Schooners Alliance & Serenity

The ship can not control the wind. May have been more enjoyable with some wind. Feel crew could have been more welcoming. We got there early. No boarding until 10 minutes before sail. Crew was on board but basically ignored those on dock waiting to board. Then when time to board put on their "happy" face telling everyone how happy they were to have them. We were there more than 20 minutes without one acknowledgement from any crew person. I do not know how much work would be on the ship with a good wind but with little breeze the crew mostly stood around. It would be nice if the Captain and/or some crew gave more information about the Chesepeake Bay, the history of Yorktown particularly as it pertains to the Revolutionary surrender and the French ships help keeping Cornwallis on land and not able to cross the river. I'm sure most passengers would have enjoyed hearing some of this and also may have opened up more questions about the area, its history and the Alliance.

My husband and I were celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary. We were very busy with five family graduations, two recitals, and a variety of other programs. We could not find time for and extended "get-away". My husband has always had an interest in sailing, but only one other opportunity to to participate. We often see the sailing ship as we visit Riverwalk in Yorktown, or cross the bridge to our home in the north end of Gloucester County. I thought this would be a good occasion to finally get onboard. The ship was comfortable, the boxed lunch delicious, and the crew was attentive, friendly, courteous, knowledgeable, and informative. The good weather made it perfect.

A "volunteer" was on board who helped the boatsmen, but he acted over enthusiastically and in a silly manner which was somewhat irritating...he argued with another boatsman about who knew their facts correctly, and this deterred from the experience that we expected. We also had to return a half hour early due to a localized storm cell, but that is understandable...

We enjoyed our 2 hour sail--weather was perfect, river was calm and skies clear. Fascinating to watch crew and some passengers hoist the sails and later lower them. Narration provided was clear, knowledgeable, and interesting. Only drawback--as someone with severe arthritis, I found the seating very uncomfortable especially as there was nothing to lean against and no cushioning. Would I go again? No but I would recommend this trip to others if they understand there is no "comfort."

For tickets that cost 35.00 each you'd think there would be enough seating for all passangers. I was extremely uncomfortable the entire trip.

Took visiting family over Memorial Day weekend. The weather was warm and perfect for a sail, crew pleasant, just wish we could have gone out further than the meandering that we did. Not much of a guided tour to those from out of the area, just an explanation of the monument, the reason for it and some info about VIMS. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves but I wouldn't repeat. Also, seating is haphazard and uncomfortable.

We brought a group of eleven long-time friends, who were in town for Memorial Day weekend, on the 11 a.m. cruise. It was just great. The crew was informative and willing to answer any questions. Many of us helped to hoist the sails! We bought lunch and thoroughly enjoyed the goodies from The Carrot Tree. It was a great way to spend a couple of hours on a Saturday morning and I would recommend it to any adult group. ( Seems a bit tame for today's kids....especialy those under 10.)

Cruise was loads of fun. The crew was very helpful and knowledgeable regarding the history and dynamics of the river. The ship was clean and easy to get around. The area is beautiful and made for a very relaxing 2 hours. Again, the crew was friendly and entertaining as well as being efficient and professional. I would participate in this activity again.

The weather was perfect and so was the crew. The ship was in excellent condition. If you want to spend a few relaxing hours sailing this is for you. A very well run operation that is sure to please anyone that enjoys sailing or any first time sailing adventurer. I highly recommend it.

We've sailed on the schooner Alliance many times. It's one of our favorite local getaways in good weather. Captain Greg always has something new to tell us about the area. We understand that some trips now have a marine scientist on board -- we will definitely come back for one of those!

The crew was friendly and made the trip even better. They answered any question we had and added a bunch of interesting facts about the area. Well worth the price and I can't wait to go again.

The cruise was relaxing. Seating is anywhere you can find it--no specific chairs/seats as this is a schooner. Not much to see while sailing at a very slow pace. Lunch was mediocre and we would not order it again. The pasta salad was mostly a green base and the brownie was very dry. I tossed mine away. The crew was personable and friendly. They talked to most everyone and made an effort to make us feel special and thanked us for joining them. They are competent and are learning the "ropes" so to speak in a controlled environment. All in all, we had a nice experience.

We has an easy time booking our sail. The sail it's self was first rate. Crew and Captain were knowledgeable about local history. Hands on if you want our just relax and listen to the stories.

We had a great evening sail with Greg and his crew! They were very personable and very knowledgable about not only sailing, but about the area as well! Had a great time celebrating our anniversary! Thank you!

I really enjoyed taking the sightseeing tour. It was a surprise for my boyfriend. He was elated. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and the people we met. We will be back indeed. The only thing i recommend is being able to bring your own food/drink on the boat. And if we could use credit cards on the boat as well. Overall it was very relaxing, and made me forget about anything strenuous I had on my mind! :)