There is something timeless about seeing Bar Harbor from the deck of a sailing ship. The windjammer trip is a 1.5 to 2 hour sail on Frenchman Bay with a licensed captain, and it is one of the most relaxing and best-reviewed activities on the waterfront, rated around 4.1 stars from hundreds of reviews on the booking platform. The ship departs from the Bar Harbor pier area, raises its sails once clear of the harbor and cruises quietly past the Porcupine Islands, with views of Cadillac Mountain, the cliffs of the park and the lights on Egg Rock. Crew members share stories of the schooner, the bay and the long history of sail on this coast. Depending on conditions you may see seals sunning on ledges, porpoises, gulls, cormorants and eagles, and the wind can be brisk, so dress accordingly. Passengers can usually help haul a rope or simply sit on deck, and many operators offer a sunset sail or a cruise that coincides with the best light. Because it is slow and quiet, the sail suits all ages, from older travelers who prefer a gentle ride to children who enjoy the novelty of a tall ship.
What it feels like
After the noise of town, the sound of the sails filling and water against the hull is a pleasure. The ship moves at a stately pace, so the experience is more about atmosphere than adventure. You may travel along the shore of Bar Island, around the Porcupine Islands and out toward the open bay, and the views of the town and mountains from the water give a new sense of the scale of Mount Desert Island.
Photography opportunities are excellent in the soft light of morning or evening. Sailing trips can be cancelled or shortened by weather or wind, so check the policy and have a back-up plan in case of fog or a calm day when the ship runs under motor.
Planning your sail
Book a time slot that suits your schedule, remembering that the 1.5 to 2 hour duration includes boarding and disembarking. Morning sails tend to be calm and bright; afternoon sails can be breezier; sunset sails are the most romantic but also the most popular. Wear warm layers, a windbreaker, non-slip shoes and a hat, and bring sunscreen and a camera.
Food and drink rules vary, with some sails offering a bar or snacks and others asking guests to bring their own, so check at booking. Check whether the vessel is wheelchair accessible if mobility is a concern, as tall ships often have steep steps and a narrow gangway.
How it compares
If you want wildlife focus and the chance of whales, choose a motor-powered whale watch. If you want a quiet, scenic experience under sail, the windjammer is the better choice. It is also a good rainy-weather activity if the rain is light, since you are on a boat and visibility is often better than you might expect, and a good fit for cruise ship visitors who want a short, memorable excursion before heading back to the tender.
Pair the sail with a stroll along the Shore Path or a lobster roll, and you have a complete half day on Frenchman Bay.
What to expect
The experience
A guided sail under canvas on Frenchman Bay with a licensed captain, passing the Porcupine Islands and Egg Rock with views of Cadillac Mountain.
Best time
Calm mornings or clear evenings; summer through early fall.
How long
About 1.5 to 2 hours including boarding.
Tips
Dress in layers, wear non-slip shoes, check cancellation policy for weather and book sunset sails early.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A relaxing, scenic hour or two on the water.
- Families
- Good for children who can sit still and enjoy the ship.
- Couples
- A romantic sunset sail is one of the best couples activities in town.
- Pair with
- A lobster roll on the waterfront or the Shore Path.
- Time needed
- Half a day with boarding and downtime.
Good questions
How long is the sail?+
The trip lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours. Allow a few extra minutes for boarding and getting back to shore.
Will I see wildlife?+
Often. Seals, seabirds and sometimes porpoises or eagles are possible on Frenchman Bay, though sightings vary.
What if the weather is bad?+
Trips may be shortened, rescheduled or cancelled for safety. Check the policy and conditions before booking.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, it is a gentle ride, though young children need supervision on deck.
What should I wear?+
Layers, a windproof jacket, a hat and non-slip shoes. It is cooler on the water than in town.