Schooner Yacht Heron
Schooner Yacht Heron
5
Boat ToursEco ToursSightseeing ToursNature & Wildlife ToursDay Trips
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
Sail the Maine Coast aboard Schooner Yacht HERON, a 65' John Alden designed Classic Schooner Yacht. Experience the thrill of sailing a classic wooden schooner. HERON is fast and steady as she sails among the pristine islands of Penobscot Bay. The Schooner Yacht HERON is truly the finest daysailer in the fleet. Quality sails offered daily from Rockport. Enjoy an educational Eco history wildlife tour with Bonnie, our environmental educator. Captains Twig and Bonnie can tell you all about the building of the HERON from John Alden's 1928 plans. For a relaxing sail with friends, try our Sunset Sail with happy hour snacks. The tranquility of Rockport Harbor at sunset is stunning. BYOB or purchase drinks on-board. Special Fireworks sails, Windjammer Parade of Sails and Photography cruises scheduled throughout the summer. Private sails, group and custom lunch and dinner charters also available for groups up to 30. HERON is family built, owned and operated by the Bower family of Camden, Maine.
Rockport, 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
517 reviews
Excellent
462
Very good
42
Average
9
Poor
3
Terrible
1
Stephen M
45 contributions
Jul 2022
One of our favorite things to do when in Rockland is sailing aboard the Schooner Heron. We sailed 2x with them in 2020 and the first thing we did when we got back to Rockland this year was to look at the weather and book a trip with them. I picked an afternoon with an expected 14mph wind, so I knew we would sail smartly.
I was surprised that Taylor was captaining the boat this trip instead of Twig, but his boat handling was conservative and flawless. Of coarse Bonnie was aboard to do her excellent narration regarding the history of Rockland’s lime, timber, ice, shipbuilding and lobster industries and also tell us all about the lighthouse, islands, and seals we saw. Twig and Bonnie’s personable adult daughter Rachel was also on board as crew. Bonnie and Rachel handled hoisting, trimming, reefing and tacking the sails as a well-oiled team. We started out conservatively with the fore mast and main mast sails both reefed, but were later able to shake out the reef on the fore mast sail for a little more speed without heeling the boat. We were able to sail near Robinson’s Rock and saw that there were several seals sunning them selves there.
We sailed midweek on a Thursday and there was lots of room for everybody on board. Taylor and Rachel cheerfully answered my many questions about the boat, the boat’s offshore passages to and from the Caribbean each year and about local events. This was the first time sailing for the family seated across from us, but they had a good time. There was another group forward of us that pretty much kept to themselves so I didn’t have a chance to chat with them, but they seemed to be enjoying themselves too. I did a bunch of small boat pleasure sailing and medium sized keelboat racing while I was at the University of Texas. I don’t own a sailboat so the only sailing I have done since has been on Hobie Wave catamarans at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. I really enjoy chances to sail on bigger boats like the Schooner Heron.
The Schooner Heron sails three trips daily from Rockport Harbor: Private morning sail, an afternoon Educational Eco Tour, and a Happy Hour Sunset Sail. Custom charters are also available on request. There is free parking in the harbor lot.
Whether you have sailed before or just want to try it on vacation, I highly recommend sailing on the Schooner Heron as a solo, couple or family activity. You will have fun and be entirely comfortable with the ship and crew. They will treat you right. We’re back in Rockland in a couple of weeks and will surely sail with them at least once more before heading back to Texas.
I was surprised that Taylor was captaining the boat this trip instead of Twig, but his boat handling was conservative and flawless. Of coarse Bonnie was aboard to do her excellent narration regarding the history of Rockland’s lime, timber, ice, shipbuilding and lobster industries and also tell us all about the lighthouse, islands, and seals we saw. Twig and Bonnie’s personable adult daughter Rachel was also on board as crew. Bonnie and Rachel handled hoisting, trimming, reefing and tacking the sails as a well-oiled team. We started out conservatively with the fore mast and main mast sails both reefed, but were later able to shake out the reef on the fore mast sail for a little more speed without heeling the boat. We were able to sail near Robinson’s Rock and saw that there were several seals sunning them selves there.
