isle of shoals tour

• How to Visit the Isles of Shoals

Last year began  a new era for Star Island and the Isles of Shoals. The regular daily summer ferry no longer runs from Portsmouth to Star Island. Visitors to the Oceanic Hotel will have their own ferry as will students at the Shoals Marine Lab on Appledore. This guide is for them and for everyone who wants to see or visit the rocky historic Isles of Shoals. Rye Harbor has become the new center of activity.

HOW TO SEE & VISIT THE SHOALS Half are in NH, half in Maine Note: SeacoastNH.com is not responsible for changes to schedules or to this information. Please check with your transportation source in advance of travel. If you have additional information on tours and travel to the Shoals, please email us. SEE: Our Shoals Maps VISIT: Isles of Shoals history section

ISLES OF SHOALS SIGHTSEEING (stay on boat, view all islands) Isles of Shoals Steamship Company Historic Isles of Shoals, Lighthouses and Portsmouth Harbor Tour departing twice daily aboard the steamship style M/V Thomas Laighton from Portsmouth. Tour features up close views and famous narration of the nine Isles of Shoals and sights of Portsmouth Harbor including three lighthouses, five forts and the Olde Port Waterfront. Beverages and snacks available. Onboard activities and portable touch tank provided by Blue Ocean Society.Special events, party ships, dinner cruises, weddings, receptions and educational fieldtrips are also offered.

Portsmouth Harbor Cruises Regular summer sightseeing tours 2.5 hours starting at noon Tues – Thurs from dock on Ceres Street in Portsmouth

Island Cruises Daily narrated tours around the Isles of Shoals aboard a real lobster boat leaving Rye Harbor

Granite State Whale Watch Wednesday evening Isles cruise with fireworks over Hampton Beach, July and August at 7pm from Rye Harbor

Island Cruises VISITNG STAR ISLAND & the Oceanic Hotel (click here)

VISTING APPLEDORE ISLAND & the Shoals Marine Lab (click here)

VISITING THE OTHER ISLANDS at the Shoals (click here) Includes Smuttynose, White, Malaga, Seavey, Cedar, Duck & Luncing.

Continue to VISIT INDIVIDUAL ISLAND

VISITING STAR ISLAND READ: Star Island Corp 2005 Press Release Privately owned by the Star Island Corporation offering summer conferences at the Oceanic Hotel for over 100 years. For conference catalog and island info visit the official web site

Beginning in 2005, after 150 years of service, there will no longer be a regular summer ferry from Portsmouth. This guide is for those wishing to go onto Star Island. For those wishing to tour the entire Isles of Shoals by sightseeing boat, click here.

Star Island Day Trips The Thomas Laighton no longer offers its daily Star Island Stopover. Here are alternative ways to get onto Star Island. If you have you own boat, scroll down.

Sail Amaryllis Offers sunset sailing cruise aboard Amaryllis, a 45 ft catamaran with dinner at the Oceanic Hotel on Star Island. Leaves Portsmouth Harbor at 4:30PM. Call 603-205-0630.

Charter trips to Star with advance call, when available. Goes out twice daily from Rye Harbor. Call for planned DAILY stop over trips to Star Island.

Northeast Charter Offers a Star Island dinner cruise starting at 5 pm from Portsmouth Harbor with trip to Star and dinner at the Oceanic Hotel.

Star Conference Now Take Captain's Lady From StarIsland.org For the 2005 season, conferees will be traveling to and from Star aboard the 149 passenger " Captain’s Lady ." The "Captain’s Lady" has been used primarily for off-shore whale watches. She is well suited for the weather and sea conditions around the Shoals and should be able to make the trip in less than an hour. Use of a vessel this size will mean reverting to the tradition of many years ago when two round trips were necessary to bring the conferences to the island. For many long-time Shoalers, this will be a taste of nostalgia but for others, this will become a "new" tradition. Captain’s Fishing Charters, owner of the "Captain’s Lady," is based in Newburyport, Massachusetts, but will operate from the dock adjacent to where the Thomas Laighton is berthed. Conferees will park in the same lot we have used for the last several years. There are a few logistical issues yet to be worked out and we will send detailed information to conference leaders well in time for planning your summer trip to the island.

The change in transportation to and from Star Island came about this fall when the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company (ISSCo.) notified us they would be unable to continue their contract with us, in part because of the complications presented by Homeland Security. Since then, we have been in contact with a number of boat companies along the New Hampshire coast and as far south as Boston. After meeting with five boat owners, we selected Captain’s Fishing Charters to provide conference transportation services for next year.

