Meet the owners of Schooner Stephen Taber
Jane and Noah Barnes
When Noah Barnes was just seven years old, his parents bought the 1871-built Schooner STEPHEN TABER. From that moment on, Noah’s summers were spent at sea—hauling lines, scrubbing decks, and soaking up the rhythms of life aboard a windjammer. What began as a family adventure eventually charted the course of his life.
After college, Noah left the coast of Maine behind and headed to New York City to pursue a career in public relations. But even in the hustle of Manhattan, the pull of the sea remained strong. On weekends, Noah worked as captain aboard the Schooner ADIRONDACK giving sailing tours of New York Harbor. While his weekdays were spent in offices and meetings, it was those hours out on the water that left him feeling the most alive. So in 2004 when his parents retired, he returned to Maine and took over the STEPHEN TABER, bringing new energy and a fresh vision to the storied schooner.
With Noah came his then fiancé (now wife) Jane Barrett Barnes. Jane says, “I was a city girl. But as soon as I stepped aboard, I understood the allure. And after living in New York City studio apartments, I felt right at home in Cabin 9.” Jane is the warm voice behind the scenes–managing bookings, guest communications, and much of the behind-the-scenes planning that make each voyage smooth and memorable. Additionally with a successful two-decade career in the wine industry in New York, Jane brings a unique element of hospitality to the sailing experience. Her deep knowledge and passion for wine now add a special flavor to life on board. Each dinner on the TABER features a different red and white wine picked by Jane. And with Noah’s passion for both artisan cheeses, which he hand-picks for each trip’s hors d’oeuvres spread, and music-he often plays guitar or harmonica in the evenings, the two have added a unique element of hospitality to the sailing experience.
Back in 2013 the Barneses also took on another project when they purchased the Windjammer Schooner LADONA (then named NATHANIAL BOWDITCH) with their partner (and current LADONA captain) J.R. Braugh. Together they spent two years rebuilding the 1922 vessel and now the three of them co-own the vessel which is another member of the Maine Windjammer Association.
For the Barneses, life aboard isn’t a job—it’s a calling. It’s about craftsmanship, community, and finding joy in simplicity. It also continues to be a family tradition as their son Oscar has also spent many summers on board as a crew member.
And for their guests, a voyage on the STEPHEN TABER becomes something deeper than just a vacation. It becomes a return to something essential. Just like it was for Noah.
Category: Meet captains and crew
