Weather and conditions permitting, many of the windjammers sail together in a Parade of Sail into Boothbay's tiny inner harbor to enjoy an evening of festivities and fireworks. Cabbage Island Tues. For 24 years, this has been the largest annual gathering of tall ships in North America. Early the morning of the race the captains meet to discuss their course according to the winds. Close quarters sailing and friendly competition provides exhilaration during the race.
Crowds cheer as the vessels cross the finnish line.
Monday's radio chatter includes discussion on what might be the best anchorage where the fleet can converge. Some secluded harbor is transformed with tall masts and wooden sailing ships, crowding the port much as they did a 100 years ago or more. This is an opportunity to see close up, and perhaps even board, all of the area windjammers. One of these nights we will be anchoring by Swan's Island in Burnt Cove Harbor. Folk singers travel from schooner to schooner giving all a taste of their upcoming concert.