How do I get to Portland and where do I park?
Portland is only two hours north of Boston. The schooner leaves from the Maine State Pier in the heart of downtown Portland.
See our Directions

How do you get to Cow Island?
By private ferry. All Theme Weekend participants will motorsail out to Cow aboard a historic wooden schooner. Learn more about the boats at Portland Schooner Co.

Can I get off the island if I need to?
In an attempt to be as conservative as possible with our gas consumption, we do our best to make as few boat runs as possible. If you've forgotten something on the mainland or have any needs, let a guide know and they'll do their absolute best to help you out.

How big are your groups?
For Theme Weekends, groups will be no larger than 35 participants.

Where do we sleep?
Sleeping arrangements are dorm style in several large canvas house tents. Each one sits atop a large platform and looks seaward. Screen doors and windows allow the breeze to blow through. All tents offer cots, sleeping pads, sheets and a place to keep personal items.

Are there bathrooms and showers?
Yes. The Hagee Hopper sports two odorless and clean composting toilets. Composting toilet #3 is in the works, as well as solar showers for summer of 2008.

What's the food like?
Stupendous! Much of our food comes right from the student-run, organic garden on Cow Island. What doesn't come from Cow, we do our best to buy from local vendors and farms. Food on Cow Island is wholesome, delicious, beautiful, and made with love!
We'll offer snacks throughout the day to keep you moving.

Do you have options for special diets?
We always have lots of vegetarian options and some vegan options. Please make sure to let us know if you have any food allergies.

What if the weather's "bad"?
It's been said that "there's no such thing as bad weather, only innapropriate clothing". All participants will be sent a detailed gear list upon registration. This being New England, weather can change rather rapidly at times. Because of this, all Ripple programs run rain or shine. We would only cancel or postpone a program if high winds would present a danger on the water. There are plenty of dry, warm spaces on Cow in any weather.

Will I get cell phone reception?
Most places. We encourage all participants to remember that most people come to Cow to escape cell phones, computers, and the demands of the work world and personal life. Time on Cow is a time for reflection, play, and learning. Please be respectful of others if you decide to use your phone. Here is our Cell Phone Policy:
Ringers must be turned off upon arrival to Cow.
Cell phones must be used in private.

Can I smoke on or bring alcohol to Cow?
Rippleffect has been asking kids to choose adventure over drugs for years. We ask adults to do the same. Smoking on island is highly discouraged due to the fragile ecosystem and possibility of fire.

What if there's an emergency?
In case of an emergency on-island Rippleffect, in conjunction with the nearby town of Long Island, has developed a practiced evacuation plan. Maine Medical Center is the hospital we evacuate to.

How can I be reached if there is an emergency at home?
Please leave the Rippleffect office number (207) 791-7870 with your family before arriving. One of our staff will alert you.