The state of Maine has to be one of the most marvelous places in North America to visit.  In the coldest of winters vacationers can enjoy staying in the cozy charming inns relaxing in luxury such as the Captain Lindsey House (an elegant nine room bed and breakfast located downtown Rockland, Maine – while sitting beside a crackling fire sipping on a fine port wine.  Sledding and skating are prime winter sports.  For some senior travelers the thought of sliding around on snow and ice might not be appealing, however; just wait until the Maine spring begins and watch the visitors flock in just as the geese head back north.  Around Memorial Day, Maine comes alive.  Teeming with southern and western guests, the mainland and islands fill up with travelers wanting to explore the Lobster Capitol of the world.  Museums abound throughout Maine.  Maritime, Arts and Crafts, Lighthouses, the Farnsworth, naval and history of shipbuilding museums are just waiting to fill you with fascination and knowledge all at a modest fee. 

Seniors in RV’s and those flying in or driving in private or rental cars can find lodging from inexpensive motels to high end resorts with all the pampering amenities.  One such resort is Samoset Resort on the Ocean .  Ths resort hosts a championship 18 hole golf course with Oceanside greens.  178 luxurious guestrooms and suites await you.  My suite was ground level and the view spectacular as I pulled back the drapes watching a foursome putt in.  Azure skies and white capping waves were the perfect backdrop for this luscious golf course.  Having stayed at Samoset, I discovered the menu items were just as delightful as the amenities and rooms.

In the distance was the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse.  A historically registered lighthouse, the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is over 104 years old.  Sitting 7/8ths of a mile out into the harbor, the lighthouse looks small as you stand ashore looking down the massive granite stones constructed for the breakwater (jetty).  This is one of the popular visitor attractions.  Wear comfortable walking shoes and take a walking stick.  The huge granite stones give an undulating appearance with a slightly uneven surface and gaps that measure from a couple of inches to almost a foot apart.  Don’t be alarmed though, with care and attention, the walk over the granite stones to the lighthouse is wonderful.  Local townspeople can be seen on either side of the breakwater fishing for crustaceans with a hook on a cord string.  Couples walking arm in arm enjoy the cool breeze and bright sun as they meander toward the lighthouse.  Senior history buffs will enjoy the stories surrounding this lighthouse and the building of the breakwater.   Any number of sailboats, windjammers, schooners, and lobster trawlers will be seen out in the harbor.  Even yachtsmen enjoy this area and share the waterways.

Because Rockland Maine is a popular windjammer docking port, take the time to invest in one of these fabulous cruises.  Even now while the weather is cold with spring around the corner, research your choice of windjammer cruises (Maine Windjammer Association ).   Reservations must be made for these cruises.  I chose the Stephen Taber schooner to cruise on.  Lasting from 3-6 days, you’ll spend each night in a snug below deck cabin large enough to accommodate two.  Each cabin on the Taber contained one or two bottom bunk type beds with extra wool blankets.  A petite corner sink and wall storage for small items such as glasses, books, and flashlights rounded out the cabin’s décor.  With the Stephen Taber schooner being all wood construction, the deck hands frequently doused the deck with ocean water to keep her in top form.  In the cabin, early morning, the aroma of wood smoke drifted in as the galley chef heated the old wood stove to begin preparing the day’s meals.  Coffee and fresh baked bread aromas wafted up from the galley and engulfed us as we gathered around the deck for breakfast. 

Launched in 1871, the Stephen Taber was constructed by shipwrights who took pride in their shipbuilding skills.  Aesthetic and functional, the Taber is a masterpiece.  When sails are in full billow, the gentle rock of the bow can hardly be felt, yet you know for sure she is sailing at top notch because of the fresh breeze blowing across your face.  This northeastern windjammer cruise is perfect for seniors.  Gentle, relaxing, and filled with opportunities to explore island villages and lighthouses throughout the Penobscot Bay, this cruise is one which many have returned to on a yearly basis.  Prices vary with the type and length of cruise desired.  The Stephen Taber cruises are all-inclusive except recreational beverages such as sodas and alcoholic drinks.  The policy on this is “BYOB” (bring your own beer/soda). 

Captain Noah Barnes, the newest captain in Taber history, is an excellent historian and fantastic entertainer while aboard the Taber.  Acquiring the Taber from his captain parents Ken and Ellen Barnes, Noah has been sailing aboard the Taber since the age of 7.  He takes great pride and joy in sharing Maine’s coastline and harbor histories.   The Taber’s crewmembers are highly trained men and women who are exceptional hosts.  An impeccable safety record follows the Taber.  When you see this magnificent vessel, you’ll be gazing at a lovingly restored historical treasure in continuous service since 1871.  For the single or couple who reserve a cruise aboard the Stephen Taber schooner, be prepared for leisurely sailing, intimate camaraderie, tantalizing lobster bakes, island exploration, and plenty of time to visit the harbor villages teeming with artisan shops, specialty stores, and friendly locals.

For this kind of destination vacation, pack light.  Jeans, walking shoes, water shoes, bathing suit, rain suit, and jacket are about all it takes plus a few mix and match shirts.  A camera is a must!!  Whether traveling to Maine in the spring with buds and blossoms coming forth, summer sun, or autumn colors, the memories you capture on film will last a lifetime.  My preference would be to travel yearly to Maine and take a cruise on the Taber renewing my memories in person!  For more information on specialty cruises and chartering or reservations contact Captain Noah Barnes, call 1-800-999-7352.  Happy Traveling!  (Photos taken by Rhonda Pipkin during fall 2004)