WHO:
• The Maine Windjammer Association includes 12 traditional tall ships, ranging in size from 46 to 132 feet on deck. Seven of the windjammers are National Historic Landmarks. All of the vessels are privately owned and operated.

• Each windjammer carries between 6 and 40 guests and 2-10 crew members.
Windjammer cruises are for people of all ages.

WHERE:
• The windjammer fleet hails from the ports of Rockland and Camden, located in the mid-coast region of Maine.

• Transportation is available via the Portland International Jetport, with limousine service to the Rockland/Camden area. Commuter air service to the area is also available from Boston. Bus and Amtrak train services are available from Boston and Portland. Parking is available.

• The Maine coast, with more than 3,000 islands, is considered one of the best and most beautiful sailing areas in the world. Each night the windjammers drop anchor in a peaceful port or harbor where guests may go ashore and explore.

WHAT:
• Guests may participate in all aspects of windjamming, including hoisting sails, taking a turn at the wheel, navigating, or helping out in the galley if they choose.

• “Schooner-cooked” meals are served family style. Menu items include fresh seafood, roasts, garden salads, chowder and homemade breads and desserts. A lobster bake on a Maine island is featured on every six-day trip and on most shorter cruises.

• Accommodations are simple, consisting of single, double and triple cabins, all with comfortable mattresses, fresh linens and plenty of warm blankets. All of the vessels offer hot showers.

• Seasickness is rarely a problem, due to the easy motion of the vessels and the protected waters they cruise.

• All vessels undergo rigorous U.S. Coast Guard inspections and carry ship-to-shore radios and other electronic navigational devices.

HOW:
• For a set of brochures and DVD, contact the Maine Windjammer Association at 1-800-807-WIND; or click here.

• Windjammer vacations are affordable: weekend to six-day cruises range from $400 to $1100 per passenger, all meals included. Charter groups and families are welcome.