Schooner Stephen Taber Cruises
Schooner Stephen Taber Cruises
Schooner Stephen Taber Cruises
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Driven only by Atlantic Ocean breezes, the Stephen Taber sets sail from Rockland Harbor, taking guests on four and six day windjammer sailing adventures on the legendary Maine coast. The Schooner Stephen Taber is the oldest sailing vessel in continuous service in the United States, and a National Historic Landmark.
Rockland, Maine
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
232 reviews
Excellent
225
Very good
5
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
2
Alice R
San Diego, CA12 contributions
Aug 2020 • Solo
I recently went on back-to-back trips on Schooner Ladona during these covid times. Once the uncertainty of constantly changing travel plans was worked out and I boarded the boat, all the covid madness melted away.
Ladona has been fully refinished on all surfaces, and is sparkling clean, and easy for the crew to clean during and between trips. Aside from hot water sinks and soap in the cabins and heads, there are ample hand sanitizer bottles placed about the boat to use before getting coffee, dining, or whenever. This and the procedures the crew uses for cleanliness, made me feel perfectly safe, and it wasn't long before I and the other guests were on our way to forgetting about covid for the days to come.
One surprising element was that the number of guests was greatly reduced. Ladona's usual complement is 17, but on both trips there was only 4 guests each, with 5 crew to see to all our needs! The amazing and cheerful chef, Anna, runs a scrubbed clean galley, and plates all the food to each guest's dietary choices. What a treat to enjoy what felt like a private yacht!
If you can feel comfortable to travel to Rockland, Maine this summer/fall, I highly recommend this wonderful, magical trip on Schooner Ladona. I am told there is much availability on all the remaining trips this year
Ladona has been fully refinished on all surfaces, and is sparkling clean, and easy for the crew to clean during and between trips. Aside from hot water sinks and soap in the cabins and heads, there are ample hand sanitizer bottles placed about the boat to use before getting coffee, dining, or whenever. This and the procedures the crew uses for cleanliness, made me feel perfectly safe, and it wasn't long before I and the other guests were on our way to forgetting about covid for the days to come.
One surprising element was that the number of guests was greatly reduced. Ladona's usual complement is 17, but on both trips there was only 4 guests each, with 5 crew to see to all our needs! The amazing and cheerful chef, Anna, runs a scrubbed clean galley, and plates all the food to each guest's dietary choices. What a treat to enjoy what felt like a private yacht!
If you can feel comfortable to travel to Rockland, Maine this summer/fall, I highly recommend this wonderful, magical trip on Schooner Ladona. I am told there is much availability on all the remaining trips this year
Written August 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Byron Y
1 contribution
Aug 2020
While under full sail all you could hear was the wind and the movement of the sails as they responded. Extremely peacful and calming as the ship took flight. The cusine was incredible morning, noon and night along with choices of wine as you watched the sun set in the evening. If you ever wanted a real adventure and experience while being part of the crew to hoist the main sail and lift the anchor this is it and we will no doubt go again in the future.
Written September 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lisa Lisa
Methuen, MA4 contributions
Aug 2020
I highly recommend sailing on the Schooner Stephen Taber when you can! The schooner is beautiful, the food was beyond amazing (I don't know how Chef Bethany created the unbelievably delicious gourmet food that she did in a small galley kitchen with a wood fired stove!), the crew was friendly, fun and knowledgeable, the scenery was breathtaking and the sailing was some of the best I have ever experienced. Also made some life-long friends. What more could you ask for?
Written September 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cgrn
Baltimore, MD95 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
My husband and I carefully chose The Schooner Stephen Taber from all the ships from the Maine Windjammer Association. We especially liked that The Taber was celebrating it’s 150th birthday this year! Yes the accommodations (cabins) are very small . We were in an L shaped room and could only stand up at our sink. Surprisingly the beds were super comfortable. The linen was nice, mattress firm, and each bed had a LL Bean wool blanket. At night the cabin temperature was great for sleeping.
You spend your days with your fellow shipmates up on deck. Everyone was pleasant. Several of us brought books but they were quickly closed as we enjoyed the company and scenery more than the books. On one particular day when the weather did not cooperate, Captain Noah took us a shore to a quaint little seaside town to explore.
Ask our bathroom scale how good the food on the Taber was! The food that comes out from the galley was nothing short of delicious. It was amazing what the chef could prepare from a wood burning oven. I also don’t want to forget the nightly cheese and wine spread and desserts. Truly spoiled.
