Top 5 Vermont Cruises & Sailing Tours: Your Guide

Thinking about a getaway on the water? So, check out Vermont, which, very likely, isn’t the first spot that springs to your mind when you’re dreaming of cruises and sailing, very much, does pack a punch when it comes to scenic boat tours. Now, with the stunning backdrop of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains, very, these tours, typically, give you, like your, a different look at the Green Mountain State. Very, very different! What makes them a total hit? So, it’s a pretty cool blend of gorgeous landscapes, historical tidbits, and super laid-back vibes. This guide zooms in on five awesome cruises and sailing experiences Vermont has up its sleeve. Very possibly one will appeal.

1. The Spirit of Ethan Allen III: A Classic Lake Champlain Cruise

So, first up is the Spirit of Ethan Allen III, which might be a kind of signature Lake Champlain experience. That’s a cruise on a sizable boat, which can accommodate plenty of passengers, for all sorts of events, from casual sightseeing tours to fancy dinner cruises. Very classic!

Now, one reason this particular cruise is popular is its versatility. Day trips typically provide amazing views of the Adirondack and Green Mountains, plus a narrated history of the area that makes the trip even more engaging. And what makes it something extra? Themed cruises. Basically, depending on the season and day, there may be special packages that feature live music, dinner buffets, and holiday celebrations, that really boost the onboard mood.

Then too, the Spirit of Ethan Allen III runs out of Burlington, which is, almost, a charming city to explore before or after the cruise. Very charming! Just, the city has an energetic waterfront area, complete with shops, eateries, and parks. So, you could make a day of it. Very likely!

Why might you choose this cruise? The size of the boat means there’s heaps of space to stroll around, get a different view from any angle, and there is no issue, too, with seating options. The narrated tours do a good job too. They provide info on historical and geographical features, too. Plus? A little something that almost everyone loves: the cruise operates rain or shine, thanks to, mainly, its multiple indoor decks.

Are there things you should keep in mind? That the cruise will appeal more if you value comfort and options over intimate, very private, tour experiences. So, you might find the large-group setting feels less cozy, though quite social.

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2. Whistling Man Schooner Co.: A Trip on a Real Schooner

If what you are craving is a little touch of nautical adventure, then, too, Whistling Man Schooner Co. gives that sailing thrill on Lake Champlain. And it has something special! Namely, that they run trips on an actual schooner, letting people, like your, soak in the excitement of classic sailing. This experience is less about motorized sightseeing and, more or less, a hands-on, wind-powered sail.

Trips on the Whistling Man vary, though they do include sunset sails, daytime scenic tours, and some, seemingly, special events. Setting off from Burlington, so, the schooner takes small groups, which boosts, that, a feeling of intimacy and personalized attention from the crew.

This type of trip tends to grab anyone wanting to experience real sailing, and feel involved in the sailing process. What’s totally cool? So, people can help hoist the sails, learn basic sailing skills, or simply just enjoy the peace of sailing across open water.

But it also offers, possibly, a bit of historical value too. You will sail onboard a well-kept schooner. Just a few of its features? An elegant design, which might be great for photos and anyone who fancies vintage sailing vessels. This all tends to enhance your connection to Lake Champlain’s nautical background.

Very cool thing about Whistling Man is that they can create private charters that, basically, customize sailing trips. Think of, like your, an exclusive celebration with friends, a family gathering, or even a corporate event. The schooner is all yours, creating very lasting memories. Just a thought: It’s worth asking beforehand, for, basically, information about the crew, its involvement and its willingness to allow, that, guest participation. Are you a sailing purist? Very likely this trip fits.

Anything to bear in mind? Then, too, this option is a good pick if you enjoy activity during your sightseeing. Do you want to stretch your sea legs a bit, as well as drink in a scenic tour? Excellent!

You, or anyone, looking for the smoothness and predictability of motorized cruises may want to seek a different experience. Also: Weather has an effect. In this case the wind will definitely call the shots!

Read our full review: Whistling Man Schooner Co Tour Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Whistling Man Schooner Co)

3. Let’s Go Sailing: Intimate Sailing on Smaller Vessels

Want something pretty personal? Now, Let’s Go Sailing on Lake Champlain delivers that. This is thanks to their smaller boat tours. It’s often, very often, the preferred experience of those who prefer small groups. What happens on these more intimate voyages? You, likely, develop a closer relationship with the lake itself.

What’s really cool? With Let’s Go Sailing you can choose from various packages to really dial in on specific interests and needs. So, they tend to range from easygoing daytime sails to stunning sunset cruises, with options for private charters too. Their yachts allow very personal experiences. So, too it’s almost like exploring the lake your way.

