Had a blast on the Schooner on the 4th. There is some historical information provided and a little bit of story telling without taking away from the scenery. There was a nice breeze on the water on the day I went and we were able to use the sails for pretty much the entire cruise. Capt Mike is great, as is his crew although I forgot their names. I passed on the refreshments as they seemed overpriced based on those around me that did get them, but otherwise it was blast. Been on a handful of cruises in the area, and this is the first one that fired a cannon, so that was a fun experience. read more

See all

I had mentioned to hubby that I wanted to take a local cruise on a sailing ship. Not too long after that, he noticed the ticket booth for Fame right on Pickering Wharf. They were closed, but he noted the website, and we checked it out. Not long after they opened for the season, he went to talk to Melissa at the ticket booth, who told him all about it. We were in! I booked us on a sunset cruise for June 24. We kept watching the weather during the day, and there were showers and downpours even as we ate dinner at Sea Level Oyster Bar. Fortune favored us, however, as the skies cleared just before the 5:00 cruise returned. We boarded with about ten other people, and we set off from the dock right on schedule. The Captain and crew told us about the Fame of Salem and the boatyard where she was built. The views were amazing, and once we got away from the dock, the crew asked for volunteers to help hoist sails! Hubby and I each helped, and the feel of the wind in my hair, as we started to pick up speed was awesome! Another couple on board got engaged during the cannon fire ceremony. It was sooo cool to be a part of that moment with them. Drinks and snacks are available on board, and paying was easy (we used Venmo.) The sunset views were breathtaking. There were great views around the harbor of homes and other boats. We will definitely do this again and are looking into doing a private charter for the end of the season! read more

See all

The Captain was so knowledgeable about the history of Salem and the Privateers, I learned so much during our sail. The Ship is a full replica of the Fame of Salem, so you're gonna have to take the trip to learn all about it. There was even a live demonstration of the canon firing that was commonly used on Schooners like the Fame. We booked this sunset cruise at the last minute online, so we got lucky to experience this on our last night in Salem. They sell drinks on board so be prepared with cash, or you can Venmo the crew to close out your tab. We didn't have a very windy day, but that didn't deter from the experience as we still got to cruise around the bay to experience the beautiful views. read more

See all

I took a sunset tour on The Fame and loved every minute! The crew was passionate, knowledgeable and engaging. Going on a sailboat has been a long sought adventure of mine, so I greatly enjoyed being able to raise the sails. On top of that, a passing boat blasted a cannon at us, and later we got to blast a cannon over the water. The lick of flame was huge for such a small cannon. I even got to eat hard tack for educational purposes. Later I jabbered about the tour instantly to family members when I got back home. Of all the things I did in Salem that day (and yes it was the 29th and so close to Halloween) this was easily the best. read more

We had a great time on our sunset trip on the Fame! Happened to book on Talk Like a Pirate Day so we also got songs and riddles! read more

Schooner Fame - The Fame - Tours Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

We really enjoyed this beautiful ride. It was about an hour and 45 minutes. We got to hoist the sales and steer the tiller. It was very peaceful and quiet on the water as we glided along on sail power. Until we came across a pirate ship and shot cannons at each other lol. It was an overcast, misty day, especially towards the end, but we loved the ambience. The crew were friendly and the captain told great stories. They had beverages for sale. Highly recommend. read more

See all

Took the sunset cruise and it was magical. The waters were calm and the boat silent as we toured the harbor. Children were entertained by the amazing crew who asked their assistance in raising the sails, steering and shooting the cannon. They also had some rope and taught knotting skills. Such a fun time. read more

My husband and I brought a friend of ours who stayed this past weekend with us. She was so excited when we told her we were going to Salem on Saturday. We took the ferry up from Boston, which of course was a great start to the day! This was a 4th or 5th schooner trip on the FAME of Salem. We loved it as much as our first time. The staff is so awesome....funny, warm, friendly, interacting with the passengers. I could laid in the sun on that boat for days. It was a relaxing and fun adventure. Cannot wait to do it again. Thank you for always making our adventure so great! read more

