ERIE SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Sunset Aboard a 19th‑Century Fredonia‑Style Schooner on Lake Erie
A two‑hour sunset sail aboard the historic Lettie G. Howard where passengers help set sails, learn the vessel’s story, and watch the sun fall over Lake Erie.
Sunset Aboard a 19th‑Century Fredonia‑Style Schooner on Lake Erie.
Climb aboard the Lettie G. Howard — one of the last surviving wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooners — for a two‑hour sunset sail on Lake Erie. Guests assist the crew with setting sails, hear the schooner’s history, and take in the wide, low light of a Great Lakes sunset on this maritime experience.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Rare 19th‑Century Fishing Schooner
Lettie G. Howard is a surviving wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooner built in 1893; she was restored to her original appearance during an extensive rebuild and is recognized for her historic significance.
Hands‑On Sailing on Lake Erie
After a brief introduction from the Captain or Chief Mate, passengers help the crew set some of the larger sails before settling in to enjoy the passage; exact sail plan and route depend on wind and weather.
Sunset Views Off the Great Lakes Coast
As the ship moves across Lake Erie, the sail is timed to deliver the schooner into the stretch of evening light where passengers can watch the sun drop below the horizon.
What the day feels like
What the Two‑Hour Sunset Sail Feels Like
The flow is compact and deliberate: a short check‑in and boarding sequence, a Captain’s introduction, a period of hands‑on sail handling alongside the crew, and then time to relax on deck as the schooner slips through the last light. Throughout the sail you’ll hear the vessel’s history and watch Lake Erie’s sunset unfold, though the precise route and which sails are set are decided by the Captain based on wind and weather.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The advertised sail duration is two hours.
Passengers are checked in about 15 minutes before the scheduled sail time and will receive a short introduction from the Captain or Chief Mate prior to departure.
The sail is available to guests ages 3 and up.
The Lettie G. Howard is a historic wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooner with a recorded history dating to 1893 and an extensive restoration that returned her to historic appearance.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the sunset sail?
The sail runs approximately two hours.
What is the minimum age to participate?
The sail is available to guests ages 3 and older.
Will I be able to help with the sailing?
Yes — after a short introduction from the Captain or Chief Mate you can help the crew set some of the larger sails.
Is Lettie G. Howard a historic ship?
Yes — she is a wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooner built in 1893 that underwent an extensive rebuild to restore her historic appearance and has been recognized for her significance.
Will the exact sailing route be the same every trip?
No — the exact sailing route and sail plan are at the Captain’s discretion and depend on wind and weather conditions.
What will I learn on board?
Passengers meet the crew and learn about Lettie G. Howard’s history and restoration while enjoying the sail and sunset views.