We are confident that the change will have very little impact on most conferences and will do our best to make the transition to a new ferry service as easy as possible for everyone. A long term agreement with Captain’s Fishing Charters is being discussed this winter and by the summer, we will be able to apprise you of the nature of ferry services for the next several years.

Star Island's Pamela J. Thayer workboat as well as the SML's Kingsbury workboat will be working cooperatively to transport each other's staff and to transport the Smuttynose Stewards

For Private Boats & Lunch & Dinner Guests

From StarIsland.org If you have a private boat, you are welcome to visit the island for a meal, or just to walk around. Please note than the island’s dock is very busy, and only dinghies are permitted to tie up. Meals are served family style at 12:30 and 6:30, and include beverages and dessert. There is no lunch on Saturdays. You may call ahead for reservations or inquire at the front desk upon arrival. Continue to VISIT INDIVIDUAL ISLAND

VISITING APPLEDORE

UPATE: The MARINE LAB has created this updated web page for 2005 Getting to Shoals Marine Lab Boat Schedule Owned by the Star Island Corporation and with some private homes, largely used by the Shoals Marine Lab , a cooperative summer educational program run by Cornell and the University of New Hampshire. For more info visit the official web site. See latest updates on GETTING TO APPLEDORE Shoals Marine Lab Students SML update SML is going to be transporting all participants EXCEPT Celia's Garden Tour passengers aboard SML vessels to and from the SML dock in Portsmouth.

Star Conferees & UNH Docents to Appledore SML Update SML will continue to host weekly Star Island Conference day trippers from Star (on Tuesdays now, instead of on Mondays), and we will continue to host weekly UNH/Docent Day trippers aboard the R/V CHALLENGER (usually on Saturdays and Sundays).

See Celia’s Garden This year Celia’s Tour will be run from a boat out of Seabrook, NH run by the Eastmans, More details and schedules to follow. Continue to VISIT INDIVIDUAL ISLAND

Visiting Smuttynose & Malaga There is no formal tour of Smuttynose which is a privately owned island. Visitors with their own boats are welcomed to tour responsibly following the rules posted in the harbor. (No dogs, fires, alcohol, camping, removing plants or other items). There are no restrooms or public facilities of any sort. There is a nice walking tour in season and stewards on island to offer information. Cove is for small boats only, rowboats are best, Please don’t block the cove or use Smuttynose moorings.

Visiting Cedar and Lunging Sorry, private islands. No public stopovers. These islands are best seen from sightseeing tours or private boats.

Visiting White& Seaveys Islands Sorry, no regular tours. The lighthouse is best seen from sightseeing tours. Landing is difficult for private boats and not advised. Currently the State of NH is building a docking facility in order to begin repair of the widening cracks in the 19 th century brick lighthouse.

Visiting Duck Bird sanctuary run by Audubon Society. No tours. Seals and birds can be seen at a safe distance by private boats and on sightseeing tours.

FROM STAR ISLAND CORPORATION 2005 Season Update

After interviewing many potential ferry services, Star Island has signed on with Captain’s Fishing Charters of Newburyport, Massachusetts to bring conferees to Star Island. As part of our commitment to continue Star Island’s close relationship with the Seacoast Community, the Captain’s Lady will depart from Burge Dock on Market Street in Portsmouth.

Conferees will no longer come aboard the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company’s M/V Thomas Laighton due in part because of complications presented by Homeland Security. The Star Island Corporation, which owns both Star and Appledore Islands, was founded in 1916. The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company has been ferrying our passengers and freight for about 40 of those years and we are very sorry to see the historical relationship between us end. We respect Robin Whitaker’s commitment to continuing education about the Isles of Shoals and wish her all the best.

We welcome visitors to Star Island between mid-June and mid-September aboard their own vessels. Other opportunities for visiting Star Island are aboard the Prince of Whales which operates from Newburyport, or aboard the Uncle Oscar which departs from Rye.

Day visitors can visit the island’s snack bar, book store, lobby store, or gift shop or tour the Oceanic Hotel lobby, Rutledge Marine Lab, or Vaughn Cottage. You are also welcome to join us for a hearty and satisfying meal served home-style in the Oceanic Hotel dining room. Meals are served at 12:30 and 6:30, are all you can eat, and include beverages and dessert. Please note that the island's dock is very busy, and only dinghies are permitted to tie up.