Another great reason to opt for smaller boats? The ability to, very, access areas along the coast that bigger vessels simply can’t get close to. These smaller tours enable one to find some out-of-the-way coves, quiet anchorages, and secluded spots along the shoreline of Lake Champlain.

For anyone wanting that personal touch and customized attention during a boat tour, these folks might deliver on just that. Crews on these boats tend to prioritize attention, and create a customized cruise for small groups of friends or loved ones.

Do they, similarly to, cater to a range of interests? Yes. Are you very interested in photography? Do you like birdwatching? Are you wanting a tranquil sail to think, ponder and be inspired by the scenery? That, sometimes, can all be adjusted for to fit the pace you choose and your passions.

Important consideration? They aren’t, virtually, all things to all people. Larger boats typically offer stability. So, too it’s almost worth assessing your sensitivity to movement on the water. It is worth confirming, that, if particular destinations on the lake will feature on your journey. Why? With this operator itineraries tend to change because the wind shifts.

Read our full review: Lets Go Sailing Champlain Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Lets Go Sailing)

4. Lake Champlain Ferries: A Different Perspective from a Working Vessel

How about something really unusual? Consider taking a tour aboard one of the Lake Champlain Ferries. This isn’t like the other cruises because its main objective is simple: to carry cars and passengers between Vermont and New York. Even so, the rides yield very beautiful panoramic views of Lake Champlain. What you gain might be insight to daily lake life too!

Here, practicality is very essential to the draw of it. These ferries, really, offer something accessible to a whole variety of budgets and timetables. Even a short trip on the ferry gives you a feel for the water. It’s kind of seeing lake life in action!

This alternative does let people see a distinct perspective. Travelers, generally, mix with locals and visitors heading back and forth across the lake. You get a cross-section of humanity right there. You aren’t, arguably, on a boat primarily for entertainment or sightseeing.

Since they are running often all day, every day, the Lake Champlain Ferries really make things uncomplicated if you just want to get on the water and admire a fresh view. So, a nice break from driving.

And the convenience? So, some of these ferries connect points of interest on either side of Lake Champlain. Spend a little bit exploring destinations such as Burlington, Vermont and Port Kent, New York. Or simply hop aboard and then immediately head back again, still taking in the atmosphere from on deck!

Take these factors into consideration. Then, too, the point is transport! That means the vessels aren’t meant for leisurely viewing. Consider: they likely won’t make exceptions if visibility should be very poor. They simply run their timetabled schedule.

Consider, too, whether a ‘no-frills’ experience will match your needs, that’s really at the essence of things. Also be aware that there will likely be noise from vehicles, and announcements, aboard.

Read our full review: Lake Champlain Ferries Vermont Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Lake Champlain Ferries)

5. Northern Lights Paddle: Kayak and Canoe Tours

What about something completely different again? Northern Lights Paddle hands you an oar! What they do, quite skillfully, is provide kayak and canoe tours on Lake Champlain. So, these offer an awesome method of checking out the quieter bits, which tend to be ignored by bigger tour boats.

Northern Lights Paddle stands out, because its focus on eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism tends to really be attractive for eco-conscious visitors. Very interesting!

These paddles give something distinctive in a couple of key respects. One? The slower pace. Paddlers go close to the water and will usually appreciate the peace and beauty around them. Second? Immersion. The boats move closer, usually, than bigger ones can get to marshes, river mouths and wildlife habitats. It’s a whole different angle.

This company delivers on guided tours tailored, naturally, for every skill level; people of every stripe are invited. You can see the highlights while still receiving practical support and instruction from skilled guides.

They tend to schedule a series of special paddles, as well as the routine scheduled outings. Full-moon paddles, sunset paddles, birdwatching paddles – basically you can match up the activities to the experiences most meaningful for yourself.

Are you interested in a little personal exploration? If that’s your wish, Northern Lights Paddle rents boats that let one roam Lake Champlain’s shore on his or her own terms. What’s awesome? This lets folks follow personalized schedules. You will explore regions most captivating to them at whatever tempo suits their tastes.

Do take a few points into consideration, however. Previous experience makes these paddles more exciting and risk-free; but that doesn’t make them impossible. Safety is very paramount! Northern Lights Paddle generally ensures that everyone understands and puts into practice all protocols meant to, mainly, help lower threats associated with open-water kayaking. They take responsibility. Should winds pick up on Lake Champlain you might well be exposed out there in the open water. Conditions have an immediate bearing. Finally: Pay careful attention when gauging how in shape you, truly, are!

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