PUT-IN-BAY SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Afternoon Aboard a 1893 Wooden Schooner: Sail the Lettie G. Howard on Lake Erie
A 1.5-hour afternoon sail aboard the historic Lettie G. Howard where passengers help set sails and hear the vessel’s maritime story—this guide explains what to expect aboard this surviving Fredonia‑style fishing schooner.
Afternoon Aboard a 1893 Wooden Schooner: Sail the Lettie G. Howard on Lake Erie.
Climb aboard the Lettie G. Howard, a wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooner built in 1893 and now operating sails on Lake Erie. One of the last surviving vessels of her kind, the Howard’s creak of timber and rigging anchors the experience in a tangible piece of maritime history as passengers help set sails and learn the schooner’s story.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A National‑Landmark Wooden Schooner
Lettie G. Howard is a surviving Fredonia‑style fishing schooner built in Essex, Massachusetts in 1893; she later became part of the South Street Seaport Museum and was declared a National Historic Landmark after restoration to her original appearance.
Hands‑On Sailing on Lake Erie
On this afternoon sail you’ll help the crew set some of the larger sails and then relax as the schooner moves across Lake Erie, feeling wind and tide shape the motion of the vessel.
Living Maritime History
While underway the crew shares Lettie G. Howard’s history—from her 19th‑century fishing roots to museum stewardship—making the sail as much a living history lesson as a brief outing on the water.
What the day feels like
What the Afternoon Feels Like
This is a short, focused sail: after a brief check‑in and welcome from the Captain or Chief Mate, passengers help set some of the larger sails, then settle into the rhythm of the schooner as she makes way across Lake Erie. Conversation with the crew centers on the vessel’s construction, fishing‑schooner heritage and museum history, all within an approximately 1.5‑hour outing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this sail suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The sail runs about 1.5 hours.
Plan to arrive for check‑in 15 minutes before the scheduled sail time.
No specific gear requirements are provided in the trip data.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Put‑in‑Bay Afternoon Sail?
The sail is approximately 1.5 hours long.
What vessel is used for the sail?
The sail takes place aboard the Lettie G. Howard, a 1893 wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooner.
Where does the sail take place?
The outing sails on Lake Erie.
Can passengers help with sailing duties?
Yes—passengers will help the crew set some of the larger sails during the outing.
When should I arrive for check‑in?
Guests are checked in 15 minutes before the scheduled sail time.
Is the sailing route fixed?
No—the exact sailing route and sail plan are at the Captain’s discretion and depend on wind and weather conditions.