FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


How do I reserve seats aboard the Eleanor?

Where do we meet?

  • We are docked at the Arundel Wharf Restaurant, conveniently located two blocks from the center of town at 43 Ocean Avenue, Kennebunkport. For GPS users, make sure you enter Kennebunkport as there are many Ocean Avenues in Maine.

What time do I need to be there and where to park?

  • Please check in 15-20 minutes before departure time. We have free designated parking for the morning sail at the Arundel Wharf restaurant. The afternoon sails have very limited spaces available! Look for parking on nearby side streets or contact Ride Maine !

What should we wear and bring along?

  • Dress comfortably for the weather. We suggest layers as it is may be cooler on the water. We also recommend sunscreen. Soft soled, non-marking shoes are recommended. We do supply comfy blankets and binoculars.

  • Bring along water, and any food and beverages. Beer and wine are welcome.

Is there a bathroom onboard?

  • Yes, we do have a ship’s “head” onboard. We also have convenient facilities on shore in our office that we encourage our guests to visit before the trip.

Is this a narrated tour?

  • Although this is not a narrated tour as we want our guests to appreciate the quiet enjoyment of the sailing experience, our captain and crew will point out landmarks, share stories and answer questions about the Eleanor, sailing, and local history.

Do you offer private charters?

  • Yes, we offer private charters! The Eleanor is the perfect vessel to entertain family and friends or a business group. The schooner can be reserved for groups of up to 17 passengers. Guests are welcomed to bring along boat-friendly food and beverages. Beer and wine are welcome. Please call for private charter rates and reservations, or contact us via email at schoonersails@gwi.net.

Do you offer Gift Certificates?

  • Gift Certificates are available for purchase at our office or by mail. Visit the Gift Certificate page for more information.

Other Information

  • Pets – Sorry, Hoss is the only pet with permission to board the Eleanor.

  • Kids – Children 7 and up are welcome on our morning and midday sails, but we ask that parents consider whether this experience is one your child will enjoy, as it does require everyone to stay seated for the 1.5-2 hour experience. We can accommodate children ages 6 and under only on our private charters. Our 4:30 sail is limited to guests ages 16 and up.

  • Handicap accessibility – We try our best to accommodate, so please give us a call.

  • Yes, we have a motor on board. However, a comfortable sail is the primary purpose of our trip.

  • We do see the Bush Compound from a distance.

  • No smoking.

  • Cancellation Policy – If we need to cancel due to weather, wind or sea conditions we notify you asap and there is no fee. We try our best to reschedule. If guests need to cancel, we ask that it’s done in a timely manner.

The Eleanor is proudly running on Biodiesel-recycled local french fry oil and climate-friendly wind.