ERIE SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Aboard a 19th‑Century Fishing Schooner: 1.5 Hours Sailing Presque Isle Bay on Lettie G. Howard
A 1.5‑hour harbor sail aboard the 1893 wooden schooner Lettie G. Howard — this guide explains the onboard routine, the vessel’s history, and what to expect on Presque Isle Bay.
Aboard a 19th‑Century Fishing Schooner: 1.5 Hours Sailing Presque Isle Bay on Lettie G. Howard.
Climb aboard Lettie G. Howard, one of the last surviving wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooners, and spend 1.5 hours gliding through Erie’s Presque Isle Bay. You’ll feel the wind, help set sails if you choose, and hear the boat’s history from the crew as the vessel moves through its natural harbor.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A surviving 1893 wooden fishing schooner
Lettie G. Howard is an 1893 Fredonia‑style fishing schooner restored to her original appearance and recognized for her historic significance; aboard her you’re sailing on one of the few remaining vessels of this type.
Hands‑on sail experience in Presque Isle Bay
On a typical day sail the crew will invite guests to help set some of the larger sails, then settle in to enjoy sailing across Erie’s natural harbor while the captain manages the passage.
Maritime history meets local scenery
The sail combines a living‑history encounter with local waters: you’ll learn about Lettie G. Howard’s past and see Erie from the water as the schooner moves through Presque Isle Bay.
What the day feels like
What the 1.5‑Hour Day Sail Feels Like
The sail follows a compact, deliberate rhythm: check‑in 15 minutes before departure, board, hear a short introduction from the captain or chief mate, head off the dock, help the crew set some sails if you wish, then relax and take in the bay as the crew shares the schooner’s history.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this sail suits — and what the supplied facts say about restrictions.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing is scheduled for approximately 1.5 hours; guests are asked to check in 15 minutes before the scheduled sail time.
Boarding follows a short check‑in period; the captain or chief mate provides an introduction before departing the dock and beginning the sail into Presque Isle Bay.
No specific gear list is provided in the supplied facts; guests should be prepared for wind and spray and follow any guidance from the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the sail?
The day sail lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
When should I arrive for check‑in?
Guests will be checked in 15 minutes before the scheduled sail time.
Will I get to help with the sails?
On a typical day sail you’ll be invited to help the crew set some of the larger sails, then relax and enjoy the passage.
What will we see from the boat?
The sail takes place in Presque Isle Bay, offering views of Erie and the experience of the harbor from the water.
Can the captain change the route or sail plan?
Yes: sailing plans and the exact route and sail plan are at the captain’s discretion and are dependent on wind and weather conditions.