Boating and Sailing in Maine

Sailing and boating opportunities abound along Maine's 5,500+ mile coastline. Board a sightseeing boat and take in the coast's rugged beauty and bountiful aquatic life, charter a sailboat or motor yacht and explore Maine's charming harbors and secluded coves, or tour the state's outlying islands on one of the local mail boats or ferries. Whale, seal, and puffin watching tours are quite popular among Maine's visitors and make great fun for the entire family.

The Maine coast offers sailors numerous bays and deep harbors, rocky islands, and spectacular scenery along it's 5,000 miles of surf-crashing coastline. Cruising the coast allows sailers a close-up glimpse of sea birds, harbor seals, porpoise, and several types of whale.

Geological features range from sandy beaches and tidal estuaries along Maine's southern coast to rockbound, granite cliffs from Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park north to Quoddy Head lighthouse and Campobello Island. Coastal islands offer many options for exploring, anchoring and camping. Many of these islands are located in the mid coast region of Maine where the Penobscot River flows ito the Gulf of Maine. Boothbay Harbor, Camden, Rockland, Deer Isle, Vinalhaven Island, Monhegan Island are all popular destinations in this region. Maine offers bountiful opportunities for both novice and experienced sailors.

Maine's interior boasts 6,000 freshwater lakes and ponds offering numerous possibilities to the vacationer. Board a pontoon boat for a relaxing sunset cruise or wildlife sightseeing tour. Power boats are allowed on the larger lakes, for those seeking speed, and provide the horsepower for waterskiing, fishing, and scenic cruising. Trailer your own boat or check out one of the area's marinas or many rental facilities.

For those with a more adventurous spirit, try a Windjammer sailing trip along Maine's rockbound coast and experience the cruise of a lifetime! Over 3,000 islands dot the rugged coastline, giving Maine windjammer sailors ample opportunities for exploring Maine's breathtaking seascapes. Visit the remote coastal villages of Maine, hike uninhabited islands, or just sunbathe and take in the beautiful scenery! Some cruises even let passengers help the crew in sailing these magnificent vessels! One day, 3 day, and 6 day trips are typically offered by most of the operators, which are based in the Camden, Rockport and Rockland areas.

The majority of these ships were built at the turn-of-the century and have been beautifully restored to their historic specifications! The windjammer sailing season runs from mid-May to mid-October. These cruises are quite popular, and it is recommended that you book your reservations well in advance!