BOOTHBAY WINDJAMMER DAYS
June
Weather and conditions permitting, many windjammers join in a Parade of Sail into Boothbay's small inner harbor to enjoy an evening of festivities and fireworks. Anchor off Cabbage Island Tuesday evening, go ashore for a lobster bake, and then sail into the harbor and participate in events Wednesday.
GREAT SCHOONER RACE
Tuesday of July 4 Week Imagine being surrounded by more than 20 windjammers from Maine and the East Coast. For more than 25 years,
this has been the largest annual gathering of tall ships in North America. Anticipation grows following evening entertainment, and then early on the morning of the race, the captains meet to assess the wind and tide and choose a course. At 11:00 a.m., the cannon blasts, and the race is on! Close sailing and friendly competition provide exhilaration during the race. Crowds cheer as the vessels cross the finish line. SCHOONER GAM
June Monday's radio chatter includes discussion about what might be the best anchorage where the fleet can converge. Some secluded harbor will be transformed with tall masts and wooden sailing ships, crowding the port much as they did 100 years ago or more. This is an opportunity to see close up, and perhaps even board, all of the area windjammers. |
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 WOODEN BOAT SAIL-IN
September The fun begins with informal racing in Eggemoggin Reach Tuesday afternoon. By 5 p.m., all participants are anchored at the waterfront of the Wooden Boat School and magazine publishing headquarters in Brooklin, Maine. Passengers may go ashore for a reception with food and music.
 CAMDEN WINDJAMMER WEEKEND
Labor Day Weekend The fleet gathers in picturesque Camden Harbor reminiscent of the days when coastal schooners lined the waterfront. Festivities include a parade of sail, talent show, and fireworks on Friday.
Saturday and Sunday offer nautical demonstrations, maritime competitions, open house on the schooners and other activities. A Saturday evening contra dance is arranged on the public landing and a music of the sea concert is held in the park on Sunday evening.
We suggest that passengers coming off the Grace Bailey's 5-day trip on Friday morning stay in the area and participate in the weekend. Those sailing for the weekend trip will board an hour earlier than usual and participate in the parade of sail, return to Camden Harbor for a lobster feast and Friday night's festivities. They will set sail again early Saturday morning and spend the night at some remote island cove, returning Sunday. We also encourage those boarding Sunday night to come early and enjoy Camden's special event. |
