
Schooner Eastwind
Sail the Maine coast on a classic schooner, enjoying stunning sunsets and engaging stories from a passionate crew. An unforgettable maritime adventure...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better sunset views

Schooner Eastwind
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better sunset views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sail the Maine coast on a classic schooner, enjoying stunning sunsets and engaging stories from a passionate crew. An unforgettable maritime adventure.
"We had an amazing time on the Schnoor Eastwind. Sarah and Christina were so much fun to talk with!"

🌅 Book Sunset Cruises Early
These are the most popular tours! Secure your spot on the Schooner Eastwind for a magical evening on the water.
🧥 Layer Up for Comfort
Maine coast can be breezy. Bring layers, even on warm days. Blankets are provided, but extra warmth is wise.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Cruise Magic
Kennebunkport Harbor
Experience breathtaking coastal sunsets from the deck of a classic schooner. Unforgettable views and a romantic atmosphere.

Help Raise the Sails
Onboard Schooner Eastwind
Get hands-on with maritime history! Guests can assist the crew in raising the sails for an interactive and memorable experience.

Knowledgeable & Friendly Crew
Onboard Schooner Eastwind
Learn about local wildlife, history, and stories from an engaging and passionate crew. They enhance the journey with their expertise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Prime Spots
Dress for Coastal Maine Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Book Sunset Cruises Early
These are the most popular tours! Secure your spot on the Schooner Eastwind for a magical evening on the water.
🧥 Layer Up for Comfort
Maine coast can be breezy. Bring layers, even on warm days. Blankets are provided, but extra warmth is wise.
🍹 Enjoy Onboard Drinks
A nice drink menu is available. Cocktails are a treat and enhance the relaxing cruise experience.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Adventure
Great for all ages! Kids love helping with sails and learning from the crew. Ensures everyone can see and enjoy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Book Sunset Cruises Early
These are the most popular tours! Secure your spot on the Schooner Eastwind for a magical evening on the water.
🧥 Layer Up for Comfort
Maine coast can be breezy. Bring layers, even on warm days. Blankets are provided, but extra warmth is wise.
🍹 Enjoy Onboard Drinks
A nice drink menu is available. Cocktails are a treat and enhance the relaxing cruise experience.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Adventure
Great for all ages! Kids love helping with sails and learning from the crew. Ensures everyone can see and enjoy.
📸 Capture Stunning Views
The scenery is beautiful! Don't forget your camera to capture the coastline, wildlife, and sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Schooner Eastwind for its amazing experiences, highlighting the knowledgeable and fun crew, the beautifully maintained boat, and the breathtaking coastal views, especially during sunset cruises. The opportunity to help raise the sails and the onboard drink options are frequently mentioned positives. Some minor concerns include parking challenges in Kennebunkport during peak season.
"We had an amazing time on the Schnoor Eastwind. Sarah and Christina were so much fun to talk with, and they are having a great time out there on the water. They are knowledgeable about birds and stories of the land/buildings. There were four of us (including a four year old and a seven year old) and we all loved it. I would highly recommend it to anyone coming to Maine. It’s so important to get out on the water. And it is so fun to be riding on a beautifully strong boat."
Annie Baron
"The staff were very welcoming and friendly, and the cocktails were a nice treat. Even though the weather didn’t fully cooperate for our “sunset” cruise, we still got some beautiful views of the area. Highly recommend."
Tori Peppler
"We had an amazing sunset cruise with the Appledore crew. The schooner was very neat and well kept. Crew was friendly and knowledgeable. There is a nice drink menu that offers something for everyone. 10/10 would recommend to anybody."
Clay Kesler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Schooner Eastwind typically departs from Kennebunkport Harbor. Parking can be challenging in peak season, so consider arriving early or using ride-sharing services. Check their official website for the most current departure location.
Parking availability varies. Some public lots are available, but they can fill up quickly, especially during summer and for sunset cruises. Research local parking options in Kennebunkport before your visit.
Public transport options directly to the harbor might be limited. It's best to check local Kennebunkport transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services for convenient access to the departure point.
Many visitors drive to Kennebunkport. If coming from further afield, consider flying into Portland International Jetport (PWM) and then renting a car or taking a shuttle service.
The dock area and boarding process should be manageable, but it's always wise to contact Schooner Eastwind directly to discuss specific accessibility needs for boarding the schooner.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pricing can vary based on the type of cruise (e.g., sunset, scenic). Reviewers mention it's a 'great price for the experience.' Check the official Schooner Eastwind website for current ticket prices and booking information.
Tickets are best purchased directly through the official Schooner Eastwind website or authorized booking partners. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular sunset tours.
