LOWER TOWNSHIP SAILING FIELD GUIDE
A Two‑Hour Saltwind Lesson Aboard Cape May’s 1928 Oyster Schooner
A public, 2-hour sail aboard the 115-foot A.J. Meerwald from the Cape May Ferry Terminal — this guide explains what to expect on deck, how to board, and what to bring for the outing.
A Two‑Hour Saltwind Lesson Aboard Cape May’s 1928 Oyster Schooner.
Step aboard the A.J. Meerwald, a 115-foot oyster schooner built in 1928, and spend two hours on Delaware Bay with the Bayshore Center crew — an afternoon that blends hands‑on sailing, regional oral history, and wide, salt-stiff views of the water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Living 1928 Oyster Schooner
The A.J. Meerwald is a 115-foot oyster schooner built in 1928; sailing aboard is a chance to experience a working historic vessel rather than a modern tour boat.
Hands‑On Sailing on Delaware Bay
Crew-led opportunities such as trawling and sail hoisting put passengers directly into the work of the boat, paired with crew oral histories about the Meerwald and regional oystering traditions.
Bring Food, Bring the Camera
Guests are invited to bring their own food and drinks for the two‑hour cruise, and can choose either to participate in sailing tasks or relax and take in the bay scenery.
What the day feels like
What the Two Hours Feel Like
Boarding at the ferry terminal leads to two hours aboard a restored oyster schooner where guests can help raise sails, try trawling, listen to crew stories about oystering history, or simply sit and breathe the cold, briny air — whether you pitch in or watch, the outing is paced around life on deck.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this sail suits — and who should plan ahead.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The public sail is two hours in length.
Departure is from the Cape May Ferry Terminal (North 1200 Lincoln Blvd, North Cape May, NJ 08204); please arrive 30 minutes prior to departure.
Guests are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for the outing.
Boarding requires ascending ~2–4 steps; onboard restrooms are not ADA accessible; strollers are not permitted; children under 5 are not recommended and children 5–17 must be accompanied by an adult.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the public sail?
The cruise lasts two hours.
Where do I meet the boat?
The sail departs from the Cape May Ferry Terminal; guests should arrive 30 minutes before departure.
Can I bring food and beverages?
Yes — guests are asked to bring their own food and drinks for the sail.
Are children allowed?
Children under 5 are not recommended; children aged 5–17 must be accompanied by an adult.
Are the restrooms accessible?
Onboard restrooms are not ADA accessible; shoreside facilities are available inside the terminal.
Can I bring my pet or stroller?
Strollers are not permitted onboard and pets are not allowed (service animals only).