Destinations
Summary
Sailing in Penobscot Bay offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and exhilarating seafaring experiences. Located along the rugged coast of Maine, this picturesque bay boasts sparkling waters dotted with countless islands, each with its unique character and allure. From the bustling harbors of Camden and Rockland to the serene anchorages of remote coves, sailors are treated to stunning vistas of rocky shorelines, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re navigating the channels between islands or enjoying a leisurely cruise under billowing sails, Penobscot Bay promises memorable adventures for novice and seasoned sailors alike.
Victory Chimes
Victory Chimes is a historic schooner designated as a National Historic Landmark. She’s the last surviving Chesapeake Ram schooner and the largest in the world. Built in 1900 in Bethel, Delaware, she was initially named “Edwin and Maud” and served as a cargo vessel transporting lumber, stone, and other goods along the East Coast of the United States. After World War II, she was converted into a passenger schooner and began offering cruises along the coast of Maine. She became a beloved vessel renowned for her elegance and charm, offering passengers a taste of traditional sailing and a glimpse into maritime history. Her longevity and rich history make her an iconic and treasured part of American maritime heritage. She’s even featured on the Maine State Quarter.
Instead of me trying to provide you with Victory Chimes’ rich history, the official website does it so much better than I ever could: Victory Chimes Website.
Victory Chimes had been sold as of the time of writing this, but no final plans had been set for her. Read more about her sale here.
Penobscot Bay
Penobscot Bay is a picturesque and historically rich body of water located along the central coast of Maine in the United States. It’s renowned for its natural beauty, diverse marine life, and vibrant coastal communities. To see where Penobscot Bay is in the world, view the map in the Highlights section below.
Highlights
Below is a map showing our general sailing route for the trip, along with some highlights. (Use the arrows at the top to navigate the map.)
Our Experience
We were lucky enough to have booked the final voyage on the Victory Chimes in October 2022. We booked the trip to enjoy the fall colors and a multi-day sail in Maine, but the experience was much more than we had expected. When we booked, we didn’t know that Victory Chimes was a National Historic Landmark, we had no idea that the food would be so good, we did not realize how much Victory Chimes meant to so many people, and we did not know that it would be her final voyage. We booked it because we wanted to go sailing in Maine, and there was a suite (double bed) with our own head (boat lingo for toilet).
Many of the other passengers told us stories of past trips they had taken on her, admiring her sails from ashore or even being a parent to one of the ten crew members. They all had booked the boat to her maximum because she meant so much to them, and they all wanted to be on her last voyage. Looking back, we were lucky to have reserved our spots when we did!
Words can’t really express how fantastic this voyage was. The people were terrific, the food was fantastic, the views were majestic, and the accommodations were just right. Plus, the overall trip was relaxing. It was one of those trips you need to experience for yourself to appreciate.
This being Victory Chime’s last sailing added something unique to the voyage. I can only explain it as a bittersweet feeling—bitter because we knew that we probably would never be able to sail on her again, and sweet because we were some of the few to get the experience.
Our overall trip to Maine included visiting Acadia National Park, Portland, LL Bean, Kennebunkport, and many, many lighthouses. Sailing can be a trip of its own, but we wanted to see as much as possible while in Maine.
Below is a gallery of photos taken during this sailing trip.
Plan Your Visit
Even though you won’t be able to sail on Victory Chimes, sailing in Penobscot Bay is a must! The captain, Captain Sam Sikkema, of Victory Chimes, now sails the Grace Bailey. The Maine Windjammer Association has multiple options if you’re looking for more boat options.
Here are some resources to help you plan your visit:
