Schooner Surprise

Based at 1 Bay View Street in Camden, Maine, Schooner Surprise offers public and private sailing excursions on the waters of Penobscot Bay. This tour operator distinguishes itself by providing varied sailing experiences on two distinct vessels, catering to different group sizes and preferences. The company has garnered a stellar reputation, reflected in consistently high customer ratings, pointing to a well-managed operation focused on client satisfaction. The core of their business revolves around two-hour sailing tours that showcase the coastal scenery, including lighthouses, wildlife, and the Camden Hills.

The Fleet: A Tale of Two Vessels

Schooner Surprise operates a fleet of two boats: the flagship Schooner Surprise and the Sloop Anjacaa. This dual offering is a significant advantage, allowing potential customers to choose the experience that best suits their needs. Understanding the differences between these vessels is key to setting the right expectations for your trip.

The Schooner Surprise

The Schooner Surprise is a historic two-masted racing schooner, built in 1917-18 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This vessel provides a more traditional windjammer experience. With a capacity for up to 18 passengers, it's suited for families and larger groups who want to enjoy a classic sail. Despite its capacity, reviews frequently mention that there is ample cushioned seating and the boat does not feel crowded. Onboard, passengers are encouraged to participate as much or as little as they like, from helping the crew raise the sails to simply relaxing with a picnic and a bottle of wine. This interactive element is a recurring theme in positive feedback, making the journey more engaging than a passive tour.

The Sloop Anjacaa

For those seeking a more intimate or faster-paced journey, the company offers trips on the Sloop Anjacaa. This vessel carries a maximum of six passengers, making it ideal for private charters, small groups, or couples looking for a more personal outing. The Anjacaa is noted for being a quicker boat, responding beautifully to strong winds and offering a more thrilling ride. Reviews highlight this option for its exclusivity and the heightened sense of adventure. It's a key part of their Camden Maine excursions, providing a valuable alternative to the larger schooner experience.

The Crew: A Cornerstone of the Experience

Across countless reviews, the most consistently praised aspect of Schooner Surprise is its crew. Captains and mates are repeatedly described as friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable, and accommodating. Names like Taylor, Trudy, Ian, and Laird are mentioned personally by customers, indicating a memorable and positive interaction. This personal touch elevates the experience beyond a simple boat ride. The crew is adept at storytelling, sharing local history, pointing out landmarks like the Curtis Island Lighthouse, and identifying wildlife such as seals, seabirds, and even the occasional dolphins. Their professionalism and passion for sailing are evident and contribute significantly to the company's perfect rating score. They are also noted as being great with kids, making it a family-friendly activity.

Analyzing the Pros and Cons

When considering any travel agency or tour provider, a balanced view is essential for making an informed decision. While the feedback for Schooner Surprise is overwhelmingly positive, it's important to analyze both the strengths and the inherent limitations of their offerings.

Key Strengths

• Exceptional Customer Service: The crew's expertise and friendly demeanor are a massive asset, ensuring guests feel welcome and informed throughout their boat trips.
• Choice of Experience: Offering two different boats allows the company to cater to distinct customer desires—a larger, traditional sail on the Surprise or a private, swifter ride on the Anjacaa.
• High Value and Affordability: Many customers note that the experience is "worth every penny" and provides excellent value for the cost, making these schooner cruises accessible.
• Interactive Engagement: The opportunity for guests to help with the sails or even steer the boat provides a hands-on, memorable component that sets it apart from more passive sightseeing tours.
• Flexibility: The company allows guests to bring their own food and beverages, including wine and beer, which adds to the personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Potential Considerations and Drawbacks

• Weather Dependency: As with any sailing venture, the experience is entirely at the mercy of the weather. Trips may be cancelled due to unsafe conditions (with a full refund), and cold or rainy weather could diminish the enjoyment of a scheduled tour. The company does proactively contact customers if high winds are expected later in the day to reschedule.
• Limited Onboard Amenities: These are historic sailing vessels, not modern luxury yachts. While blankets are provided for cooler weather, amenities are basic. The Anjacaa is noted to have two bathrooms, but expectations for extensive facilities should be tempered.
• Advance Booking is Essential: Due to the small-group nature of the tours, especially on the 6-passenger Anjacaa, booking well in advance is highly recommended, particularly during the peak season from mid-May to mid-October. Spontaneous trips may not be possible.
• Physical Considerations: While accessible to many, being on a moving sailboat requires a degree of mobility. Those prone to seasickness should take precautions. The temperature on the water is often cooler than on land, so bringing extra layers is advised.

Booking and Practical Details

Schooner Surprise operates seven days a week from mid-May through mid-October. Their ticket booth, marked by a green umbrella, is located at the Public Landing in Camden. They offer a variety of sailing tours, including standard two-hour day sails, sunset sails, and special themed events like full moon sails and live music cruises. For anyone planning a trip, their official website is the best source for schedules, rates, and online booking. Given the popularity of their coastal Maine sailing adventures, securing a spot ahead of time is the most reliable approach to guarantee a place on board.