In years past Star Island’s Grand Hotel Era Oceanic House, along with the hotel on neighboring Appledore Island, was frequented by Childe Hassam, Celia Thaxter, Nathaniel

Hawthorne, Ralph Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and other notables of the time. Nathaniel Hawthorne’s recently published diaries include a two-week visit to the Isles of Shoals and Star Island. Star Island remains a destination for writers, artists, philosophers, and musicians as well as people from all walks of life, including contemporary notables who enjoy the benefits of being just one of the "Shoalers".

One of Star Island’s most promi­nent features is the chapel, a simple stone meetinghouse built in 1800 on the highest point of land. Vaughn Cottage, another site of interest, is open from 1 to 3 p.m. and features artifacts and historic manuscripts including writings from the collection of Celia Thaxter. The Rutledge Marine Lab is open every day for hands–on learning about native marine life.

The first summer conferences were held on Star Island in 1897 under the auspices of the Isles of Shoals Association. In addition to several family conferences (Life on a Star 1 and 2 and All Star 1 and 2), Arts, and Natural History, we host the Isles of Shoals Historical and Research Association, International Affairs, the Institute on Religion in an Age of Science, Dover Yoga Studio and Gallery, New Hampshire Photographic Society, and Star Hampshire Traditional Music and Dance. Star Women and Midweek Retreat are two other early September conferences and this year, we have added a Writer’s Conference. For more detailed conference information as well as how to register, please call the office at (603) 430-6272 and we will send you our Blue Book.

As an island environment ten miles out to sea, Star Island must provide its own utilities including electricity, water, waste treatment, and garbage disposal. We are currently installing a reverse osmosis machine to allow us to convert salt water to drinking water. We handle the largest amount of compost in the State of New Hampshire. We grow our own flowers in a perennial garden and display them throughout the hotel and dining hall. Maintaining and preserving our historic buildings is at the forefront of our operation.

Star Island Corporation is a membership organization comprised of about 400 members and governed by a board of directors under the direction of Irene Bush, president. Paul Jennings is Executive Director of Star Island.

There are nine full-time staff members who work in the Portsmouth office and on Star Island and four seasonal staff members who work on island. In addition, every job on the island including docking boats and handling freight; cooking and serving food; maintaining the grounds, buildings, power plant, and waste water treatment facility; and providing all hospitality services is staffed by a Pelican, the affectionate term for the nearly 100 young people who work here and often return year after year to what Yankee Magazine once called "one of the top ten summer jobs in New England".

For more information, please contact: Deborah Lielasus Tombleson Director of Development & Community Relations Star Island Corporation

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Welcome to Granite State Whale Watch and Island Cruises!

Granite State Whale Watch and Island Cruises provides Isles of Shoals Tours, Star Island Ferry Service, Star Island Walkabouts & Whale Watches from scenic Rye Harbor, NH.  Rye Harbor is the closest mainland port to the Isles of Shoals.

For more information about our whale watches also departing from Rye Harbor, visit Granite State Whale Watch !

To learn more about Star Island, visit www.starisland.org .

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Isles of Shoals Steamship Company

Romance Wedding Package includes the following: - Scenic 4 hour private cruise aboard the M/V Thomas Laighton - Your choice of savory Romance Wedding Menu Option - Custom made three-tier wedding cake with your choice of exquisite flavors and fillings - Professional disc jockey service with an extensive music library - Tabletop bud vases containing the freshest seasonal flowers and greenery coordinated to your color scheme - Crisp white table linens and napkins - Celebratory Champagne Toast - Complimentary Nautical Life Ring “Guestbook” - Convenient dockside parking for you and your guests - Two full service pay as you go bars (open bar options available) - Professional Vessel and Catering staff - Personal Cruise Director to organize all details of your wedding including the wedding rehearsal

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ISLES OF SHOALS FIREWORKS & THE ISLANDS

All nine islands have a distinct history and character.  Below is some information about several of the islands.  On our expertly narrated island tour, we will tell you all about each of these nine islands in depth!

Join us for a relaxing sunset cruise to the beautiful Isles of Shoals.  We offer a complete narrated tour of all nine islands focusing on both current day activities and history of the area.  Learn about buried treasure, Shoals Marine Lab, the ghost of Smuttynose and White Island Lighthouse.  View the abundant wildlife that make their home on the islands. The Island tour is followed by a leisurely cruise to Hampton Beach for a viewing of the spectacular fireworks display.  You’ll have the best view on the beach!

