuals with mobility issues, and parking can be challenging, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Booking Details

The Salem Sailing Cruise aboard the Schooner Fame offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the maritime history of the region.

Priced from €38.93 per person, this 1.5-hour activity allows participants to enjoy scenic views of regional landmarks, help raise the sails, and learn about the vessel’s historical significance.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available. Guests can also enjoy an onboard bar with a selection of beverages, including rum punch, as they sail along Salem Sound.

Suitable for most, the cruise isn’t recommended for children under 5, individuals with mobility issues, or those prone to vertigo.

Experience Highlights

Sailing along the scenic Salem Sound, passengers can take in regional landmarks from the water, including historic forts, lighthouses, and picturesque waterfront homes.

The cruise offers the unique opportunity to lend a hand and help raise the sails or even take the tiller, providing an engaging and hands-on experience.

Onboard, guests can enjoy a selection of beverages, including the iconic rum punch, as they learn about Salem Sound’s storied history, from its piracy days to its role in the War of 1812.

With the knowledgeable crew’s guidance, passengers gain valuable insights into the area’s vibrant maritime past.

Vessel Information

Featuring a full-scale replica of the first American privateer schooner from the War of 1812, the Schooner Fame boasts a rich historical legacy.

This iconic vessel was known for capturing over 20 vessels before being lost in the Bay of Fundy in 1814. Guests can depart from the Pickering Wharf Marina in downtown Salem, Massachusetts, with up to five sailings daily.

The Schooner Fame offers:

• A glimpse into the maritime history of Salem Sound, including piracy and privateering
• Opportunities for guests to participate in raising the sails or taking the tiller
• An onboard bar serving a selection of beverages, including the signature rum punch
• Scenic views of regional landmarks, such as forts, lighthouses, and waterfront homes
• A captivating experience that captures the spirit of the vessel’s storied past.

Onboard Amenities

Aboard the Schooner Fame, guests can enjoy a variety of onboard amenities that enhance the sailing experience. The vessel’s bar offers a selection of beverages, including the popular rum punch, allowing passengers to sip on refreshing cocktails as they take in the coastal views.

Plus, guests have the opportunity to actively participate in the sailing experience by helping to raise the sails or even taking a turn at the tiller, providing a hands-on connection to the ship’s historic operations.

These onboard features, combined with the knowledgeable commentary from the crew, ensure that visitors have an engaging and immersive journey along the Salem Sound.

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Accessibility and Restrictions

While the Schooner Fame offers an immersive sailing experience, there are some important accessibility considerations and restrictions that prospective passengers should be aware of.

The vessel isn’t suitable for children under 5, individuals with mobility impairments, or those with vertigo.

Metered parking is available, but can be challenging on weekends and in October.

Passengers are allowed to bring sunglasses, hats, snacks, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and closed-toe shoes, but outside alcohol, drugs, and coolers are prohibited.

• Children under 5 aren’t permitted
• No mobility impairments or vertigo allowed
• Metered parking can be challenging
• Sunglasses, hats, snacks, and closed-toe shoes allowed
• No outside alcohol, drugs, or coolers

Parking and Logistics

The Schooner Fame departs from Pickering Wharf Marina in downtown Salem, Massachusetts, with up to five sailings daily.

Parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends and during the busy month of October. Metered parking is available, but visitors should plan to arrive early to secure a spot.

The crew recommends allowing extra time to find parking and get to the departure point.

While the parking situation may require some advance planning, the historic schooner cruise provides a unique and memorable experience on the waters of Salem Sound.

Customer Ratings and Reviews

Passengers consistently praise the Salem Sailing Cruise aboard the Schooner Fame, awarding it an impressive 4.8-out-of-5 rating based on 41 customer reviews.

Reviewers highlight the cruise’s key strengths:

• Friendly, knowledgeable crew who engage passengers throughout the journey
• Opportunities for children to participate, such as helping raise the sails
• Stunning views of regional landmarks, including forts, lighthouses, and waterfront homes
• Educational insights into Salem Sound’s historical significance, including piracy and privateering
• Overall excellent value, especially when weather conditions are favorable

The cruise’s historical significance, coupled with its engaging and informative nature, make it a highly recommended activity for visitors to Salem, Massachusetts.

Historical Significance

A key draw of the Salem Sailing Cruise is the historical significance of the Schooner Fame, which serves as the vessel for the excursion.

This full-scale replica is modeled after the first American privateer schooner from the War of 1812. The original Fame captured over 20 vessels before being lost in the Bay of Fundy in 1814.

Guests have the opportunity to learn about Salem Sound’s role in piracy and privateering during this pivotal conflict.

The Schooner Fame’s rich history adds an educational element to the cruise, providing an immersive experience that transports passengers back in time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity Expected for the Crew?

Gratuity is generally expected for the crew on this historic schooner sailing cruise. The recommended tip is 15-20% of the total ticket price to acknowledge the crew’s efforts in providing an engaging and informative experience.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

According to the information provided, guests are allowed to bring their own snacks on the cruise, but outside alcohol is prohibited. The cruise offers an onboard bar with a selection of beverages, including rum punch.

Is There a Dress Code for This Activity?

The cruise has no formal dress code. Guests can wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable, closed-toe shoes. However, it’s recommended to dress in layers as the weather on the water can be cooler than on land.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available on the Schooner?

There are no restroom facilities available onboard the schooner. Passengers are advised to use the restrooms at the departure point, Pickering Wharf Marina, before embarking on the 1.5-hour sailing cruise.

How Often Do You Sail if the Weather Is Inclement?

The schooner sails daily, though frequency may decrease during inclement weather. The crew closely monitors conditions and makes adjustments to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers, regardless of the weather.

Recap

The Salem: Historic Schooner Sailing Cruise aboard the Schooner Fame offers a unique opportunity to explore Salem Sound’s rich maritime history. Guests can enjoy the 1812-era vessel, raise sails, and learn from knowledgeable crew members. With stunning views, educational experiences, and an adventurous atmosphere, this 1.5-hour cruise provides a captivating way to discover the area’s nautical past.

You can check if your dates are available here: