Before you sail

The captain makes the weather call, and safety wins every time. If a trip is canceled for weather, you choose: reschedule to another day, or a full refund. You will never be charged for a trip the weather takes away.

Cancel more than 48 hours before departure for a full refund. Inside 48 hours, we'll do our best to rebook the slot; if we can, you get your money back. No-shows are charged in full.

Absolutely, and they tend to be the best crew. One of our favorite reviews is from Lewella, age 10: "The best boat trip I've had since I was three." Kids must be able to sit still when asked and wear the life jackets we provide. For younger children, the Working Harbor Jaunt is the gentlest introduction.

There's a marine head (a boat toilet) below deck. It's simple but it works, and the captain will show you how. On longer trips with island stops, islands offer their own facilities, so to speak.

Layers, always. It can be 15 degrees cooler on the water, even in August. Soft-soled shoes (no black soles, no heels), sunglasses, sunscreen, and a windbreaker. Blankets are aboard for sunset cruises.Bring your own food and drinks on day sails; alcohol in moderation is fine. On the Lobster Bake, the food is the point and it's on us.

Downeast waters inside the islands are usually gentle, and a sailboat under sail is steadier than most people expect. If you're worried, book the Working Harbor Jaunt: it stays in protected water and is the trip we recommend for anyone concerned. If you use motion-sickness medication, take it before departure, not after you feel it.

Polaris Jack is a real sailing vessel, not a tour boat with a gangway. Every guest must be able to climb a short ladder and move themselves on and off the boat, and around it while aboard. If you're unsure whether that describes you or someone in your group, call the captain and talk it through honestly; he'd rather plan around it than surprise you at the dock.

Trips sail from South Addison, Maine, about 45 minutes east of Ellsworth (an hour from Bar Harbor). Exact meeting and parking directions come with your booking confirmation, and the captain confirms by phone the day before.

Either way. When there's room, Mavis loves to join; if anyone in your group would rather sail without a dog, just say so when you book. Your own dogs, sadly, must sit this one out.

Polaris Jack carries 4 guests, firm; it's what makes the trip feel like your boat rather than a tour. For larger groups, write the captain: split trips and multi-departure days can often be arranged.