See all

My friend and I decided to have a little reunion on the Fame Sunday, August 7 late in the day. We ran into some sudden bad weather, which ended up resembling the rain scene from Caddy Shack. The beautiful sunset cruise turned into something way more memorable (in a good way) Fortunately The crew of Jonah and Pev under the leadership of Captain Miguel never wavered while ensuring safety and keeping everyone relaxed dealing with the rain storm. What an memorable afternoon read more

Excellent day Awesome captain First mate and skippers Knowledgeable fun Interactive And drinks on board read more

Schooner Fame - Tours Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

See all

This was such an amazing experience! We had so much fun! The ship was so nice, the crew was astounding, and you can help with the sails and steering the ship of you want to! They have drinks and snacks too. This was such a wonderful experience, i would do it again if i had time :) Highly recommend 100% read more

See all

Great day, crew was fun and safe. Went out into the cooler harbor. Captain gave us some good historical info about the ship and the area of the North Shore! Second time onboard, go out on the ocean, have a.few beers and breath in the salty air. Plenty of places to eat before or after! read more

My husband and I have never been on a schooner and it was just perfect. The Captain and crew were so friendly and kind. My husband and others helped hoist the sails and the Captain fired a tiny canon and then told a very interesting story about the history of the real Fame schooner! We would highly recommend this voyage to anyone visiting Salem, MA!! read more

See all

A Must Do! How cool! An 1812 replica schooner! With sails!! And a cannon that fired! The crew was so friendly and nice! The captain had so many good stories! We helped with the sails and steering, but it was a choice. Others enjoyed the view. What gorgeous views! We had yummy adult beverages-bring cash for that and to tip the crew. It was a highlight! Definitely would do again! read more

I took my daughter on this AWESOME harbor cruise for part of her 20th birthday in Salem. She loved the trip so much she can't wait to come back again. All 3 me on board, SORRY I can't remember the names other than Pete, we're SO very nice, informative, and friendly. Just such a great experience and SO worth the time. It's a great step away from all the "Witch" themed attractions and a different part of history to focus on. read more

This was one of our top three favorite experiences in Salem. We had no idea that the Fame was an option until a teenager in a coffee shop recommended we check them out. We sailed with Mike and two of his crew J? And J?. All three of them were so warm and enthusiastic. They welcomed us, let us help raise the sails, gave me a blanket, and played bartender. It was really windy the day we went so they were pretty excited because the boat was sailing really fast. It was half relaxing sailing trip and part thrill ride with all the wind! When possible Mike gave us a little history lesson on the boat and the War of 1812. He knows a lot about the war and about the area. If you want a taste of real Salem then I suggest giving the Fame a try. read more

See all

What a great find...the crew around Captain Ed was very pleasant and informative. We had the perfect weather and Enjoyed this historical Sightseeing-Tour. The crew was engaging and super friendly...well spent time...that made some great memories:-) Thank you Captain Ed and Crew!! read more

We have lived in Salem for about two years now and had until now avoided going on the Schooner Fame for fear that it would be like other Salem attractions -- a bit hokey and cheesy. We were so pleased with our experience! The crew members are very well versed in local geography and the maritime history of the surrounding area. The entire tour was informative, engaging, and a great experience. The crew also did an excellent job of reading the crowd. At one point the Captain let us know to ask him or his team any questions, said that we were more than welcome to assist with sails and steering, or alternatively, that we could just let him know we were looking to relax and that they would let us enjoy peacefully. We will so happily be back with any Salem visitors who come to stay with us! read more

Don't bother reading my review. Just go on the trip. Melissa is the first face of this ocean tour. She makes you feel right at home. The Captain and Crew took excellent care of us while boarding. The Fame is an excellent vessel and was a pleasure to ride aboard. We went out on a lovely day. Was guided and informed of what was around us and the history of the bay area. It was such a relaxing voyage. Well worth it. read more

Went on the October 10, 2022 sunset sailing with a group of girlfriends to kick off our stay in Salem. Rainy afternoon weather cleared just in time and we had an amazing time. I cannot recommend this enough - beautiful sunset, history lessons from Michael & Miguel about Salem Sound, privateering and schooners, friendly captain and crew. We had a lot of fun talking with the crew and other passengers & hoisting the sails. If you're thinking about it, don't think any further - just buy the tickets and go. Melissa in the ticket booth was beyond helpful with booking and returning my calls - & YES, the cannon is real!!! read more

