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Tall-masted sailing ships ply the waters off of both coasts of the United States, as well as the Great Lakes.

Ship: Manitou
Home Port: Northport, Michigan
This 114-foot gaff-rigged topsail schooner cruises the freshwater seas of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. Itinerary may include a visit to a historic lighthouse or an abandoned farm on the remote Manitou Islands, a fishing village on Beaver Island, or bustling Harbor Springs. The owners offer a three-day trip designated for families (ages eight and up) in June. Cost is $399 per person. Contact: Call (800) 678-0383, or visit www.tallshipsailing.com.

Ships: The Maine Windjammer Association
Home Ports: Up and down the coast of Maine
The association includes 13 two- and three-masted schooners, ranging in length from 64 to 132 feet. Vessels carry 20 to 44 passengers. Member ships are: Angelique, Grace Bailey, J. & E. Riggin, Lewis R. French, Mary Day, Mercantile (shown), Nathaniel Bowditch, Timberwind, Issac H. Evans, American Eagle, Stephen Taber, Heritage, and Victory Chimes. Rates for three- to six-day cruises range from $350 to $789 per person, all meals included. Season: Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Contact: Call (800) 807-9463, or visit www.sailmainecoast.com.

Ship: Roseway
Home Port: Camden, Maine
The schooner Roseway sails the Maine coast in the summer and the Virgin Islands in winter. This authentic Grand Banks fishing schooner, built in 1925, is one of just three boats of its type that are still sailing. Sign on for a three-night family cruise of coastal Maine, suitable for kids age five and up. One or two trips are offered each summer, typically in early August. Little seafarers take a turn at the wheel, explore a tide pool, and help set the sails. Cost is $449 for adults, $379 for kids. Contact: Call (888) 767-3929, or visit www.roseway.com.