Welcome to the World of the Stephen Taber
Launched in 1871, the Stephen Taber epitomizes the classic coasting schooner. Built in an era when highly skilled shipwrights built fine vessels to be aesthetically beautiful as well as functional, she stands as a proud tribute to American craftsmanship. She is today the oldest documented sailing vessel in continuous service in the United States, and has been honored by inclusion on the National Historic Register.
In keeping with history, the Taber has no inboard engine, but relies on Babe, our trusty yawl boat, to give us a hefty push when ever we need her.
Whether we are charging across the bay with a steady following breeze or just ghosting along with a late-afternoon zephyr, you will thrill to being a part of this extraordinary sailing adventure.
| Here's What Makes Us Special
The oldest sailing vessel in continuous service in the United States, and a National Historic Landmark. Huge percentage of repeat guests and referrals — upwards of 70% for the last 10 years running! Once you've sailed on the Taber, chances are you'll want to come back! Overall length is 115 feet. Length on deck is 68 feet, with a 22½-foot beam. The Taber is a very comfortable ride, and provides ample deck space. No inboard engine, meaning this is a pure sailing vacation, with no diesel odor below decks. Large galley and dining area, with a separate main salon and library aft. The Stephen Taber has been in the Barnes Family for over 25 years. Your host, Captain Noah Barnes, began sailing on the Taber at age six, and delights in sharing his intimate knowledge of the Maine Coast. We sail from our own wharf, with parking provided on site. The Taber has long been known for excellent food. Our own cookbook, A Taste of the Taber, is currently in its fifth printing, and is carried by L.L. Bean and many others. The Taber is a centerboard schooner. Our shallow draft allows us access to some of the more secluded and beautiful anchorages. The Taber has recently been featured on CBS Sunday Morning with Charles Osgood, as well as on the Food Network's Best Of: New England Cooking. She's known as the "Good Luck Vessel" of the fleet. If we don't have room, we will take time to help you find a cabin on another vessel.
If you are a seasoned sailor, or want to learn a bit about being one, you are always welcome to help sail the boat. The anchor must be raised; the sails hoisted; the lines coiled, made fast, or slacked; and the decks swabbed as we tack up the bay.
Crew members are ready and eager to teach you about sail handling, steering a course, and navigating. Learn the art of tying knots, or how to navigate in the fog by listening to sounds emanating from the islands as we pass them. Take a turn at the wheel and feel how this handy vessel responds.
Above all, the atmosphere on board the Taber is relaxed and unstructured. There is no "cruise director" with a long list of scheduled activities. If you're the gregarious type, you'll find plenty of group doings to join. If you prefer spending your time in quieter pursuits, you'll relish the peacefulness of shipboard life.
| Your Hosts, Captain Noah and Jane Barnes
A second-generation schooner captain, Noah Barnes started sailing aboard the Stephen Taber at the age of 7. His parents, Captains Ken and Ellen Barnes, were at the helm for 25 years, before their retirement after the 2003 season.
| Young Captain Noah
Captain Noah with his Dad, Captain Ken Barnes in 1979. Noah started sailing on the Taber when he was 7 years old.
Although he spent many years sailing and traveling in other parts of the world, Noah considers the magnificent coast of Maine his true home, and is thrilled to be aboard the Taber.
A licensed captain, Noah takes great joy in sharing his love of sailing and the stunning Maine coast. The Taber's reputation as a musical vessel continues on as well. Noah has spent years as a professional musician and plays several instruments. Acoustic sessions are a perfect way to end a beautiful day's sail.
| Jane Barnes
Jane enjoys some Champagne Bollinger with passengers aboard one our famous wine cruises.
A native New Yorker, Jane Barrett Barnes spent 13 years working in the wine business with industry leaders such as Champagne Veuve Clicquot, the Four Seasons and Paterno Wines International. A bonafide landlubber, she never dreamed that when she met Captain Noah in 2002, she would eventually find herself living in Maine and helping to run an historic windjammer. She now sails aboard under the split title of Chief of Morale and Wine Expert, and has immensely enjoyed getting to know the beautiful coast of Maine.
| Dinner on Deck
All of our crewmembers are thoroughly trained sailors and enthusiastic hosts. The Taber boasts an impeccable safety record and has been lovingly restored to her original beauty, grace, and speed.
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