Built in Portland, Maine, in 1931, Timberwind spent the first 38 years of her life stationed 18 miles off Portland Head, taking pilots to meet large ships that had to be navigated into port. She was converted for passenger sailing in 1969, designated a National Historic Landmark in 1992, and today is one of the most rustic vessels in the fleet, affording a real back-in-time experience.
Ambience: Quiet, with days spent sailing and guests able to go ashore most days for 1 to 3 hours. Music lovers might be particularly interested in this vessel because her owner, Captain Bob Tassi, was a Nashville studio engineer before chucking it all to become a schooner man. Evenings frequently find him on guitar, and a framed portrait of Frank Sinatra adds an incongruous grace note to the rustic galley. Cabins: Tiny varnished-wood cabins have small electric lights, barrel water, and an enamel wash basin. Beds are either bunks or doubles. Bathrooms/Showers: Two shared heads below deck. One on-deck shower with privacy curtain. Length: 70 ft. Passengers: 20 (min. age 5). Contact: Schooner Timberwind, P.O. Box 247, Rockport, ME 04856. tel. 800/759-9250; www.schoonertimberwind.com.