We sailed midweek on a Thursday and there was lots of room for everybody on board. Taylor and Rachel cheerfully answered my many questions about the boat, the boat’s offshore passages to and from the Caribbean each year and about local events. This was the first time sailing for the family seated across from us, but they had a good time. There was another group forward of us that pretty much kept to themselves so I didn’t have a chance to chat with them, but they seemed to be enjoying themselves too. I did a bunch of small boat pleasure sailing and medium sized keelboat racing while I was at the University of Texas. I don’t own a sailboat so the only sailing I have done since has been on Hobie Wave catamarans at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. I really enjoy chances to sail on bigger boats like the Schooner Heron.
The Schooner Heron sails three trips daily from Rockport Harbor: Private morning sail, an afternoon Educational Eco Tour, and a Happy Hour Sunset Sail. Custom charters are also available on request. There is free parking in the harbor lot.
Whether you have sailed before or just want to try it on vacation, I highly recommend sailing on the Schooner Heron as a solo, couple or family activity. You will have fun and be entirely comfortable with the ship and crew. They will treat you right. We’re back in Rockland in a couple of weeks and will surely sail with them at least once more before heading back to Texas.
Written August 3, 2022
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.
Jonathan H
Gray, ME66 contributions
Oct 2021
Any day on the coastal waters of Maine is a good day. We had perfect weather, a good group of fellow travelers and and excellent Captain and mate and saw all the things that they say they will show you which included close up views of a lighthouse and sea life including seals and porpoises. We also say several of the older schooners out sailing as well. The mate gave an excellent narration of the older days in Rockland and Lime making as well as pointing out various features and marine life. Only a little more wind would have made it any better.
Written October 6, 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.
Thanks for the review! We are glad the sail was everything you had expected. Every day on the bay is a different experience but all are pretty amazing on board the Schooner Heron. Hope to see you sailing again one day.
Written January 7, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stefan F
1 contribution
Sep 2023 • Family
The absolute highlight of our 3 days in Camden were the two (!!) sailing trips on the Heron out of nearby Rockport harbor. We planned only one but added a second trip on the next day after the first sail was so awesome. My wife and I enjoyed a midday and sunset sail, with captains Twig and Bonnie and their crew telling entertaining stories while making us feel very safe and comfortable. The schooner Heron is the most beautiful ship we’ve ever been on and knowing the the owners built it themselves adds to the thrill of being on it for a few hours and getting to know them.
Written September 23, 2023
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.
Thanks for the great review Stefan! Look forward to next years sail with you.
Written January 7, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
cheurich
Mountainville28 contributions
Jul 2022
During our family reunion, we booked the Schooner Heron for a private Eco Sail. Seven of our group of 25 were children, aged 4-10. My husband and I had sailed on the Heron ten years ago and wanted our extended family to have this experience. We were delighted that Bonnie and her husband, Twig, still own and captain the boat, with their now-grown daughter as first mate. As a long time resident of the area, Bonnie knows the waters and the surrounding islands and coastline well. It was wonderful to hear her stories and appreciate her knowledge of Rockland's history. It was also inspiring to see Bonnie and her daughter handle the rigging and the sails so effortlessly. The sail was definitely a highlight of our trip.
Written July 12, 2022
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.
Charlestonian
Mount Pleasant, SC10 contributions
Aug 2022
The Heron experience is the best on Penobscot Bay. We enjoyed the afternoon sail with Bonnie giving an educational and interesting narrative filled with local history and lore. Twig is a very capable and pleasant captain who navigated to a seal sighting as part of a beautiful and safe trip. The Heron is a special schooner built by Twig, who is a master boat builder among his many talents.
