Aug. 19 - Sailing on Penobscot Bay

"I sail not to escape life, but so life does not escape me.” –Unknown 

On our last full day with our family we went for a sail on the Schooner Surprise on Penobscot Bay. We couldn't have asked for a prettier day for a sail. It felt wonderful to be back on the water in Maine. It's one of my favorite places we've cruise.

The 57' long Schooner Surprise was built in Rockport, MA in 1918 for Martin Katternhorn. He used it as a racing and cruising yacht until his death in 1959. A series of owners continued to sail her throughout the East Coast and the Caribbean until she was purchased by Ed and Cindy Benedict who restored and certified her as a passenger vessel. She entered the passenger trade in Falmouth Harbor and was brought to Camden in 1986. In 1991, Surprise was entered on the National Register of Historic Places, which recognizes her as an important part of our country’s maritime heritage. 

Everyone had a chance to help raise the sails.

Enjoying the ride.

Curtis Island Lighthouse sets on Curtis Island at the entrance to Camden Harbor. We took our dinghy out to the island in 2016.

Stan and each of the grands had a chance to steer the boat. Actually Stan was at the helm for 20 minutes or more...I think he really enjoyed it.

Coming back into Camden Harbor.

The beautiful windjammers docked in Camden Harbor. We were here in 2016 for the Windjammer Festival. It was so fun.