Early Portsmouth, Nh: Goods Ferry Boats Explained

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a city with a rich maritime history. From the 19th-century ferry terminal that now houses the Old Ferry Landing restaurant to the more recent cruise ship and kayaking tours, Portsmouth's waterfront is a hub of activity. One of the more popular boat tour companies in the area is the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company, which offers a variety of cruises and private charters for visitors to explore the New Hampshire Seacoast.

Portsmouth Harbor Cruises

The cruise is narrated by knowledgeable captains who offer interesting insights into the area's history, birdlife, folklore, and shipbuilders. The tour also includes passing by famous houses, an old jail, and two lighthouses, with the possibility of spotting a harbor seal or two. It is a great way to learn about the heritage of the Piscataqua region in a relaxing and casual setting.

In addition to its regular cruises, Portsmouth Harbor Cruises also caters to special events. The M/V Heritage, a 49-passenger boat, can be chartered for small gatherings or large functions, making it a unique and memorable venue for weddings, rehearsal dinners, or company outings. The company's other vessel, the M/V Thomas Laighton, is a 300-capacity "floating function facility" that can be adapted to any type of special event, offering breathtaking views and tremendous service.

Boat Tours

There are several boat tours available in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, offering a range of experiences and insights into the area's history, nature, and culture. Here are some options to consider:

• Isles of Shoals Steamship Company: This company offers a variety of tours, including a cruise to Star Island, where you can step back in time and explore the island's history and natural beauty. The tour includes informative commentary and offers a relaxing way to spend a few hours with family or friends. It also provides a unique perspective on the Portsmouth area.
• Portsmouth Harbor Cruises: Aboard a 1963 60' Deltaville Deadrise, these cruises offer a casual and informative experience. The captains provide interesting insights on the birdlife, folklore, ship-building history, and tides of the Piscataqua region. You can also charter a private boat, the M/V Heritage, for small or large gatherings, making your event memorable and enjoyable.
• Seaglass Harbor Tours: This tour company offers boat tours and private tours, providing a personalised experience of Portsmouth Harbor. Captain Anne is known for her expertise and ability to make the tour a fun and adventurous experience for all ages.
• Gundalow Company: This tour offers an authentic experience of sailing on a gorgeous boat. You can even help raise the sail if you're feeling adventurous! The crew is knowledgeable about the history of the boat and the area, making it a great choice for those interested in learning more about Portsmouth's maritime past.
• The Charter Doctor: With over 20 years of experience, Captain Mark of The Charter Doctor provides excellent fishing charter services. He is energetic, professional, and passionate about fishing, ensuring that you have a fantastic day on the water. This option is perfect for those who want to combine a boat tour with a fishing experience.
• Portsmouth Kayak Adventures: If you're looking for a more active boat tour, Portsmouth Kayak Adventures offers eco-tours where you can explore the area by kayak. Their friendly and helpful staff will ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable experience, even if it's your first time kayaking.

These boat tour options provide a range of experiences, from casual cruises to fishing charters and kayak adventures. Each tour offers its unique perspective on the history, nature, and culture of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, allowing you to explore and discover the area in your own way.

Narrated Cruises

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a city steeped in history, with a rich maritime past. One of the best ways to explore this heritage is by taking a narrated cruise along its waterways. These cruises offer a unique perspective on the city and provide a wealth of information on the area's natural history, folklore, and ship-building traditions.

Portsmouth Harbor Cruises

Portsmouth Harbor Cruises offers a range of narrated cruises, including a popular sunset cruise. Their cruises are known for being casual, entertaining, and informative. The captains share fascinating insights on a variety of topics, from birdlife and folklore to ship-building history and the ever-changing tides of the Piscataqua River. The cruises are typically around 2 hours long and provide stunning views of the harbor and outlying islands.

Isles of Shoals Steamship Company

For those interested in exploring beyond the harbor, the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company offers narrated tours to the Isles of Shoals and Star Island. These cruises provide a glimpse into the area's geology and history, including the fascinating story of Star Island, which has hosted painting retreats and served as a retreat destination for many years. The cruise also includes a guided walking tour of the island, allowing passengers to step back in time and explore historic buildings and trails.

Seaglass Harbor Tours

Seaglass Harbor Tours offers a more intimate narrated cruise experience with Captain Anne. This cruise takes passengers on a journey through Little Harbor and the Piscataqua River, providing a blend of laughter and scenery. Captain Anne's knowledge of the area and engaging personality make for a memorable adventure, as demonstrated by a review highlighting how she let a young girl drive the boat in open water.

Gundalow Company

For a more hands-on narrated cruise experience, the Gundalow Company offers sails on a gorgeous vessel, where passengers can help raise the sail and learn about the history of the boat and the area. This cruise provides a unique opportunity to actively participate in the sailing experience while taking in the sights of Portsmouth Harbor.

Whether you're looking for a casual sunset cruise, a journey to the Isles of Shoals, or an intimate tour of the harbor, Portsmouth's narrated cruises offer something for everyone. These cruises are a perfect blend of entertainment and education, providing a deeper understanding of the city's maritime heritage and natural wonders.

Private Charters

• Portsmouth Harbor Cruises offers private charters aboard the M/V Heritage, which can accommodate up to 49 passengers. Their cruises are known for being casual, informative, and occasionally amusing. You can expect insightful commentary on the birdlife of the inland waterways, the folklore of the Isles of Shoals, and the shipbuilding history of Portsmouth Harbour.
• Isles of Shoals Steamship Company provides an excellent opportunity for private charters with their vessel, the M/V Thomas Laighton. This 300-capacity passenger boat is a "floating function facility", capable of hosting weddings, rehearsal dinners, company outings, and celebratory parties. The boat features breathtaking views and offers a unique setting for your special event.
• The Charter Doctor is highly recommended by customers who have fished with Captain Mark for over 20 years. He is described as one of the most knowledgeable captains in the area and is praised for his energetic, professional, and passionate attitude. If you're seeking a fishing charter, this could be an excellent choice.
• Seaglass Harbor Tours offers private tours with Captain Anne, who provides a memorable adventure for families. She even allowed a young girl to drive the boat in the open water, making it a fun and unique experience.

When considering a private charter, be sure to explore the various options available and choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether it's a special event or a fishing expedition, these private charters will create lasting memories of your time in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Sunset Cruises

The company also offers a cruise to Star Island, with a guided tour of the island included. The full-day cruise gives you around four and a half hours on the island, while the half-day cruise gives you just over an hour. You can pack a picnic lunch and sit on the porch of the historic hotel, admiring the views of the ocean. There are trails to walk, historic buildings to explore, and a gift shop and book shop. The cruise departs several times a week, so check the website for details.

Portsmouth Harbor Cruises also offers a sunset cruise, with a private charter option available on its 49-passenger boat, the M/V Heritage.

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