Discovery Voyages 2026 Program Overview & Schedule

Set sail from Portland for a relaxed coastal voyage to Richmond Island, where you’ll enjoy a traditional lobster bake ashore. The following morning, we’ll return to Portland Yacht Services, arriving early afternoon. This adult-focused, crew-for-hire experience offers a unique opportunity to enjoy Maine’s coast while connecting with the mission behind the voyage.

This six-day voyage introduces students to marine science through hands-on exploration of Casco Bay. Participants will visit island ecosystems and engage directly with coastal environments. A highlight includes a visit to the UNE Marine Science Center. Students will actively participate in sailing operations, navigation, and shipboard life. This voyage builds a strong foundation in marine science and seamanship.

This voyage focuses on Maine’s shipbuilding industry and maritime economy. Students will sail through Casco Bay while learning about vessel construction and operations. Visits include Bath Iron Works and the Maine Maritime Museum. Participants will take part in daily vessel operations and navigation. This program highlights maritime trades and career pathways.

This extended voyage explores offshore ecosystems, whale habitats, and fisheries. Students will sail through areas such as Stellwagen Bank and Jeffreys Ledge. Stops include Gloucester, Provincetown, and New Bedford. Participants will gain experience in offshore navigation and long passages. This is the most immersive marine science voyage offered.

This flagship voyage sails offshore to New York City. Students will visit Mystic Seaport and engage with maritime history. The voyage includes participation in OpSail New York events. Participants gain extensive offshore and overnight sailing experience. This is a premier, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. https://youtube.com/watch?v=NQdrPNhsZYc&feature=shared

This voyage continues from New York to Boston. Students transit the East River and Cape Cod Canal. Participation in Sail Boston provides exposure to international tall ships. A visit to the New England Aquarium enhances marine science learning. This voyage blends sailing, events, and education.

This voyage combines maritime events with marine science. Students participate in Sail Boston activities. Sailing north includes time in whale-rich waters. Participants gain hands-on navigation and sailing experience. This voyage focuses on marine ecosystems and offshore travel.

This voyage combines marine science with shipbuilding exposure. Students visit UNE, BIW, and the Maine Maritime Museum. Sailing through Casco Bay provides varied coastal experiences. Participants engage in navigation and vessel operations. This program blends science and industry learning.

This voyage explores Maine’s Midcoast and aquaculture industry. Students visit the Darling Marine Center, Herring Gut, and Hurricane Island. Sailing includes tidal navigation and coastal passages. Participants learn about environmental systems and sustainability. This voyage emphasizes marine science and place-based learning.

This voyage explores Penobscot Bay and its island systems. Students visit Maine Maritime Academy and Hurricane Island. Sailing includes the Fox Island Thorofare. Participants engage in navigation and teamwork. This voyage offers a full coastal sailing experience.

This second Penobscot Bay voyage builds on prior experience. Students revisit key locations and deepen skills. Stops include Stonington and Castine. Participants expand their seamanship and navigation abilities. This voyage reinforces hands-on learning.

This voyage blends marine science with maritime trades. Students visit shipyards, sailmakers, and research centers. Sailing includes varied coastal routes. Participants take part in all vessel operations. This program highlights both science and craftsmanship.

This voyage returns to Casco Bay for continued exploration. Students visit Seguin Island and Herring Gut. Sailing south reinforces navigation skills. Participants engage in marine science and teamwork. This is a strong closing voyage for students.

This voyage focuses on offshore whale habitats. Students sail through major feeding grounds. The program emphasizes marine biology and observation. Participants gain offshore sailing experience. This voyage highlights ocean ecosystems.

This adult voyage focuses on marine science and experiential learning. Participants visit UNE and Herring Gut. Sailing includes coastal and offshore elements. The program is designed for educators and adult learners. It provides both professional and personal enrichment.

This adult voyage explores shipbuilding and maritime trades. Participants visit shipyards and sailmakers. The program includes an onboard reception and networking opportunities. Sailing reinforces hands-on vessel experience. This voyage highlights craftsmanship and maritime heritage.