This is the perfect way to spend a few hours in Salem. Enjoy the beauty of Salem Harbor, Marblehead, Beverly, and the north shore of Massachusetts aboard this replica of the Schooner Fame, a privateer ship from the War of 1812. The tour is great for couples, locals or visitors, and families looking for a special way to spend the day with one another! read more

See all

Sunset sail is a must! It's so beautiful and relaxing. Cheap good drinks and friendly crew! A must if you are in Salem!! read more

See all

Great sail on the Schooner Fame. Friendly knowledgeable captain and crew who made us feel safe and relaxed

The absolute highlight of a great day out in Salem. The captain and crew were friendly and knowledgeable, and made an effort to engage with every passenger. Excellent experience from booking to disembarking. read more

Capt. Michael Rutstein is a real gem. Super quick to respond, and happy to talk through options for our wedding day. When Covid-19 hit, we had to cancel our wedding event, and when we reached out to Capt. Rutstein to see what the policy was he said we could either reschedule or he could fully refund us. I was blown away by his quick response, how quick we received our refund check, and how kind and thoughtful he was about the whole process. We will absolutely be booking again as soon as it is safe to ask my family to get on a plane to see us for our special day. read more

Ok, I know I give a lot if Salem businesses five stars but the town is just seriously awesome. The Schooner Fame certainly adds to Salem's awesomeness. The $25 harbor cruise is about 90 mins and worth it! I love this replica ship and the crew who run it. The boat is quiet and smooth and meticulously looked after. Every year Captain Mike gives his boat a nice coat of paint. We left from Pickering Wharf and sailed around Salem sound, saw some of the beautiful homes in Marblehead. On the boat they sell beer $4, and margaritas $5, water $1 and snacks $1. Very reasonable. This is the best way to see Salem from the water. I've been on the other harbor cruises and this one out shines them all. 5 stars read more

We took a trip on the Fame and it was lovely. The crew was polite, knowledgeable and courteous. We lucked out and probably got the best possible weather; a good balance of sun and wind! My 80 year old landlubber mother really enjoyed the trip and special needs son had a blast. Everyone crew and passengers were kind and very supportive. If you are up for a little tourist adventure, this may be the thing. There is a little concession for drinks and snacks. Feel free to bring a picnic; vegetables with a dip, fruit, cheese and crackers would be really nice; the crew did not seem to mind a little BYOB. If you are feeling extra adventurous, there is an opportunity to help hoist the sails; they can fire the cannons and maybe even let you take the helm! read more

I always tell my friends if they are visiting to go on the Fame. It's a recreated privateer vessel. So if you have kids that want to pretend they are pirates (or if you are an adult that wishes to be one) this would be a perfect experience. Now do note it's a ship so you could in theory get seasick, it could be chilly, you will have to go to the bathroom somewhere that is very small, you are sitting outside on a ship. So if you are with someone that complains a lot just leave them on land and go on yourself and pretend you are shooting at them when they fire the cannons. Also bring binoculars so you can see the shoreline and such. read more

First time on the schooner fame Salem ma. Loved it. Crew was very polite and informative. It was exactly 1 hour and 45 min ride. It's the perfect thing to do on a hot summer day. Truly enjoyed myself. read more

See all

A windy and wonderful voyage, with a professional, prompt and polite crew. The captain provided a succinct and interesting history of the vessel. Fame of Salem, is a replica of an 1812 privateer. Passengers were invited to hoist the sails and work the ship. A perfect afternoon from launch, to cannon firing and return to dock. The ship was comfortable and not too crowded, our group of 4 had a wonderful time. read more

My gorgeous guest from Virginia and I (from Medford) had the honor of being on the last regular season sailing of the Fame on Labor Day. It seemed a few people must have canceled, as she and I ended up being the only ones aboard - talk about luck!! Now, they could have simply told us that due to the expense of setting sail, we'd not be able to go out. But no sir, the crew of four smiled and cast off with two passengers, and out to sea we went. A friendlier and nice crew we could not have had - we enjoyed a couple adult beverages and sailed for over an hour. I cannot more stongly reccomend doing this if in the area... The Fame is a fine vessel the crew without compare. And yes, the cannon firing was AWESOME. The head, or loo, or restroom is fine, its a marine flusher... but beyond that it's just lovely. read more

