Summer Sail in Maine -- Great Value, Great time

U.S. vacation that offers value but doesn't scrimp on the fun and adventure quotient.

Two schooners operating out of Rockland, ME offer sailing vacations with just the right blend of high seas adventure and downeast relaxation.  A windjammer cruise on either Schooner American Eagle or Schooner Heritage includes breathtaking scenery, a hearty dose of salt air and cool breezes, home-cooked food and the chance to see New England in a brand new light.  

Schooner American Eagle, owned and operated by Captain John Foss, was built in 1930 as part of the famed Gloucester fishing fleet.  Rebuilt by Captain Foss in 1986, the American Eagle is a fast sailing schooner and has won the Gloucester Schooner Race seven years running.  The American Eagle has an auxiliary engine allowing her to take extended cruises including 11-day itineraries to the Canadian Maritimes.

One of the newest windjammers to sail out of Maine, Schooner Heritage was designed and built by Captains Doug and Linda Lee in 1983 in the traditional mode of a coasting schooner. The Heritage sets sail this summer celebrating her 25th anniversary on the water.  To mark this occasion, the Lee's will release the CD "And That's a True Story," Captain Doug's funny and heartwarming tales of growing up in coastal Maine. "

Possible trips

--Great Sail -- In this economy, windjammer cruises offer a true value.  Trips range from $495-$945 per person (depending on duration) and include everything (three hearty meals per day!).  Where else can you get a vacation that offers a blend of adventure, relaxation and fun at such a great price?

--Sustainable vacation on the high seas – this is the ultimate eco-friendly trip with wind power, beach clean ups on coastal islands, consumption of local foods and respectful, no-impact appreciation for the natural environment of the coastal population (including wildlife).

--Social life aboard the windjammer cruise – the art of taking a group of virtual strangers living in tight quarters and turning them into a jolly group by journey's end.

--Cruising cuisine – cooking for 25 passengers plus crew on a wood stove doesn't mean that quality or quantity suffers.  Fresh herbs, home baked breads and sweets, and an authentic lobster bake on the beach are all on the menu. 

--All in the Family -- One of the only working husband/wife captain duos, the Lees are great profile material.  They've raised two daughters on board and juggled life on the mainland with life at sea.