| Special Cruises |
There are many special THEME CRUISES. They are designed to entertain, educate and challenge passengers. You will meet people with similar interests and backgrounds.And, there are several historic SPECIAL EVENTS coming up. They'll offer a few lucky individuals an extraordinary opportunity, to sail with the Tall Ships. Both as observers and crew.
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Theme CruisesThe schooners and windjammers that offer leisure cruising have made an effort to bring their passengers a wide variety of special cruises. This is especially true of the fleet of vessels sailing along the coast of Maine and in the Long Island Sound. Not only can you enjoy the spectacular scenery of Penobscot Bay, but you can also enjoy some great entertainment and educational opportunities. I have researched theme cruises for each season. New England runs from late May through early October. You can combine these cruises with New England land trips and see the best of the what the area has to offer.Any cruise in the Caribbean is a theme cruise. When you head to the Caribbean there are fewer specific theme cruises, but more to do if you love the water. Snorkeling and scuba are great in the Caribbean as is shopping and sightseeing. Plus the Caribbean offers year around cruising. While the Winter is the high season, summer can offer great lodging deals. I have found that spending time after your cruise in the Caribbean can be a great way to really unwind. A one week cruise flies by, adding time afterwards to veg out is well worth the time and money. Here is a general list of theme cruises. Similar cruises are offered each year by a variety of vessels; dates and itineraries will change, so be sure to contact the companies to determine specifics. And, don't delay on booking.
These cruises change every year; different dates, different vessels, different locations. If you see any that interest you, consider filling out your own personal Cruise Guide Questionnaire. Ir will help you focus on exactly what kind of cruise experience you really want. These cruises fill quickly! Confirm space a.s.a.p.! |
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Special EventsNearly every year, traditional sailing ships, tall ships, windjammers, gather to visit, race, train or just enjoy each other's company. Many of these gatherings are small and extemporaneous, others are larger and well organized. Most of the vessels offer cruises that take these events into their schedule so that you can be part of the activities.There are really three areas that host such gatherings. The fleet of schooners that sail in the Penobscot Bay area and around Long Island Sound often gather for special events and/or to help coastal towns & cities celebrate special anniversaries. You will find a good number of vessels getting together in that area for the Great Schooner Race, the Windjammer Gam, the Wooden Boat Sail-in and the Camden Windjammer Days festivals.
Now you have a choice:If it is the challenge of sail training that inspires you, then try a "View from Aloft". If you would rather enjoy this without the physical challenge, go for the "View from the Quarterdeck"! There is a world of difference.
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View from the Quarterdeck.....It is a great experience to see the ships gather and race. You may be able to visit the different vessels before and after, depending on the event. Some vessels will offer several short cruises that are designed to let you take part in different portions of the activities, including the race itself. This is ideal for sailing enthusiasts, photographers, members of the press or families looking for an extraordinary event in which to participate. Remember, we are still talking about watching, not participating in the sail training races at local and international levels. The other areas where you can join/watch the ships will be in U.S. and European waters during some of the great sail training gatherings on the horizon. The Sail Training Association of Europe has a large fleet of vessels that sail and gather as does the American Sail Training Association. These EVENTS focus on sail training and international relations as ships from many countries sail and race together from ports in Europe in local races and worldwide races.
If you want to take part in an historical event, such as the Tall Ship gatherings in New York, Boston or a number of other ports, the best place to start will be with one of the fleet of leisure vessels. BERTH SPACE IS PRECIOUS!!!!!!!. Better start looking now if you are interested. I have sailed in two tall ship parades and they are extraordinary. Many of the New England vessels offer cruises that take part in the big events. I sailed aboard the Roseway in 1992 for two weeks which took in New York during the 500th anniversary of the Columbus Voyage of Discovery, 1492-1992. It cost over $2000.00 but was unforgettable. Again, book now if you want a place! It will be an experience of a life time and a real treat if you love the Tall Ships. Contact the vessel home office immediately to find out if there is any berth space available; be prepared to make a deposit on the spot if you are lucky enough to find space! Make your deposit and look forward to an extraordinary occasion.
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