Every summer since 1977, the Maine Windjammer Association has hosted the Great Schooner Race, providing an opportunity for captains, crews and passengers aboard traditional vessels from all over the Eastern Seaboard to rendezvous for a fun day of racing.
Hailed as “the largest annual gathering of traditional schooners in America,” this year at least twenty schooners are expected to participate in the 45th Annual Great Schooner Race scheduled to take place on July 7th, 2023 in Penobscot Bay.
As race day approaches, we may add more information, but for now you can find more information in the race details section.
Race Details
It’s the biggest day of our season. We want you to be a part of it!
Discover Windjamming
Is there a sailor in your soul? Discover the adventure, fun, friendship, and pure bliss a windjammer vacation can bring.
Participating Schooners
We welcome all traditionally-rigged schooners to submit registration and participate in the Great Schooner Race!
Sail with us!
If you’d like to sail aboard one of the windjammers and participate in the race, you can!
The Great Schooner Race is the culmination of a multi-night windjammer cruise. On board guests can participate in the sailing and strategy of the race, or just sit back and relax. Visit our fleet page to find each boat’s sailing schedule. Reservations are made directly with the boat of your choice.
If you can’t sail with us, you can watch the race from the Rockland Breakwater. The boats will cross the starting line, just off the breakwater around 10am and cross the finish line there around 2pm.
Stay in the Know
With the Maine Windjammer Association monthly newsletter, you’ll receive tips and hints from folks who have sailed as well as information about the best dining and attractions the area has to offer, special packages, windjammer history, events, and more!
You may request a mailed packet of brochures, or you can find individual ships’ brochures under each listing on the fleet page on the Maine Windjammer Association Website.
