ASHTABULA SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Sunset on a 19th‑Century Schooner: Wine & Walleye Sunset Sail Aboard Lettie G. Howard
A two‑hour sunset sail from Morton Street wharf in Ashtabula aboard the historic 1893 fishing schooner Lettie G. Howard—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and who the trip suits.
Sunset on a 19th‑Century Schooner: Wine & Walleye Sunset Sail Aboard Lettie G. Howard.
Experience the thrill of sailing aboard the historic Lettie G. Howard, one of the last wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooners built in 1893, as she tacks across Lake Erie at dusk; the outing pairs maritime history with golden sunsets for an unforgettable two‑hour sail.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A living piece of maritime history
Lettie G. Howard is one of the last surviving wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooners, built in 1893, restored in the 1990s, and operated through a collaboration between the South Street Seaport Museum and the Flagship Niagara League—sailing aboard is a direct encounter with maritime heritage.
Lake Erie sunsets from the water
The sunset sail is conceived around watching Lake Erie fold into dusk—guests relax on bench seating, watch the light change across the water, and photograph the harbor and horizon as the schooner slips along the lake.
Hands‑on sailing with an expert crew
After a short captain’s introduction, guests are invited to help set larger sails, meet the crew, and learn the vessel’s story—while the captain ultimately determines the exact sail plan based on wind and weather.
What the day feels like
What the sail actually feels like
Check‑in begins 15 minutes before cast off; the captain or chief mate gives a brief orientation, passengers board and may assist with setting the larger sails before settling onto benches to watch Lake Erie slide past as the sun drops—plans are flexible and the captain adapts the exact route to wind and weather.
THE SHIP
A living piece of maritime history
Lettie G. Howard is one of the last surviving wooden Fredonia‑style fishing schooners, built in 1893, restored in the 1990s, and operated through a collaboration between the South Street Seaport Museum and the Flagship Niagara League—sailing aboard is a direct encounter with maritime heritage.
THE VIEW
Lake Erie sunsets from the water
The sunset sail is conceived around watching Lake Erie fold into dusk—guests relax on bench seating, watch the light change across the water, and photograph the harbor and horizon as the schooner slips along the lake.
THE EXPERIENCE
Hands‑on sailing with an expert crew
After a short captain’s introduction, guests are invited to help set larger sails, meet the crew, and learn the vessel’s story—while the captain ultimately determines the exact sail plan based on wind and weather.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this sail works best for—and who should plan accordingly.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a scheduled two‑hour sunset sail; sails sell out quickly and dates and spots are limited during the sailing season—arrive at the boarding site 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
Rain or shine event—umbrellas are not permitted onboard, so bring rain jacket/pants/boots if rain is likely; bring non‑perishable snacks and non‑alcoholic drinks in non‑glass, closed containers. Water will be available onboard.
Benches provide seating; the onboard restroom is rustic and intended for urgent situations only—plan accordingly.
The boarding site is along Morton Street near the Ashtabula Lift Bridge and US Coast Guard Station; parking may be more difficult to find during the Wine & Walleye festival grounds, so allow extra time.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the sunset sail?
The outing is a two‑hour sunset sail.
Where do we meet for boarding?
Boarding takes place at the wharf along Morton Street, northwest of the Ashtabula Lift Bridge and across from the US Coast Guard Station Ashtabula.
Are umbrellas allowed if it rains?
Umbrellas are not permitted onboard; the event is rain or shine—please bring rain jacket/pants/boots if rain is expected.
What is the age policy for passengers?
Passengers must be at least 3 years old; guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
What is the refund and cancellation policy?
Tickets are valid only for the date/time printed; refunds are only issued if management cancels the sail (for weather, maintenance, or scheduling); the Captain has final authority to cancel or alter plans, and no‑shows are not refunded.
Can I bring food or alcohol onboard?
No food or drink is included; you may bring your own non‑perishable snacks and non‑alcoholic beverages packaged in non‑glass, closed containers. Alcoholic beverages are not provided.
Who operates the Lettie G. Howard sails?
Lettie G. Howard is owned by the South Street Seaport Museum and operated as a programmatic collaboration between the South Street Seaport Museum and the Flagship Niagara League.