We chose a four night sail which we felt was the perfect amount of time. You spend the first night in the harbor and set sail the next morning.
COVID concerns were easily addressed as each passenger had a negative test within 72 hours of boarding. My husband and I took an OTC test the day before. You are also outdoors the majority of the time.
If you are considering an adventure sailing vacation but have questions/concerns give Jane a call from the Stephen Taber. Not sure you sailing on a 150 year old ship is for you? Take a look at their sister ship, The Ladona.
You spend your days with your fellow shipmates up on deck. Everyone was pleasant. Several of us brought books but they were quickly closed as we enjoyed the company and scenery more than the books. On one particular day when the weather did not cooperate, Captain Noah took us a shore to a quaint little seaside town to explore.
Ask our bathroom scale how good the food on the Taber was! The food that comes out from the galley was nothing short of delicious. It was amazing what the chef could prepare from a wood burning oven. I also don’t want to forget the nightly cheese and wine spread and desserts. Truly spoiled.
We chose a four night sail which we felt was the perfect amount of time. You spend the first night in the harbor and set sail the next morning.
COVID concerns were easily addressed as each passenger had a negative test within 72 hours of boarding. My husband and I took an OTC test the day before. You are also outdoors the majority of the time.
If you are considering an adventure sailing vacation but have questions/concerns give Jane a call from the Stephen Taber. Not sure you sailing on a 150 year old ship is for you? Take a look at their sister ship, The Ladona.
Written October 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christi Z
Hudsonville, MI9 contributions
Jul 2020 • Couples
Move this trip to the top of your bucket list! Booked on the recommendation of friends who went with us, and it was the best sail of our summer. Our first trip to Maine — felt like this has to be the only way to experience it. Full relaxation with the ability to unplug, relax and adventure all at the same time. Saw variety of coastline, islands, lighthouses, sea life, lobsters, coves, harbors and beaches. Amazing food with a lobster dinner in the beach sand.
Captain Noah and crew were hospitable, entertaining, and willing to answer our questions and provide education in sailing, rigging, sea life, you name it. They were a perfect balance of professional and fun.
Small, cozy cabins with comfortable linens & pillows. Americana music by the Charlie Nobles Band each evening was perfect.
Who wouldn’t want the great historical experience of riding on a floating museum — the oldest documented continuously operating sailing vessel in the US? 🙋🏼♀️
Best part of our trip? Our friends chose this trip to get married, and Captain Noah and crew made it memorable and just right for them.
Best vacay in a social distance era. Support the Maine Windjammer Association and keep these schooners sailing.
Captain Noah and crew were hospitable, entertaining, and willing to answer our questions and provide education in sailing, rigging, sea life, you name it. They were a perfect balance of professional and fun.
Small, cozy cabins with comfortable linens & pillows. Americana music by the Charlie Nobles Band each evening was perfect.
Who wouldn’t want the great historical experience of riding on a floating museum — the oldest documented continuously operating sailing vessel in the US? 🙋🏼♀️
Best part of our trip? Our friends chose this trip to get married, and Captain Noah and crew made it memorable and just right for them.
Best vacay in a social distance era. Support the Maine Windjammer Association and keep these schooners sailing.
Written July 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Camper22206677025
1 contribution
Jun 2021
My dad, sister and I went on the Schooner Stephen Taber last week for a 3 day sailing adventure and we had the BEST time! The theme of our trip was Gourmet Gastropub and Chef James from Portland Maine's Frog & Turtle Restaurant made a guest appearance to cook up delicious dinners and brunch on the last day (including fresh pasta and donuts made right on the boat!)
Everything about our three day trip on the Schooner Stephen Taber was fantastic! The views, the crew, the sailing and the food were all top-notch. Being on the boat in its 150th season was also extra special! The weather was perfect our first day of sailing, a bit rainy the second day and foggy the third day - so we got it all! Even when the sun wasn't shining, the sailing and views were very peaceful and exciting to see.
Our crew was made up of Captain Noah, Karina, Erica, William, Oscar, Chef Randy (for breakfasts and lunches) and Chef James (for dinners and brunch). They were all incredibly accommodating and friendly. They happily answered any questions I had about how the 150 year old sailboat works, Maine in general and how they like living on a sailboat for a few months of the year.