Tours typically run throughout the day, with sunset cruises being a highlight. Operating hours and specific departure times vary by season. Always check the schedule on their website.
Yes, booking in advance is strongly advised, particularly for sunset cruises, as tours can sell out. This ensures you get your preferred date and time.
Cancellation policies can vary. It's important to review the terms and conditions when booking, especially regarding weather-related cancellations or personal changes of plans.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Cruises generally last around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery, learn from the crew, and relax on deck.
Absolutely! Many guests have the opportunity to help raise the sails, which is a highlight for many, especially children and those interested in sailing.
You might spot various seabirds, seals, and other marine life native to the Maine coast. The knowledgeable crew can point out interesting species.
Yes, it's a fantastic experience for families. Reviewers with young children found it very engaging, with opportunities for kids to participate and see clearly.
Expect beautiful coastal views as the sun sets, a relaxing atmosphere, and the chance to enjoy drinks. Even if the weather isn't perfect, the views can still be stunning.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While full meals are not typically served, Schooner Eastwind offers a nice drink menu with cocktails and other beverages available for purchase.
It's best to check the specific policy with Schooner Eastwind directly. Some tours allow light snacks, while others may have restrictions.
Kennebunkport has a variety of dining options, from casual seafood shacks to more upscale restaurants, located near the harbor. You can enjoy a meal before or after your cruise.
The drink menu usually includes a selection of cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options, providing something for everyone to enjoy during the cruise.
Many reviewers found the onboard drinks to be a nice treat that enhanced their cruise experience, making it a worthwhile addition.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset cruises offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. However, any time of day provides beautiful coastal scenery and unique perspectives of the schooner.
You can capture stunning shots of the Maine coastline, lighthouses, local wildlife, the historic schooner itself, and the vibrant sunsets over the water.
Generally, photography is encouraged. However, be mindful of other passengers and avoid using flash photography in a way that might disturb them or the wildlife.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the schooner and expansive views. Consider a polarizing filter for water and sky.
Experiment with different angles from the deck. Photos of the sails against the sky, the boat cutting through the water, and the crew in action make for dynamic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Book well in advance, especially for sunset cruises. Dress kids in layers as it can get breezy. Consider bringing snacks, though drinks are available for purchase. The relatively short duration of the cruise is perfect for maintaining children's attention spans. It's a highly recommended way to create lasting family memories on the Maine coast.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Enjoying a cocktail from the onboard drink menu while taking in the views adds to the special occasion. The knowledgeable and friendly crew contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, allowing couples to focus on each other and the stunning scenery. Bringing a light jacket or sweater is advisable for comfort as the evening cools.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Tips for saving: Look for weekday tours which might have slightly lower demand. Consider packing your own light snacks if you want to save on onboard purchases, though the drink menu is reasonably priced for a special treat. Booking in advance can sometimes help secure better rates or ensure you don't miss out on a tour that fits your budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Schooner Eastwind Experience
The sunset cruises are a standout, offering breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Even if the weather isn't perfect, the coastal scenery remains captivating. The crew's attentiveness, including providing blankets on cooler evenings, ensures a comfortable journey. The onboard drink menu adds a touch of luxury, making it a perfect outing for couples or anyone looking to relax and soak in the maritime atmosphere.
For families, Schooner Eastwind is a hit. The engaging nature of the tour, combined with the chance to participate, keeps even young children entertained and able to see everything. Many visitors regret not booking more than one trip, wishing they had discovered this gem earlier in their vacation. It's a highly recommended way to connect with the natural beauty and maritime heritage of Maine.
Navigating Kennebunkport's Waters
While direct public transport to the harbor might be limited, ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative for reaching the departure point. For those traveling from further afield, flying into Portland International Jetport (PWM) and then arranging ground transportation is a common approach. Always confirm the exact departure location with Schooner Eastwind when booking, as it's crucial for a smooth start to your sailing adventure.
When planning your visit, remember that the Maine coast's weather can be unpredictable. Even on sunny days, a cool breeze often sweeps in from the ocean. Dressing in layers is key to ensuring comfort throughout the cruise. While the crew is known to provide blankets, having a windbreaker or warm sweater is a practical tip shared by many happy passengers.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit