Camden Maine: Sunset Sail on Windjammer Tall Ship

Summary

Sunset colors over Penobscot Bay from a tall ship deck in Camden

You’ll feel the wind fill your sails as you help hoist them alongside locals on Camden’s Appledore II tall ship. Glide past historic lighthouses, watch seals play in Penobscot Bay, and sip a drink while golden light spills over Mount Battie—a sunset moment that lingers long after you dock.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what the wind actually feels like when it fills those big white sails? I didn’t, until I found myself standing on the deck of the Appledore II in Camden Harbor, hands wrapped around a thick rope, listening to our crew shout encouragement as we all hauled together. The air smelled sharp—like salt and pine needles—and there was this low hum of excitement from everyone, even the kids bundled up in their parents’ arms. Our guide, Sam (who grew up just down the road), pointed out how the mountains seem to tumble right into Penobscot Bay here. It’s true—you look up and there’s Mount Battie looming over everything, then you glance down and realize you’re floating right where sea meets stone.

I’ll admit, I thought a “sunset sail” might be a bit… well, touristy. But as we glided past Curtis Island Light (which has been blinking out at boats since 1836), something shifted. The light changed—suddenly everything was gold and pink and kind of unreal. You could hear gulls squabbling somewhere near the rocks, and every so often someone would spot an osprey or a seal bobbing along beside us. There were drinks for sale—local beer if you wanted it—and people started loosening up, swapping stories about where they’d come from or why they’d picked this particular day trip in Camden. Someone tried steering for a minute (with supervision!) and laughed so hard they nearly dropped the wheel.

The best part? Just before sunset really hit, everyone sort of fell quiet at once. Maybe it was the cold breeze or maybe we were all just watching that fiery line drop behind Mount Battie—I’m not sure. I remember thinking how old this ship is (built in 1978 but feels older), how many times it’s made this run between Maine and Key West, and how small we all seemed out there with nothing but water and sky ahead. When the Curtis Island Light blinked us back toward Camden Harbor, I felt oddly grateful for that little beacon. Still do.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset sailing cruise from Camden Harbor

• Depart from Bayview Landing
• Crew hoists the sails
• Help raise the sails
• Take a turn at the wheel
• Sail past Curtis Island Light
• View mountains and coastline
• Watch for porpoises, eagles, seals
• Enjoy drinks available for purchase
• Toast sunset over Mount Battie
• Return guided by Curtis Island Light

Top questions

How long is the Camden sunset sail?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but it’s timed to catch sunset over Penobscot Bay from Camden Harbor.

Is there food or drink available on board?

Cocktails, beer, wine, and soft drinks are available for purchase during your sailing cruise.

Where does the tour depart from?

The sunset sailing cruise departs from Bayview Landing in Camden Harbor.

Can children join the sunset sail?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; infants can ride in prams or strollers with specialized seats available.

Will I see wildlife on this boat tour?

You may spot porpoises, eagles, ospreys, seals, shorebirds like guillemots (cousins to puffins), especially along the coastline.

What landmarks will we see during the sail?

You’ll pass Curtis Island Light and have views of Mount Battie plus historic inns and yachts along Penobscot Bay.

Is this suitable for people with limited mobility?

The wide decks allow easy movement; suitable for all physical fitness levels according to tour info.

What’s included

Your evening includes a classic windjammer sunset cruise departing from central Camden Harbor with local crew guiding you past Curtis Island Light and into Penobscot Bay; drinks are available for purchase on board before returning to shore under lighthouse glow.