As other reviews mention, the cabins are very small with little headspace, but by the end of the trip you get used to it and find them actually very cozy and comfortable.
I look forward to getting aboard the Schooner Stephen Taber again soon!
Everything about our three day trip on the Schooner Stephen Taber was fantastic! The views, the crew, the sailing and the food were all top-notch. Being on the boat in its 150th season was also extra special! The weather was perfect our first day of sailing, a bit rainy the second day and foggy the third day - so we got it all! Even when the sun wasn't shining, the sailing and views were very peaceful and exciting to see.
Our crew was made up of Captain Noah, Karina, Erica, William, Oscar, Chef Randy (for breakfasts and lunches) and Chef James (for dinners and brunch). They were all incredibly accommodating and friendly. They happily answered any questions I had about how the 150 year old sailboat works, Maine in general and how they like living on a sailboat for a few months of the year.
As other reviews mention, the cabins are very small with little headspace, but by the end of the trip you get used to it and find them actually very cozy and comfortable.
I look forward to getting aboard the Schooner Stephen Taber again soon!
Written July 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JarLaur
Somerville, MA4 contributions
Oct 2020
Are you crazy about old wooden boats? Does the thought of hauling lines, coiling and splicing, weighing anchor, polishing brass, and scrubbing decks set your heart singing? Well, this is the boat for you! On the other hand, if you prefer to lounge in a deck chair and drink wine and watch as others do all the work and the clouds stream by, this is also the boat for you!
This was our third trip on the Stephen Taber and I can't say enough how wonderful the experience is. The crew and captain are fabulously accommodating and will let you do as much or as little sailing as you like. The food is second to none- you will scratch your head wondering how such a cutting-edge culinary feast can be prepared solely on a wood burning cast iron stove in a tiny galley kitchen. The scenery is likewise amazing- rugged craggy islands, bald eagles, porpoises right off the bow wave, and even the rain is punctuated by an occasional rainbow.
This was our third trip on the Stephen Taber and I can't say enough how wonderful the experience is. The crew and captain are fabulously accommodating and will let you do as much or as little sailing as you like. The food is second to none- you will scratch your head wondering how such a cutting-edge culinary feast can be prepared solely on a wood burning cast iron stove in a tiny galley kitchen. The scenery is likewise amazing- rugged craggy islands, bald eagles, porpoises right off the bow wave, and even the rain is punctuated by an occasional rainbow.
Written October 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
igcetra
Boston, MA39 contributions
Aug 2020
What is it like? 4 days out at sea during the summer, all sunny days, and eating incredible food with the backdrop of the islands and sea of Maine. The crew was extremely helpful and attentive (especially during these times of Covid19 they certainly have the correct process in place).
There are bathrooms on board, there's hot freshwater for showers, there's paddleboards and boating for activities, you can swim, you can sail, you can eat and drink (and exceptionally delicious), lobster bakes on the beach, hikes during the day, relaxing, reading, there's so much to do and we are already looking forward to our next trip.
There are bathrooms on board, there's hot freshwater for showers, there's paddleboards and boating for activities, you can swim, you can sail, you can eat and drink (and exceptionally delicious), lobster bakes on the beach, hikes during the day, relaxing, reading, there's so much to do and we are already looking forward to our next trip.
Written August 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helen J
19 contributions
Sep 2021
There is nothing in the world better than 6 days on the Stephen Taber! The 150 year old schooner, Captain Noah and the crew are beyond belief. This is not a trip for those looking for a cruise ship experience with hundreds of passengers and huge staterooms. Cabins are small and cozy The Taber holds just over 20 passengers so everyone gets to know everyone else. Life aboard is laid back and relaxed with no agenda except good company, excellent sailing, fantastic views and wonderful food. Our 1st trip on the Taber was 25 years ago with the present captain's parents as captains. Both trips were equally wonderful. We live 3000 miles away and would return yearly if able.
Written September 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joel Drury
1 contribution
Sep 2020
Six nights on the Stephen Taber from Sept 13-19, 2020: It was the bucket list trip of a lifetime! A great Captain, a wonderful crew and a dozen of the finest shipmates one can imagine made the trip absolutely great! This adventure ranks right up there at the top of all-time coolest vacations ever. The boat is beautiful, the food was 5-Star, and I will be back to do it again! Don't deny yourself one of the most fun things in life and book a trip on this magnificent old Schooner. Its no won der so many of the passengers I was with were back for multiple trips; one lady was on cruise no. 14, another on 12, and a few more were back for the 2nd, 3rd or 4th time! Well, I can tell you I intend to play catch up! Every trip is different, but one thing is for sure; you'll have so much fun sailing on this grand old boat!
