TISBURY SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Sail the Schooner Alabama: An intimate day sail from Tisbury’s Black Dog Wharf
A short, two‑hour outing aboard a historic 1926 schooner where passengers can raise sails, take the wheel, or simply watch Martha’s Vineyard pass by.
Sail the Schooner Alabama: An intimate day sail from Tisbury’s Black Dog Wharf.
The Schooner Alabama slips from the Black Dog Wharf for a compact, sea‑borne escape around Martha’s Vineyard — a chance to stand on an authentic 1926 fishing schooner, feel the pull of canvas and rigging, or unwind with a glass of wine as the island coast unfolds.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A living piece of maritime history
Alabama is an original 1926 Gloucester‑style fishing schooner restored and sailed as a working historic vessel; aboard you get a tangible connection to American coastal seafaring traditions.
Hands‑on sailing or relaxed cruising
Passengers are invited to join the crew in raising sails and may man the wheel with the captain, or opt to sit back and enjoy the scenery and a drink as the ship cruises local waters.
Small groups, mixed ages — an island highlight
The day sail is presented as a memorable island activity for couples, families and groups, offering convivial time on deck and scenic views that often become the trip’s standout memory.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
This is an intimate, short-form sail: passengers board, the crew prepares and hoists canvas, and for roughly two hours you move with the wind along the Vineyard shoreline — switching between active participation and quiet observation as the captain and crew set the pace.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this sail suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing is a short day sail of approximately two hours and is scheduled regularly throughout the season.
BYOB and picnic meals are welcome; the operator provides waters, soda waters and a cheese platter.
Boarding involves a short ladder from a water taxi and requires comfort with climbing; accessing below‑deck cabins and bathrooms requires ladder‑style stairs and is not handicapped accessible.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the sail?
The outing is approximately two hours long.
Where does the schooner depart from?
The Alabama sails from the Black Dog Wharf in Tisbury; boarding is staged from a water taxi with crew assistance.
Can I help raise the sails or steer?
Yes — passengers are invited to join the crew in raising the sails and may man the wheel with the captain.
What should I bring onboard?
Guests may bring picnic meals and BYOB; the operator provides waters, soda waters and a cheese platter.
Is the schooner accessible to passengers with mobility limitations?
No — due to the vessel’s age and historic design, Alabama is not handicapped accessible; boarding and below‑deck access require climbing ladders.
Who is this sail suitable for?
The sail is promoted as appropriate for couples, families and groups and is described as an island highlight for visitors of mixed ages.