Don't miss this one!
Don't miss this one!
Written August 8, 2022
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.
Wheelbo78
2 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
We had a lovely sunset sail aboard Heron. She’s a beautiful boat. The departure point - Rockport Harbor is stunning. It is also easy to get too, far less crowded than Camden and parking was easy and free.
The skipper and first mate were great, approachable, engaging and patient with my many questions about the boat and it’s construction.
The skipper and first mate were great, approachable, engaging and patient with my many questions about the boat and it’s construction.
Written September 20, 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.
Thanks for your review of the Heron! Glad you enjoyed the sail and our special harbor as well. Look forward to taking you sailing again some day.
Written January 7, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Meghan D
2 contributions
Jul 2023
My family of 4 sailed on a beautiful, clear night and had a great time enjoying the weather, sipping on rum punch, and watching the sunset (tip: check the weather when booking, as Maine can be foggy during the summer and you may not catch a sunset). We sat in the captain's area and chatted with the crew and fellow passengers, learning a lot about Rockport and the surrounding islands. We even spotted a few porpoises. Definitely recommend!
Written July 24, 2023
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.
Laura F
Portland, Maine, United States7 contributions
Aug 2021
We had a spectacular afternoon sail on the Heron schooner. The wind and weather were perfect for a day out in Penobscot Bay. The hosts were informative and filled with wonderful history and stories of Rockport and the surrounding area. They are skillful sailors who handle their craft with ease. Thoroughly enjoyable. I would highly recommend.
Written August 27, 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.
Thanks for your review of the Heron! We like it when wind and weather are perfect, That is when Heron can show her best form. It is truly a unique experience and we are glad that you enjoyed it. Hope to see you sail Heron again.
Written January 7, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
HenryN3
Webster, MA4 contributions
Jun 2022
We motored out of the dock space with Captains Bonny and Twig at the helm. Once we made in out into open water the sails were hoisted Heron's dance in the wind began. The speed of Heron is thrilling. A wonderful experience provided by an equally wonderful family. This adventure turned into the highlight of our visit to Rockland Maine.
Written June 29, 2022
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.
Mariana H
2 contributions
Jul 2021 • Couples
Absolutely was a perfect sail and a gorgeous night. The owners/crew were super friendly and knowledgeable about sailing and the area. The Heron is absolutely gorgeous and crafted, built and maintained with love but skilled craftsmanship. Would absolutely go again and would highly recommend. Rockport is a gorgeous town that is not over run by tourism and its natural beauty is intact and untouched. Bonus: the rum punch is amazing 🥂
Written July 13, 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.
Thanks for the review! Glad you had fun sailing with us. Look forward to seeing you again.
Written January 7, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Debra
Mitchell, Nebraska
My sister, I & our husbands are taking our mom to Maine this Oct to honor what our dad wanted to do before he passed. She is 82, but pretty healthy & able. Questioning if this would be a type of boat shed feel comfortable/safe being on? We would love to do a coastal nature/history tour, but never been on sailboats (lake boats for us.lol). Just wondering if a great sit & enjoy or is a slightly physical enjoyment?
Written April 15, 2024
Do they allow children (older than one year) on board? Is it recommended?
Written August 23, 2020
Is there plenty of parking where the Heron docks? Do they charge for parking?
Written August 19, 2018
Yes I was told there is a head but did not use it myself. It is a complete working yacht.
Written August 20, 2017
I have comments that say you do not give any narrative on your luncheon cruise? We have never been to this area and information about what we are seeing would be great!
Written September 4, 2015
Bonnie S
Rockport, Maine
I would suggest you take our afternoon eco sail if you wanted the full narrative of the history of Rockport, Indian Island Lighthouse, lobstering and the wildlife of the area. This is our focus on the afternoon eco sail. We will be glad to answer questions on any of our other sails but don't do a regular narration. You can read about the sailing options at our website.
Written January 26, 2018
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