Written September 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Looking at the possibility of taking a three night cruise this coming June 2020. Has anyone ever taken or heard of a comparable cruise experience?
This one sounds amazing but the dates may conflict with a family wedding :( Just curious about other awesome cruises? Many thanks in advance,
Written December 6, 2019
The Ladona, sister ship of the Stephen Taber, does wine and dine cruises as well. I'd suggest visiting the SailMaineCoast website and clicking on 'specialty cruise calendar. The cruies where the fleet all gather together are unforgettable experiences as well. This happens with The Gam, The Great Schooner Race, Wooden Boat Sail In, and Windjammer Festival. I've done both the Gam and the Great Schooner Race - both lots of fun.
Written December 6, 2019
jbart67
Wilbraham, Massachusetts
Stephen,
We are traveling to the area for the 15th and 16th of oct. First question is are there 1 Day cruises that time of the year? Second if there are 1 Day cruises, is it better to do an evening or day sail during that time of year?
Jim B
Written September 11, 2017
I know this is an older post, but I just saw it. For anyone else wondering about a one day sail.... The Schooner Olad does great one day excursions and sunset sails out of Camden.
Written December 6, 2019
Marta M
Premia de Mar, Spain
Buenos dias,
Mi marido y yo iremos a Boston del 1 al 18 de julio y nos gustaría navegar por la costa de Maine 2/3 días. Tienen programado por esas fechas algún crucero y el precio?
Muchas gracias,
Marta
Written May 6, 2017
Hi
How many quests do you accommodate please- four of us are interested in a September cruise - thinking 5 or six nights.
What itinerary are you able to do in that amount of time?
Thx you Susan
Written February 15, 2017
Hi there! Thanks for the question. We carry 22 guests and we would love to take you sailing. Please go to our website to view our sailing schedule. TripAdvisor is not letting me add the link- sorry!
Best,
Jane
Written February 15, 2017
We are planning the 4 day cruise with friends on the September 25 fall foliage sailing. Wondering about what clothing will be needed (heavy jackets, rain gear?) for sailing at this time in Maine
Thank you.......
Written January 6, 2016
Hi, Maryann,
I think we spoke by phone shortly after you posted this question, but for everyone's benefit: Maine weather is variable and unpredictable.The temperature out on the water is usually about ten degrees cooler than ashore. Dress in layers and be prepared to bundle up or peel off.
Here's the list of what to bring that we send to our guests:
* Sneakers or deck shoes (2 pairs), wool socks (2 pairs)
* CASUAL clothing – remember, pack lightly!
* A heavy sweater or two
* Bathing suit, extra towels for the shower (we provide a towel & washcloth)
* A hat and sunglasses, sunscreen, mosquito repellent
* Waterproof rain gear – a jacket and pants – no rain ponchos, they are hazardous & next to useless
* Flashlight
* Binoculars; cameras
In June and September, the sailing is brisk and the weather is cool. Bring woolen or fleece (not cotton) sweaters, slacks, woolen socks, gloves, hats, and long johns.
Written January 13, 2016
Hi there,
I am sorry that I am just answering this now. I did not know this page was here. We have a 6 day trip August 2-8. The cost is $1198 per person. We still have space. Please call 800.999.7352 with more questions. Thanks! Jane Barnes, Schooner Stephen Taber
Written April 13, 2015
Hi there,
I am sorry that I am just answering this now. I did not know this page was here. We have a 6 day trip August 2-8. The cost is $1198 per person. We still have space. Please call 800.999.7352 with more questions. Thanks! Jane Barnes, Schooner Stephen Taber
Written April 13, 2015
Loretta L
Stuart, Florida
What is available in August for a weeklong cruise? Two senior females who need some comfort and access to bathroom who have done one cruise a few years ago on J&E out of Rockland.
Written March 8, 2015
Hi there,
I am sorry that I am just answering this now. I did not know this page was here. We have a 6 day trip August 2-8. The cost is $1198 per person. We still have space. Please call 800.999.7352 with more questions. Thanks! Jane Barnes, Schooner Stephen Taber
Written April 13, 2015
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