NESS & Sailing Ships Maine Launch Liveaboard Sailing Voyages for Teens

This summer, the New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS) is partnering with Sailing Ships Maine to offer an exciting new opportunity for teen sailors: Liveaboard Sailing Voyages, immersive multi-day overnight programs designed to build confidence, leadership, and life skills through hands-on adventure at sea.

These unique programs invite students ages 12–18 aboard Karina, a Swan 37 offshore cruising yacht, for unforgettable overnight sailing experiences on Long Island Sound. Guided by a professional Captain and Mate, students will learn to steer, navigate, anchor, cook on board, and work together as a crew while exploring coastal waters and island anchorages.

“Some of the most meaningful growth happens when students are challenged in new environments and learn to rely on themselves and each other,” said Spike Lobdell, Founder & CEO of NESS. “These liveaboard voyages give students the chance to build confidence, resilience, and teamwork in a truly unforgettable setting, while deepening their connection to the ocean.”

For more than 12 years, Sailing Ships Maine has led accredited overnight sailing programs for teens from its base in Portland, Maine. Recently named U.S. Sea Education Program of the Year by Tall Ships America and the American Sail Training Association, the organization brings nationally recognized expertise in experiential maritime education to this partnership.

Programs feature small crews, personalized instruction, and immersive learning opportunities that align closely with NESS’s core values of Experiential Learning, Inclusiveness, Personal Growth, and Stewardship.

“We are huge fans of NESS and share their belief that students are eager for more adventure and less technology in their lives,” said Alex Agnew, Executive Director of Sailing Ships Maine. “There’s something powerful about disconnecting from screens and reconnecting with the natural world, your crew, and yourself. We’re excited to partner with NESS to help more students experience that kind of growth on the water.”

Summer 2026 Program Offerings:

Sound Discovery Weekend (Ages 13–17)
3 Days, 2 Nights | June 26–28
A perfect introduction to overnight sailing. Students board Friday evening in Stonington Harbor and spend the weekend sailing and anchoring in Long Island Sound while learning navigation and seamanship.

Coastal Expedition (Ages 14–18)
5 Days, 4 Nights | June 29–July 3, July 20–24, August 3–6
An immersive coastal sailing adventure visiting islands and hidden anchorages. Students develop weather awareness, navigation skills, cruising systems knowledge, and teamwork while living aboard.

Marine Mavens Liveaboard (Girls Ages 12–17)
3 Days, 2 Nights | July 10–12, August 14–16

An all-girls overnight sailing experience focused on adventure, leadership, confidence, and connection on the water.

All programs include meals and are designed for both experienced sailors and motivated beginners ready for a challenge.

Registration is now open, with limited spots available due to intentionally small crew sizes.

To learn more and register, visit givebutter.com/NESS26.

For financial aid inquiries, contact info@sailingshipsmaine.org.

ABOUT NESS
New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS) is a nationally recognized, award-winning nonprofit that empowers students through ocean-based experiential learning. Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), NESS engages students of all ages and abilities through sailing, marine science, and adventure sports. 

ABOUT SAILING SHIPS MAINE

Sailing Ships Maine delivers accredited experiential education for teens through sailing, rowing, and boatbuilding programs. Since 2015, the organization has helped more than 2,000 students of all abilities and income levels discover the ocean, build leadership and teamwork skills, and explore maritime pathways. Through youth programs and public events, Sailing Ships Maine expands access to the ocean while supporting the marine economy and preserving maritime heritage.