Historic Coasting Schooner

MISTRESS is a special boat, blending a traditional coasting schooner and private yacht.  For the past 30 years she has operated as part of Maine Windjammer Cruises, carrying passengers for hire on 3-, 4-, and 6-day overnight cruises from Camden, Maine.   

MISTRESS fills a distinctive niche in the Windjammer industry, as the only overnight windjammer operating as an uninspected 6-passenger vessel: Perfect for those who want to go windjamming but who require more privacy than the larger boats offer. With just six passengers, it's almost like having your own yacht - plus no Coast Guard inspections to contend with. 

Below decks MISTRESS offers three private, double cabins - each with its own head, sink, and access companionway from the deck.  During Covid-19 she was able to continue running steadily with private charters while larger boats often remained empty.   MISTRESS would be an amazing business opportunity for a young captain and chef wishing to get into the windjammer trade, but without the maintenance and crewing challenges associated with larger vessels.    

MISTRESS was initially built in 1960 on Deer Isle, Maine along the lines of a traditional coasting schooner.  Her hull was then moved to Camden, where she was rigged and fitted out with modern accommodations below decks at Camden Shipbuilding Co.  She is rigged in the traditional manner with blocks and tackles, deadeyes and lanyards, but unlike the bigger coasters, has a 60 hp inboard diesel engine for versatility, safety, and extended cruising range.

MISTRESS was fully restored in 1992. She is 60 feet overall, 46 feet on deck and accommodates 6 passengers. She is currently in the water in Camden, Maine.