Salem: Schooner Fame Sailing Tour on Historic Salem Sound

Summary

Sail historic waters past forts & lighthouses with hands-on moments

You’ll step aboard a real schooner in Salem, help raise the sails if you want (or just relax), sail past old forts and lighthouses with locals sharing stories, and maybe even take the helm for a bit. Expect salty air, laughter from the crew, and time to just soak up New England’s coast in motion.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the Fame at Pickering Wharf, and right away there was this old wood smell — not musty, just sort of salty and honest. Captain Mike (who looked like he could’ve sailed in 1812 himself, in a good way) grinned and waved us aboard. The sails were still down, so everything felt quiet except for seagulls arguing over something invisible. I didn’t expect to actually help, but before I knew it I was hauling on a rope with two strangers while one of the crew shouted encouragement. My palms stung a little — not in a bad way.

Once we got moving out into Salem Sound, the boat tilted just enough to make my stomach flutter. You could see Marblehead off to one side, Beverly to the other, and every so often someone would point out a lighthouse or tell some half-remembered story about privateers or pirates (I honestly can’t keep them straight). The wind picked up and you could taste salt if you licked your lips. Nobody gave a formal speech — it’s not that kind of tour — but if you asked about anything, someone always had an answer or at least a funny guess. There was this moment when I tried steering (with supervision) and everyone cheered even though I’m pretty sure we zigzagged more than we should’ve.

I liked how relaxed it felt — some people just sipped drinks and watched clouds slide by while others leaned over the rail squinting at whatever fort we passed. The sun kept slipping behind clouds then coming back out again, so sometimes it was chilly and sometimes I wished I’d worn shorts instead of jeans. At one point I noticed my hands smelled like rope and sea air; weirdly comforting. We were out there for maybe 90 minutes but it felt both longer and shorter than that. Back at the dock, nobody rushed off — everyone lingered like they didn’t want to break whatever spell we’d been under.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail Salem Sound on Schooner Fame

• Board Schooner Fame at Pickering Wharf
• Raise sails and steer the boat
• Sail Salem Sound past forts and lighthouses
• Enjoy views of Salem, Beverly, and Marblehead
• Learn about fishermen, traders, and privateers

Top questions

How long does the Schooner Fame sailing tour last?

The tour typically lasts around 90 minutes per sail.

Where does the sailing tour depart from?

The tour departs from Pickering Wharf Marina in downtown Salem.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on board the Fame schooner.

Can children join the Fame sailing tour?

Children under five are not allowed on this tour.

Is this a narrated tour?

No, it is not formally narrated but crew members share stories if asked.

Are service animals permitted?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

What areas do you see during the sail?

You’ll sail around Salem Sound past Salem, Beverly, Marblehead, forts, and lighthouses.

Do I need any sailing experience?

No experience is needed; you can participate as much or as little as you like.

What’s included

Your trip includes boarding at Pickering Wharf Marina in downtown Salem with up to 90 minutes of sailing time on the Fame schooner; there’s a restroom on board for comfort throughout your journey.