Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey - Image 1
1 / 3

Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey

4.7
·9 reviews·New Bedford, United States

Sail aboard a historic schooner, exploring coastal waters and experiencing maritime heritage firsthand. A journey through time and sea.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect weather for sails

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey - Image 1

Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect weather for sails

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Sail aboard a historic schooner, exploring coastal waters and experiencing maritime heritage firsthand. A journey through time and sea.

4.7
(9 reviews)

"Such an incredible ship and highly recommend visiting and going for a cruise!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⚓ Book your sail early!

Sails on the Ernestina-Morrissey are popular and sell out fast. Book online in advance!

📸 Capture the history

Bring your camera for stunning shots of this historic vessel and the scenic waters.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Sail

Sunset Sail

Buzzards Bay

Experience the magic of sailing as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow on the water. A truly unforgettable evening.

Instagram
Historic Voyage Reenactment

Historic Voyage Reenactment

New Bedford Harbor

Learn about the schooner's incredible past, from Arctic exploration to bringing immigrants to the US. Feel the history come alive.

Instagram
Gloucester Schooner Festival

Gloucester Schooner Festival

Gloucester, MA

Witness a majestic parade of sail, with Ernestina-Morrissey often racing against other renowned schooners. A spectacle of maritime heritage.

Instagram+1
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Sail in Advance

Sails on the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey are popular and often book up quickly, especially during peak season. Check the official schedule and reserve your spot online to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Check the Schedule for Events

Beyond regular sails, the Ernestina-Morrissey participates in festivals and special events like the Gloucester Schooner Festival. These offer unique viewing opportunities and a chance to see her alongside other historic vessels. Instagram

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Perfect weather for sails
Crowd
Medium
When
Festival weekends
Why
Exciting maritime events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Spent a beautiful weekend on board the Schooner American Eagle off the coast of Gloucester. The crew ran a flawless and exhilarating race on Sunday, with the Ernestina-Morrissey (the state schooner of MA) within less than one boat length for most of the course, to take first place and win the Esperanto Cup for the third straight year under Captain Tyler King. Pictured is the legendary Schooner Col...
reesefulmer
130 likes • 2.3K views

⚓ Book your sail early!

Sails on the Ernestina-Morrissey are popular and sell out fast. Book online in advance! Instagram

📸 Capture the history

Bring your camera for stunning shots of this historic vessel and the scenic waters. Instagram

THE SSV Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey captured here on her way to Tall Ships 2025 in Detroit Michigan this week. She was originally built in 1894 at the James and Tarr Shipyard for the Gloucester fishing fleet.  She has sailed to within 600 miles of the North Pole and later brought immigrants to the U.S. under power of sail. In 1982, she was returned to the U.S. as a gift for the Commonwealth of...
windsoraerialdrone
4 likes • 314 views
Come Monday Parade of Sail 2023 Gloucester Schooner Festival See full length version at link in bio Featuring Schooners: Adventure, American Eagle, Columbia, Denis Sullivan, Ernestina-Morrissey, Adventurer, Alert, Ardelle,, Fame, Thomas E. Lannon, Tyrone, When and If, Calabash, Eileen Marie, Green Dragon, Isabella, Lewis H. Story, Redbird, Strombus
kimsmithdesigns
47 likes • 578 views

📜 Learn about her voyages

The crew shares fascinating stories of her past explorations and journeys. Instagram

🌊 Experience Buzzards Bay

Enjoy a peaceful sail and beautiful coastal views on a trip around Buzzards Bay. Instagram

Welcome Home, Ernestina! After seven years of restoration in Maine, we’re celebrating the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey’s long-awaited homecoming to New Bedford. #savebuzzardsbay #buzzardsbaycoalition #ernestinamorrissey #schooner #schoonerernestinamorrissey #newbedford #downtownnewbedford #newbedfordma #massachusetts #capeverde #newbedfordharbor
savebuzzardsbay
158 likes • 5.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⚓ Book your sail early!

Sails on the Ernestina-Morrissey are popular and sell out fast. Book online in advance! Instagram

📸 Capture the history

Bring your camera for stunning shots of this historic vessel and the scenic waters. Instagram

📜 Learn about her voyages

The crew shares fascinating stories of her past explorations and journeys. Instagram

🌊 Experience Buzzards Bay

Enjoy a peaceful sail and beautiful coastal views on a trip around Buzzards Bay. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(9 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey for its rich history and the incredible experience of sailing on a classic vessel. The knowledgeable and friendly crew are frequently highlighted for enhancing the journey with captivating stories. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, some visitors have noted that the schooner may be closed for maintenance or during off-season, leading to disappointment.

"This was such an amazing experience , went on the sunset sail on a a vessel with so much history and an amazing Captain and crew"

F. Gomes

"Such an incredible ship and highly recommend visiting and going for a cruise"

Adam Bundy

"Wonderful vessel! We watched her dock at Wareham/onset."

