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Wherry Happens: Construction has begun!
Noah and ex-crew Tim Clark are lofting out what will be the ultimate schooner tender: fast to row, a dream to sail, with enough room to carry six at a time ashore for lobster bake. This should considerably expand our lobster bake island choices, while also giving our guests a chance to learn how to row and sail small boats. Very exciting.
At left: Captain Noah's winter project, wherry "Plain Jane."
Enlarged main cabin!
We are reconfiguring the Main Cabin, or, as we called it, the Library. As of now, this is no longer such an ironic name for the room, which has doubled in size. Another priority with the project was to increase the size of the two single cabins, which were very small. Although there is still not quite enough room for a foxtrot lesson, cabins 10 and 11 are much more accommodating. Cabin eight is also enlarged, and all three cabins have been fitted with larger doors. The entire space is luxuriously appointed with raised mahogany panels. Curious how we added all the room? We cut the Captain's Cabin in half.
 Partnership with Local Cheese Provider
We had a great time this season filming a segment for Culinary Travels with Dave Eckert. Dave was great to have aboard, and the filming brought us closer to a few of our local food specialists, especially Sage Market, who provide us with all of our fantastic cheeses and cured meats. We now have a close partnership with Sage to bring us the best artisanal products from America and abroad.
And as for the Race . . .
No, the Taber did not come home with the trophy this year; we'll have to settle for second. But what a race! Noah claims that he would rather lose by a bowsprit in a thrilling tacking duel than win by a mile. We all know him better. Seriously, though, it was an incredible day, a dramatic last-place come-from-behind effort, and the true spirit of racing these grand vessels has been kept alive and well.
"Once again, cannot believe the week is over already! Thanks so much for an absolute best-ever cruise. First wine week was incredible!" —Kathy, Minneapolis, MN
 More wine for all my Friends! Etc.
For the 2008 season, we're having four wine trips, yeah! Check out a sample menu and wine-list on our Floating Feast page. Captains Ken and Ellen have agreed to come aboard for a third annual Music and Storytelling cruise in October and we're doing another Photo and Lighthouse week in September with fantastic photographer, John Shipman (more details, below).
Eco-tastic!
Everytime time we visit the gas pump or pay our heating bill we are reminded of how remarkably little we rely on fossil fuels for our business. Once we get the boat ready, and once everyone gets here, we use about 6 gallons of diesel per week — and we logged 3250 nautical miles! This, plus our ongoing efforts in organic gardening, using fresh, local, hormone-free products, makes us feel even better about our product.
John Shipman returning for another Photography Week
We are proud to have award-winning photographer John L. Shipman back for another Photo and Lighthouse trip. John will be teaching informal classes on digital photography. We will also make a special effort to visit as many of Maine's beautiful lighthouses as possible.
John Shipman earned his "Photographic Certification" from the Professional Photographers of America in 1996, his "Craftsman Photographer" degree in 2000, and his "Master of Photography" in 2002. He is the recipient of seven Kodak Gallery Awards and one Kodak Gallery Elite Award (of which there are only 60 in existence) along with four Fuji Masterpiece Awards. He is currently the President of Delaware Professional Photographers Inc.
Our New Sails
The real stars of our 2006 season were our new set of sails. For her 135th year, we treated the Taber to a new set of rags. These custom Oceanus sails made by sailmaking guru Nat Wilson, helped us terrorize the other boats around the bay. The tune-up caused a bit of chagrin, but we were all proud of how the old gal can get up and go.
Reading Lights in Cabins!
New Plumbing System!
We've been very busy this winter, improving systems and installing these great little LED reading lights over every pillow. This is a great new feature for our cozy (tiny) cabins — just a touch of convenience without ruining the rustic charm!
 Stephen Taber recognized as EcoTourism Leader - LEAVE NO TRACE certified
During the entire month of June, every guest who sails aboard the Stephen Taber will be offered a complimentary "Leave No Trace" outdoor awareness workshop on the 7 principles of responsible outdoor ethics. While windjammer captains have been practicing and teaching the Leave No Trace policies for years, this is an exciting opportunity for guests to learn the invaluable skills of properly caring for the environment. All guests who successfully complete the workshop will receive Leave No Trace certification.
In keeping with the June spirit of volunteerism and conservation, the Maine Windjammer Association will also host an official Coastal Cleanup during the week of June 5th, in conjunction with World Ocean Day. Guests and crewmembers will scour the beaches for trash that's washed ashore over the winter.
With hundreds of pristine islands in their sailing grounds, it's no wonder we are committed to preserving them. Sail this June and learn new skills to make a difference in your own backyard.
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