Lake Champlain Cruise: Explore Historic Shipwrecks

Sail Lake Champlain’s history with expert tales of shipwrecks and smugglers. Limited spots—book now for an intimate, educational adventure.

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Whistling Man Schooner Co. - Embark on the Friend Ship at 1 College Street, where the captain and a Maritime Museum historian will introduce you to the vessel and the historical importance of Lake Champlain. As the journey begins into Burlington Bay, unwind and enjoy the picturesque harbor views while learning about the lake’s geography and its…
What's Included
  • 2-hour guided sailing cruise on Lake Champlain
  • Expert narration by Captain Matt Harrison or trained crew
  • Use of onboard amenities including serveware, glassware, and ice storage
  • Access to water and onboard blankets/fleeces (as needed)
What's Not Included
  • Food and beverages (guests may bring their own)
  • Transportation to/from departure point
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Embark on a journey across Lake Champlain aboard the Friend Ship, a traditional 31’ Friendship sloop, and delve into the fascinating history of this picturesque lake. Guided by Captain Matt Harrison, a renowned Champlain historian, this 2-hour cruise visits notable shipwreck sites such as the General Butler and the Burlington Horse Ferry. Revel in…

Location
Whistling Man Schooner Co.
College Street
In front of the ECHO Center building, you will see a lakeside pavilion overlooking the marina. Directly in front of the ECHO's pavilion, you will see a ramp leading down to the docks. There is signage pointing toward ‘A-Dock’. Our ships are the first two that you'll see walking down this ramp.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(10 Ratings)
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1 star
51rhondad
Sep 17, 2025
Want to cruise again! - We took a lunch cruise and were the only couple onboard, so we had wonderful service. We could’ve brought lunch aboard to enjoy during the cruise…Will do next time. The schooner Friendship was beautiful! Captain Bubba and 1st Mate Oliver were personable and showed us around Lake Champlain, engaging us with tales of the explorers who discovered it, as well as its roll in our nation’s history, from the Revolutionary War until today. It was a major highlight of our vacation. Thank you, Whistling Man Schooners!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
D6785yzdenisem
Sep 7, 2025
Amazing! - It was the most beautiful day! Learn more about Lake Champlain’s history and beauty because Captain Bob was full of knowledge. He made our 2 hour trip fun along with his helper. What a great day on the lake. We got our tickets the morning we sailed because the weather was going to be perfect and it was!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lauracw6670yl
Aug 18, 2025
Most pleasant and relaxing day of the summer! - From the moment we arrived to when we disembarked, Captain Charlie and Lori made the day special for us. The weather was beautiful but the wind wasn’t as strong as we needed to be under full sail, needing the engine to support our sail. This did not deter from a wonderful voyage. Captain Charlie had a great knowledge of the lake, its history and points of interest along both the VT and NY shores. First mate Lori worked hard, hoisting the sails, the jib, the gaff and making sure we had water, ice, cups, plates, napkins for the picnic we brought onboard. Not once did we feel unsafe or insecure. It was so peaceful on the water even though there were a number of power boats and sailing vessels moving about. At the end of the sail, docking of the boat was textbook without any bumps or uneasy movements. I would definitely book another sail with this team!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Crewrest
Aug 10, 2025
Small group on a beautiful schooner. - We sailed around on Lake Champlain for several peaceful hours. Cory the captain was very knowledgeable about the boats and lake history
Review provided by Tripadvisor
H9837pjlisas
Aug 7, 2025
Relaxing sail on Lake Champlain - Friendly staff, beautiful boat and lots of Lake Champlain lore. Shout out to Laslow, our captain, and first mate JP. Thank you!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Thomash8855
Aug 6, 2025
Beautiful and excellent service! - Beautiful sail with a fun, engaging captain O and his second. We learned so much about sailing and about Lake Champlain. Perfectly safe, wonderful hospitality and a gorgeous, relaxing afternoon!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
R2164dmcorinneb
Jun 12, 2025
Sailing on the lake with the best - It was a beautiful day on Lake Champlain. Captain Bubba provided so many amazing stories about the local area and lake. Though the winds were light that day, it was still an amazing experience. Highly recommend this company.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Wanderer25636120116
Oct 8, 2024
Wild Rose Lake Experience - So enjoyable! We learned alot about Burlington and the lake. Enjoyed the stories of shipwrecks and battle. Thanks for a great experience Cory!
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Tinasj9106rm
Sep 23, 2024
Vacation in Paradise - Had so much fun on the Friendship with Captain Treasure and Auggie. It was a special night for us in Vermont! So Perfect and we Loved it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Road03711352232
Aug 26, 2024
Sunday on Lake Champlain - Superb excursion on Lake Champlain aboard the French ship, a bit of history and beautiful anecdotes. Wonderfully accompanied by our two crew members. Annie and Olivier from Montreal
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $80
up to 10 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).