SALEM SAILING FIELD GUIDE
A 1930 Alden Schooner Day Sail across Salem Sound
A two-hour sailing aboard the classic Malabar X that traces lighthouses, islands and coastline around Salem—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring and how the cruise flows.
A 1930 Alden Schooner Day Sail across Salem Sound.
Step aboard the Malabar X, a classic 1930 schooner, for a two-hour day sail through Salem Sound. Under billowing canvas you’ll pass islands and coastlines from Marblehead to Manchester-by-the-Sea, learn pieces of Salem’s maritime history and take part in the rhythm of a working sailing yacht.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A living piece of American maritime history
Malabar X is a classic schooner built in 1930 to a John G. Alden design; the cruise offers a close-up look at the craftsmanship of one of America’s famous sailing yachts while guests learn about the ship and local maritime history.
Scenic passage past lighthouses and coastline
The two-hour sail moves through Salem Sound and can pass by up to five of the area’s most notable lighthouses while taking in islands and shorelines from Marblehead, Salem, Beverly and Manchester-by-the-Sea.
Hands-on sailing with relaxed service
Guests can choose to sit back or help raise sails and steer; cruises include soft drinks and bottled water, and craft cocktails, beer and wine are available for purchase—service timed around the sail to maximize the on-deck experience.
What the day feels like
What the two-hour sail feels like
After arriving at the dock and a brief safety orientation, the Malabar X will get underway under power before easing into canvas as the crew points the ship into the wind; engines are shut off and the schooner slips along under sail while crew and captain point out lighthouses, islands and wildlife. Drink service, photography opportunities and chances to try steering or working a line punctuate the relaxed, social two-hour passage.
THE VESSEL
A living piece of American maritime history
Malabar X is a classic schooner built in 1930 to a John G. Alden design; the cruise offers a close-up look at the craftsmanship of one of America’s famous sailing yachts while guests learn about the ship and local maritime history.
THE ROUTE
Scenic passage past lighthouses and coastline
The two-hour sail moves through Salem Sound and can pass by up to five of the area’s most notable lighthouses while taking in islands and shorelines from Marblehead, Salem, Beverly and Manchester-by-the-Sea.
THE EXPERIENCE
Hands-on sailing with relaxed service
Guests can choose to sit back or help raise sails and steer; cruises include soft drinks and bottled water, and craft cocktails, beer and wine are available for purchase—service timed around the sail to maximize the on-deck experience.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this sail and who should plan around limits.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The cruise is two hours long; arrive roughly 30 minutes before departure (free parking available), with boarding beginning 15 minutes prior and a safety orientation before leaving the dock.
Dress for the weather — it’s typically 5–10°F cooler on the water; bring a jacket or sweatshirt. Soft drinks and bottled water are included on all cruises; alcoholic beverages (craft cocktails, beer and wine) are available for purchase.
Drink service resumes after sails are set; last call for alcohol is 30 minutes before return. The operator will assist guests getting onboard, but wheelchairs cannot be taken aboard and must remain on the dock.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the sail?
The outing is a two-hour day sail.
Where do I meet the vessel?
Meet at 10 Blaney St., Salem, MA; free parking is available and guests are asked to arrive about 30 minutes before departure with boarding beginning 15 minutes prior.
Are drinks included?
All cruises include soft drinks and bottled water; craft cocktails, beer and wine are available for purchase. Note that there is a last call for alcohol 30 minutes before returning to the dock.
Can passengers help sail the boat?
Yes — guests may participate in raising sails and steering the schooner when the crew invites participation.
Is the vessel wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchairs cannot be brought onboard; the crew is happy to assist guests getting aboard and to seat them comfortably, but wheelchairs must remain on the dock.
How many guests sail at once?
The operator limits guest size to 25 to keep the experience personable and intimate.