J. & E. Riggin

The J. & E. Riggin is a wooden two-masted schooner with a distinctive spoon bow and low sides, retaining many original components from its construction era. The vessel measures about 120 feet long and operates as a sailing ship for coastal cruises along Maine's waters.

Built in 1927 in Dorchester, New Jersey, the vessel initially served as an oyster dredging boat before transitioning to groundfish and mackerel fishing in the 1940s. Later converted to carry passengers, it reflects the evolving maritime uses along Maine's coast.

The schooner operates as one of Maine's working sailing vessels, representing the maritime heritage that shaped the region's identity. Visitors experience the active sailing traditions that have connected coastal communities for generations.

Visitors can book multi-day sailing trips and stay aboard in cabins while enjoying meals cooked on a traditional wood stove. Trips travel between coastal towns, and passengers should expect variable weather conditions.

The vessel relies on a small auxiliary boat for propulsion instead of an engine, maintaining traditional maritime engineering and historical authenticity. This choice keeps sailing central to every journey rather than a supplementary feature.

Location: Rockland

Inception: 1927

GPS coordinates: 44.10722,-69.10639

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:24