My first time in Salem and my first Rum Cruise. First of all, I want to thank all the staff for putting the ship on hold for us. Being our first time (as a group- 4 people) in Salem, we didn't know our way around and we were running late for the cruise. The staff of Schooner Fame called us and asked us if we were on our way. When we stated where we were and that we were 5 minutes away, they stated that they would wait for our arrival! Very nice of them!!!! Thank you!!!! On the cruise they had limeade grog, rum, and beer. They also had snacks for sale too. Drinks were $5 each, which isn't bad at all! Once aboard the ship, I was able to set the sails by helping to rise them. Tobias, whom was telling us stories and history of pirates, Salem, and the seas not only conversed with those on board the ship but also had the audience interact! While sailing, they set off a canon at sunset, danced, sang, and even saw the most beautiful sunset and moonrise on the East Coast. The beauty of the Salem Harbor will never be forgotten! Thank you for a memorable cruise! read more

I simply can't give this less than 5 stars, and it's not just because of the perfect sunny and breezy day we lucked out with. The crew is great! They're funny, chill and knowledgable. The drinks they offer make it even better and they let you help raise the sail and even steer. The sights are beautiful! Do yourself a favor and buy the ticket off of living social or groupon to get half off. Keep in mind you can't make a reservation with a coupon though (but we went on a Saturday at noon and didn't have any trouble getting on board!) read more

We did the sunset cruise, and wow, it was worth every penny and every second aboard! The captain was so extremely kind-- he made the entire experience. We had our 7 year old aboard with us, and he made her feel so special-- as if she were his first mate. He took time to converse with us one on one, and gave us wonderful tidbits and information about the area, history and sailing in general. His crew was very kind and friendly. It was a great experience. Oh, not to mention the beautiful views! read more

We stayed in Salem for Halloween and our afternoon on the FAME was the highlight of our trip. We were very luck to have perfect weather, but sailing on this ship was indeed a treat. Should certainly be on your list of activities if visiting Salem. read more

What an awesome afternoon for our family. We had a group of 9, ages 8-75, and we all had such a great time. I feel like we will be talking about this sailing trip for months and years to come. The captain and his staff were really friendly, knowledgeable and kept everything running so smoothly. They were fantastic with the kids in our group and let them steer and tack the boat, as well as be a part of the cannon experience. The weather was great and we all just had a really good time being out on the water together. I would highly recommend it! read more

On my recent visit to Salem, MA, I booked my friend and I on the 2 hour cruise "Rum and Revolution" aboard the Fame. Brilliant weather was complimented by music, history lessons, and even a lesson on how to dance the hornpipe delivered by "Tobias". I was even afforded the opportunity to help hoist the main and foresails. The view of Salem Harbor was not to be forgotten, the crew was fast and happy, and the captain displayed a quick wit. There were various drinks available for sale, along with snacks and souvenirs. If you are interested in sailing, and wish to experience a brief taste of the seafaring lore, don't miss an opportunity to board the Schooner FAME of Salem read more

I loved the sunset cruise! The boast is lovely, the crew very amiable and the live firing of the canon was awesome! I highly recommend this boat and staff for any cruise! read more

I brought my class of third graders on a sail with the Fame crew and it was hands down the BEST field trip of the year! We got over 2 hours on the ship, most of it sailing, and the kids got to operate the vessel! We had been studying colonial trade and piracy and the kids got an authentic experience aboard this schooner. Captain Michael Rutstein took time at the end to explain the historical significance of this replica schooner and how it was used for privateering during the War of 1812. We left with a copy of a book about the schooner's story and a boatload of smiles! I highly recommend booking a field trip or pleasure cruise with this competent, family-run company and fabulous vessel! read more

Had a groupon for the hour and a half schooner "Fame" this is a wonderful adventure. The staff was knowledgeable friendly and the boat is just large enough and comfortable. They serve wine and snacks on board at a fair price $5 wine. Wish the ride was longer thoroughly enjoyed FAME..... read more

See all