The views are beautiful when you are standing on shore looking out at the water. Flipping the viewpoint and looking back at land adds a whole new perspective. Of course, you are closer to marine wildlife and increase your chances of spotting them. You also get the opportunity to study the terrain in a way that is difficult to do when you are on shore. You can see the ebb and flow of hills, you will see how the water has created inlets, and you can take postcard worthy photographs of town. All of that while enjoying the sea spray, the sun, and the rocking of the waves.
You do not have to own a personal boat to enjoy Boothbay Harbor from the water. You can book a private charter on a sailboat through Linekin Bay Sailing.
What kind of trips does Linekin Bay Sailing offer?
That is really up to you! There are set rates for full day cruises with lunch or half day sails. Have something else in mind? They are delighted to help you create your own custom cruise. Contact them to see what possibilities they can accommodate. Some people want to go swimming. Some want to visit islands for a hike. Some want to see lighthouses up close. Charter cruises offer the opportunity to build your own sailing adventure.
What kind of boat is it?
Linekin Bay Sailing charters are aboard a 44-foot cutter-rigged sloop. The sailboat is named Radiant. We believe the name has two meanings: 1) the boat is exquisitely beautiful, and 2) time aboard is better than words can describe. Radiant is equipped with creature comforts such as a marine head (bathroom), ample galley (kitchen), spacious salon (living room), and two cabins (bedrooms). The rich wood interior provides classic beauty to the radiant boat.
How many people are on the boat?
Radiant can host six guests on the charter cruises. Since you are reserving the boat, you can decide if you want a romantic sunset cruise for two or if you want to bring family or friends along with you. We find that many couples vacation together and this is a unique activity to enjoy with friends. Past guests have described a day on Radiant as a “full vacation in one afternoon.”
Where do I meet the boat?
Radiant is kept in the harbor and the captain is happy to pick up Five Gables guests at our dock. The dock is right across the street from the inn. This is obviously convenient if you have scheduled an early morning sail. It is also wonderful when you are tired and ready for a shower after an afternoon adventure.
Do I need to know how to sail?
You do not need to know how to sail. If you want to sit back and just enjoy the ride, you are welcome to do that. If you want to learn a little about sailing and get involved in the trip, the crew is happy to answer questions about the rigging and provide tips on sailing. Remember that this is your charter cruise and the crew is excited to provide you with the best day on the water.
Is safety gear provided?
Yes, life jackets are provided for all guests aboard Radiant.
What should I bring with me?
It is recommended that guests bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Rubber-soled shoes that fit well and cover your toes are going to be best for navigating the boat deck. If you plan to get in the water, do not forget a swim suit and a towel. While it may a warm and sunny day, the wind and water can make it feel colder outside; a sweater or fleece jacket is suggested in case you get chilly.
Who is the captain of the boat?
While this is your charter trip, professional staff are also on board to make sure the trip is enjoyable. Captain Craig Collins has been sailing in Maine for more than 30 years and has a US Coast Guard Captain’s license. He has also spent time sailing all along the East Coast, to Bermuda, and throughout the Caribbean Islands. The other crew members have impressive skills that they bring including knowledge about wooden boat building, time spent working at the Maine Maritime Museum, and emergency medical technician skills. They are all familiar with Boothbay and excited to share their local knowledge.
Editor’s Note:
We enjoyed getting to meet Captain Craig this spring and talk about Radiant and his different ideas for cruises. However, we were all a little surprised when Captain Craig showed up at the dock one sunny afternoon and told us to come over and experience a sailing cruise for ourselves. Captain Craig was not exaggerating, it was amazing. He took us for a sail around several of the barrier islands, two lighthouses, lots of porpoises and a quick trip into Boothbay Harbor. It was absolutely fantastic. Any time you can get on the water and explore Maine’s rocky coastline is special and there are lots of commercial cruises that are excellent. However, this is an authentic open ocean sail and calling it fantastic does not do the experience we had justice.
