We were pleasantly surprised at the nice experience we had on this schooner based in Camden. The weather was perfect for the first of October, and the mild wind was perfect to talk with the other passengers, and mostly listen to Capt. Jack and his stories. The boat is well kept, and clearly we were not their first passengers, as... More

The folks who run this seem very nice, but be prepared for last minute cancellations, even when other cruises are going out. They called us to alert us on the day we were scheduled to say the weather looked uncertain. Fair enough. We checked in later in the day and re-scheduled to the following day so we'd be more likely... More

We sailed with Captain Jack and First Mate Barbara in the beginning of September and had a delightful sail. Both are very knowledgeable of the area as well as the sea life so it was a very informative excursion. The USS Normandy was in the harbor that day and Captain Jack even knew all about the battleship. In addition, they... More

Captain Jack and First mate Barbara provide a very enjoyable 2-hour sail of the harbor., with warm hospitality, great tales and delicious cookies! Sunset cruise is very enjoyable.

The 2 mast sailer, "The Surprise", is a wonderful way to spend 2 hours on the water in Camden Maine. Jack and Barbara, the owners and operators, have run this sail for 29 years. They have it down pat. In addition to providing a relaxing afternoon, they provide a great insight into the community of Camden and the surrounding area.... More

Our two hour sail on this vintage schooner was a very enjoyable experience. Captain Jack and his daughter Heidi made us feel very welcome and, because of the small number of passengers that can be accommodated, there was a feeling of intimacy that is lacking in larger boats. Javk and Heidi provided ad-hoc narration of the cruise, pointing out the... More

Such a lovely day aboard the Schooner Surprise. This was a quick, solo trip to Maine and a sailing trip was on the checklist. This 2-hour sail definitely fulfilled and exceeded my expectations. Camden is a beautiful, sleepy harbor town and the Harbormaster station, where you board the Surprise, is right in the heart of the town. Since my trip... More

Everyone knows Camden Harbor is picturesque from shore, but wait'll you head out onto Penobscot Bay on the Schooner Surprise. After a few short but entertaining safety tips from Captain Jack, the elegant 94-year-old two-masted windjammer gently sweeps past the harbor's yachts, cruisers, kayaks and working lobster boats towards Curtis Island. Jack (Captain Jack} and Barbara (First Mate) Moore are... More

We were in Maine for a week and one of our top priorities was to go sailing. The Schooner Surprise is a great choice amongst the several different vessels in Camden. It's not too big so it's easy to converse with Captain Jack and his wife. Jack had me help him hoist one of the sails which was fun. We... More