Andrew Bennett

What People Like

Historic vessel experience
Knowledgeable and friendly crew
Beautiful sailing trips

What People Dislike

Occasional closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey is primarily docked in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Visitors can reach New Bedford by car via I-95 and I-195. Public transportation options include bus services to the New Bedford bus terminal. Parking is available near the waterfront, though it can be busy during events. Instagram

Her home port is New Bedford, MA, where she undergoes maintenance and departs for sails. She also makes appearances at various maritime festivals along the coast. Instagram+1

While the primary way to experience the schooner is through a sail, she is sometimes open for dockside visits during special events or festivals. It's best to check the official schedule for any such opportunities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for sails can be booked directly through the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey Association's official website. It's highly recommended to book in advance, as sails often fill up. Instagram

Ticket prices vary depending on the type and duration of the sail. Check the official website for the most current pricing information for sunset sails, day trips, or special event sails. Instagram

Information on potential discounts for groups, students, or seniors is usually available on the booking website. It's worth checking for any special offers or membership benefits. Reddit

Cancellation policies can vary. It's important to review the terms and conditions when booking, as weather-related cancellations may result in rescheduling or refunds. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect a memorable maritime experience! You'll sail on a historic vessel, learn about her incredible past from the knowledgeable crew, and enjoy scenic views of the coast. InstagramReddit

Yes, sailing on the Ernestina-Morrissey can be a wonderful experience for families. Children can learn about maritime history and enjoy the thrill of being on a tall ship. TikTok

Dress in layers as the weather on the water can change. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are essential. A windbreaker or jacket is also recommended, even on warm days. Reddit

Absolutely! The Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey offers fantastic photo opportunities. Remember to secure your camera or phone, especially when the boat is moving. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, sails do not include food or beverages. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks if needed. Some longer sails might have specific provisions, so check the details when booking. Reddit

New Bedford's waterfront and downtown area offer a variety of dining options, from casual seafood shacks to more formal restaurants, perfect for before or after your sail. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset sails offer dramatic lighting and beautiful skies, making them ideal for photography. Early morning sails can also provide soft, beautiful light with fewer crowds. Instagram

Generally, photography and videography are encouraged. However, always be mindful of other passengers and the crew's instructions, especially during sailing maneuvers. Instagram

You can capture stunning wide shots of the schooner under sail, close-ups of the intricate rigging and wooden details, and scenic shots of the vessel against the backdrop of the coastline. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

A sail on the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey can be an exciting adventure for families. Kids will be fascinated by the sheer size of the ship and the idea of sailing like in olden times. The crew often engages younger passengers with stories and explanations of how the sails and rigging work, making it an educational and fun outing. TikTok

Tips for families: Dress in layers, as it can get breezy on the water. Bring snacks and drinks, as they are usually not provided. Ensure children are supervised at all times and follow the crew's safety instructions. The experience offers a great opportunity to disconnect from screens and connect with history and nature. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey is a dream subject for photographers. Her classic lines, intricate rigging, and the ever-changing coastal scenery provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Sunset sails are particularly popular for their dramatic lighting and vibrant skies, creating breathtaking images. Instagram

Photography tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the schooner and its surroundings, and a telephoto lens for details of the rigging and sails. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the sky and water. Always ensure your equipment is secure, as sea spray and movement are part of the experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Legacy of Exploration and Service

The Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey is more than just a beautiful sailing vessel; she's a floating piece of history. Originally built in 1894 in Gloucester, Massachusetts, she served the fishing fleet before embarking on a remarkable career. Her voyages have taken her to the Arctic, within 600 miles of the North Pole, and she famously sailed to the United States from the Cape Verde Islands, bringing immigrants under sail power. Instagram

This rich history is a key part of the experience for visitors. The crew often shares tales of these incredible journeys, allowing passengers to connect with the schooner's adventurous past. The vessel underwent a significant restoration, returning to New Bedford after extensive work, ready to continue her legacy. Instagram+1

Her participation in maritime festivals, like the Gloucester Schooner Festival, highlights her enduring significance in the world of tall ships. Seeing her alongside other historic vessels underscores her place in maritime heritage. Instagram

Experiencing a Sail on the Ernestina-Morrissey

Taking a sail on the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey offers a unique perspective on maritime life. Whether it's a sunset cruise on Buzzards Bay or a longer day trip, the experience is designed to be both relaxing and educational. Passengers get to feel the power of the wind in the sails and the gentle sway of the ocean. Instagram

The crew plays a vital role in making the experience memorable. They are not only skilled sailors but also passionate storytellers, eager to share the schooner's history and the intricacies of sailing. This personal touch transforms a simple boat ride into an immersive journey. InstagramReddit

For those interested in art, the schooner has even inspired creative endeavors. Exhibitions featuring artwork made from recycled materials from the Ernestina-Morrissey showcase the vessel's impact beyond the maritime world, demonstrating her cultural resonance. Instagram+1

You may also like