Guest Acknowledgment & Code of Conduct

Here at the Schooner American Eagle, the safety of our passengers and guests is our number one priority. The following acknowledgment outlines our expectations for those stepping aboard, whether it be a trip, a day sail, a deck tour, et cetrea. These expectations will help ensure everyones well being, as well as ours, during your time with us. Together, we will create a safe environment where memories will last a lifetime.

By holding a ticket, visiting, or sailing aboard the Schooner American Eagle, I acknowledge and agree to the following:

1. Acknowledgment of Risk

I understand that sailing aboard a traditional sailing vessel on a multi-day trip involves inherent risks, including but not limited to changing weather and sea conditions, moving rigging and equipment, small spaces, uneven or wet surfaces, and additional steps to access medical care. I voluntarily assume all such risks, whether foreseen or unforeseen.

2. Fitness for a Multi-Day Trip

I affirm that I am physically and mentally fit to participate in a multi-day sailing voyage. I have disclosed any relevant medical conditions, medications, or limitations before making my deposit while booking on this trip.

3. Safety and Advocacy

I understand that my personal safety, in whole or in part, is my own responsibility to make crew and/or office personnel aware of any pertinent dietary, mobility, or specific information that may hinder my own safety or the safety of the vessel before voyage departure. I will make a staff member aware and advocate for myself if I need further assistance during the entirety of the voyage.

4. Guest Conduct and Behavior Standards

I agree to conduct myself in a safe, respectful, cooperative, and responsible manner during the voyage. This includes, but is not limited to:

Promptly follow all instructions given by the captain and crew.
Respecting crew members, fellow guests, and the vessel.
Maintaining appropriate and respectful behavior in close-quarters living during the trip.
Refraining from aggressive, abusive, harassing, discriminatory, or disruptive behavior at all times towards crew members, guests, or visitors.
Avoiding actions that may compromise safety, morale, or vessel operations.
Complying with all safety briefings and vessel rules.

I understand that cooperation and kind conduct are essential to the safety and success of a multi-day sailing voyage.

5. Alcohol and Substances

I acknowledge that the Schooner American Eagle operates under United States Coast Guard and Federal regulations, and I agree to the following:

All federally illegal drugs and controlled substances are strictly prohibited aboard the vessel.
Possession, use, distribution, or impairment by illegal drugs or controlled substances will not be tolerated.
Alcohol consumption must be moderate, lawful, and must never interfere with safety, judgment, or crew instructions.
The captain reserves the right to restrict or prohibit alcohol consumption at any time.
Any guest who appears impaired or compromises safety due to alcohol or substance use may be subject to immediate corrective action.

I understand that violations of alcohol or substance policies may result in removal from activities, confinement to quarters when appropriate, or termination of participation in the voyage.

6. Release and Waiver of Liability

I hereby release, waive, and discharge the owner, operator, captain, and employees of the Schooner American Eagle from any claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of or related to my own participation and conduct as a guest aboard, except where prohibited by law.

7. Consequences of Failure to Meet Standards

I acknowledge that failure or refusal to comply may result in immediate action at the discretion of the captain. I further understand and agree that any individual unable or unwilling to meet these standards will not be permitted to sail on future voyages aboard the Schooner American Eagle, at the sole discretion of vessel management.

8. Limitation on Claims

You must give written notice of any claim for damages within six months of the last day of the trip and commence any action on it in court in Maine within two years of that date, or it will be time-barred notwithstanding any law of any state or country to the contrary.

9. Arbitration

Should any dispute arise out of this acknowledgement or my presence aboard the vessel, it shall be referred to binding arbitration to be conducted in accordance with the Rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitration, Inc.

10. Governing Law

This acknowledgment shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with applicable federal maritime law and the laws of the State of Maine.

11. Acknowledgment

I have read this document in its entirety and understand its contents by holding a ticket, visiting, or sailing aboard the Schooner American Eagle.