(MT. DESERT ISLAND, MAINE) Crowds gathered on the banks of Somes Sound in the heart of Acadia National Park for a maritime show of multi-masted sailing vessels in honor of Acadia’s 100th anniversary. The Maine Windjammer Association organized the August 2nd parade of North America’s oldest fleet of commercial schooners, all escorted into the mouth of Somes Sound by dozens of yachts, sail boats and other vessels.
On a cool, breezy sunny afternoon, full-sail schooners gracefully glided through the water, making several passes around the Sound to applause from hundreds of enthusiastic spectators, who gathered hours earlier to park along the waterfront off Sargent Drive. 
The Lewis R. French was the grand old man of the parade. Built in 1871, the French is a National Historic Landmark and is the oldest Windjammer in America. 
Over its life the vessel has transported fish, coal, lime, bricks and today up to 21 paying passengers on vacation. The 95 foot Angelique was built in 1980 and can host 29 passengers . According to the Maine Windjammer Association , the Angelique is patterned after the 19th century sailing ships that fished off the coast of England. 
The Heritage was built three years later, carries 30 passengers, and has its home port in Rockland, Maine. The boat was built in the tradition of a 19th century coaster. The American Eagle has a unique and rich history. Built in 1930, the Eagle spent more than 50 years working the sea as a member of the famed Gloucester, Massachusetts fishing fleet. The boat is designated as a Windjammer National Historic Landmark. 
The Isaac H. Evans is steeped in tradition and history. Built in 1886, the Evans is observing her 128th anniversary. Her roots trace back to America’s fishing industry, and also has National Historic Landmark designation. Her deck is 65 feet in length and can carry 22 passengers.
The Ladona originally sailed in 1922 in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. It was built as a pleasure yacht for the Loring family. The schooner won the 1923 Bermuda’s cup in her class. Ladona served in World II assisting the US Navy as a submarine patrol. Today, Ladona accommodates up to 16 guests.
The schooner parade was just one of many events celebrating the centennial anniversary of Acadia National Park.
