ERIE GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Sailing a 19th‑Century Fishing Schooner Into an Erie Sunset
A two‑hour guided sunset sail aboard the historic Lettie G. Howard through Presque Isle Bay — this guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and why the vessel and setting matter.
Sailing a 19th‑Century Fishing Schooner Into an Erie Sunset.
Step aboard Lettie G. Howard, one of the last surviving wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooners, for a two‑hour sunset sail through Presque Isle Bay in Erie, Pennsylvania. On this guided outing you can help haul lines, meet the crew, learn the ship’s history, and watch the sun drop behind Presque Isle — all on a traditional wooden vessel owned by the South Street Seaport Museum and operated in collaboration with the Flagship Niagara League.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A rare wooden fishing schooner
Lettie G. Howard is a restored Fredonia‑style fishing schooner from 1893 and one of the last of her kind; she’s maintained as a living historic vessel through a partnership between the South Street Seaport Museum and the Flagship Niagara League.
Two hours in Presque Isle Bay
The program runs as a roughly two‑hour cruise through Presque Isle Bay; the Captain sets the exact route and sail plan based on wind and weather, giving passengers a short briefing before leaving the dock.
Hands‑on sailing and sunset views
Beyond a scenic cruise, sails are an active, interpretive experience: you’ll have the chance to assist the crew with larger sails, hear the vessel’s story, and finish the trip watching sunset over the water behind Presque Isle.
What the day feels like
What the sail feels like
After check‑in, the Captain or Chief Mate gives a short introduction; the ship then maneuvers off the dock and sails into Presque Isle Bay. Over roughly two hours you’ll alternate between helping crew with lines and sitting back on bench seating to take in the harbor and the slowly changing light as the sun sets behind Presque Isle. The exact route and sail plan are set by the Captain and will vary with wind and weather.
THE SHIP
A rare wooden fishing schooner
Lettie G. Howard is a restored Fredonia‑style fishing schooner from 1893 and one of the last of her kind; she’s maintained as a living historic vessel through a partnership between the South Street Seaport Museum and the Flagship Niagara League.
THE SAIL
Two hours in Presque Isle Bay
The program runs as a roughly two‑hour cruise through Presque Isle Bay; the Captain sets the exact route and sail plan based on wind and weather, giving passengers a short briefing before leaving the dock.
THE MOMENT
Hands‑on sailing and sunset views
Beyond a scenic cruise, sails are an active, interpretive experience: you’ll have the chance to assist the crew with larger sails, hear the vessel’s story, and finish the trip watching sunset over the water behind Presque Isle.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this sail suits — and who should plan accordingly.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Umbrellas are not permitted onboard; if rain is possible bring rain jacket/pants and boots. You may bring non‑perishable snacks and non‑alcoholic beverages in non‑glass, closed containers; water is available aboard. There are benches for seating.
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled sail to check in; the vessel departs at the scheduled time with or without you.
No umbrellas allowed; bring containers that are non‑glass and can be closed. No food or drink is included with the ticket.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the sail?
The program is a roughly two‑hour sailing experience in Presque Isle Bay.
Where and when do I check in?
Check‑in opens 30 minutes before the scheduled sail time; plan to arrive early because the ship departs on schedule with or without you.
Is the sail canceled for rain?
Sails are a rain‑or‑shine event; umbrellas are not permitted onboard, so bring rain gear (jacket/pants/boots) if precipitation is expected.
Can children come on the sail?
Yes; children are permitted but must be accompanied by an adult. Ticket pricing differentiates adults (age 13+) and children (age 12 & under).
What is the refund policy?
Refunds are only issued if the sail is cancelled by management (for example due to weather or maintenance). No‑shows are not refunded and whether to sail is the Captain’s final decision.
Can I bring food or drinks?
No food or drink is included with the ticket, but you may bring non‑perishable snacks and non‑alcoholic beverages in non‑glass, closed containers; water will be available on board.