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PORT JEFFERSON, N.Y. — Long Islanders looking for a unique summer adventure have an opportunity to step aboard a piece of living maritime history as the 125-foot schooner Liberty Clipper continues offering daily sailing excursions from Port Jefferson Harbor through June 30.
Docked at Harborfront Park in the heart of Port Jefferson Village, the traditionally rigged tall ship is providing visitors with an authentic sailing experience on Long Island Sound while showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship of a classic schooner.
Guests can choose between daytime sails and evening sunset cruises. Day sails are priced at $58.05 for adults and $36.94 for children, while sunset sails are $72.82 for adults and $36.94 for children. Each sailing experience lasts approximately two hours and departs from Harborfront Park, Port Jefferson.
The Liberty Clipper features traditional sails including a mainsail, foresail, jib, staysails, and topsails. During each voyage, passengers can relax on deck and enjoy panoramic views of Port Jefferson Harbor and Long Island Sound, or become part of the crew experience by helping raise sails and taking a turn at the ship’s helm.
“Nothing beats seeing the harbor, open water, and local wildlife from the spacious deck of a tall ship,” crew members say. The vessel frequently encounters marine life during its sails, including seals, porpoises, and occasionally even whales.
Boarding begins ten minutes before departure, followed by a safety orientation. The ship leaves the dock under engine power before turning into the wind and raising sail. Guests are invited to participate in setting the sails and learning about traditional seamanship as the crew shares information about the ship and the surrounding area.
The experience includes a U.S. Coast Guard-inspected vessel equipped with all required safety equipment and operated by a licensed captain and professional crew. While guests are welcome to bring their enthusiasm for sailing, alcoholic beverages, crew gratuities, and merchandise purchases are not included in the ticket price.
Visitors are encouraged to dress appropriately for weather conditions. Temperatures on the water are often five to ten degrees cooler than on land, making a light jacket or sweatshirt a good idea even on warm summer days.
The schooner can accommodate up to 75 passengers per trip. While the crew works to assist all guests in boarding comfortably, the vessel is not wheelchair accessible due to the historic design of the ship.
For those planning ahead, the Liberty Clipper offers flexible options if weather impacts a sailing. Guests who cancel more than 72 hours before departure are eligible for an 80 percent refund, while sailings canceled by weather or operational reasons can be rescheduled or fully refunded.
As summer tourism season gets underway, the Liberty Clipper’s visit adds another attraction to Port Jefferson’s vibrant waterfront. Combining history, adventure, and spectacular views, the schooner offers visitors a memorable way to experience one of Long Island’s most scenic harbors.
For schedules, reservations, and additional information, visit the Liberty Clipper’s website at www.libertyclipper.com.
By Long Island Daily News Editor Samantha Vogel
booking: https://www.portjeffny.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/236