2024 Islands and Fireworks Trip

July 4th 7:00 pm, duck island.

Duck Island is the northernmost of the nine island group.  Duck is simply an uninhabited rock pile.  In the 1950’s and 60’s Duck was used as a bombing target practice range.  Bombers stationed at nearby Pease Air Force Base would fly over the island and drop small smoke bombs.  The purpose of the bombings was to check the bomb release mechanisms of the planes and also for the aircrew to check the accuracy of their bomb sights.  The bombing was discontinued some 20 years ago, and Duck Island is making an excellent recovery as a wildlife nesting area.

Appledore Island

Appledore Island is the largest of the nine, approximately 95 acres in area.  Ninety five percent of the island is owned by the Star Island corporation, which in turn leases it to the Shoals Marine Laboratory.  Shoals Lab is a highly regarded research and educational institute operated jointly by the University of New Hampshire and Cornell University.  At the turn of the 20th century  Appledore was home to one of the largest resorts in New England.  Well known 19th century literary figure Celia Thaxter, daughter of the hotel’s owner entertained guests on the island, and her presence in turn attracted many other famous people of the time.

Smuttynose Island

Smuttynose has much lore and legend of the islands associated with it, including a ghost story, a murder story, and a buried treasure story.  The ghost story and the buried treasure story both have to do with Blackbeard the pirate, who was rumored to have visited the islands in his travels.  The murder story is about Louis Wagner, who rowed his dory ten miles out to the islands from Portsmouth.  His subsequent failed robbery and murder of two women are still  a topic of conversation today, both locally, and nationally in books and movies.

Cedar Island

Cedar Island is privately owned by a family of fisherman who spend the summer months catching lobsters.  Cedar is also distinct in that it is the southernmost island in the state of Maine.

Star Island

Star is the second largest of the nine, approximately 46 acres in area.  It is, however, the busiest island.  Star is home to the Star Island Conference Center which offers non-denominational summer religious conferences.  These conferences are quite popular and are usually filled from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Lunging Island

Lunging was the first island to be settled at the Isles of Shoals.  In 1614 the London Trading Company moved a trading post to Lunging from their colony in Jamestown, Virginia.  This trading post served as a base of operations for the shipment of dried fish to Europe.  Today Lunging is owned by a Massachusetts family who spend the summer on the island.

White Island

White is home to one of the most picturesque lighthouses on the New England coast.  This light was completed in 1865 and stands an elevation of 82 feet above sea level.  Until 1986, this lighthouse was manned by several coast guard lighthouse keepers.  However, in 1986 the lighthouse was completely automated and the keepers were no longer needed.  The light, however, after years of abuse by the New England winters, with waves sometimes crashing clear over it, has begun to crack at the base.

1870 Ocean Blvd (Rte 1A) Rye, NH 03870 (800) 964-5545 (603) 964-5545 [email protected]

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Or maybe you'd like to get married on one of these ships? Sorry, I just can't help it. I just love the romanticism of getting married on a boat by a ship's captain!

Maybe that's because I was my sister's maid of honor when she got married aboard the M/V Thomas Laighton in Portsmouth...that could have something to do with it. :-)

From May through October, the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company , Tugboat Alley Too , and Portsmouth Harbor Cruises carry passengers up and down the wide, deep Piscataqua River out to the Isles of Shoals or to explore the harbor and inland waterways of coastal New Hampshire.

A Portsmouth NH boat tour is a fabulous way to see the sights and learn more about the region while enjoying the sheer relaxation and beauty of a day on the ocean. The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company This cruise line boasts the largest ship of all the Portsmouth NH boat tour companies - the Thomas Laighton.

The Thomas Laighton is a 90-foot vessel with three decks- two fully heated and enclosed cabins and an open sundeck with seating.

The boat holds between 120-150 guests for a seated dinner and 275 guests for a cocktail style cruise. Sightseeing cruises hold up to 300 passengers.

Cruises include nine miles out to the islands with opportunities to disembark, Portsmouth Harbor, and a wide variety of concert cruises, weddings and other charters. Tug Alley Too Up to six people can hop aboard the Tug Alley Too , originally built for a lobster pound in Friendship, Maine.

Four historic forts, the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse at the US Coast Guard station and Whaleback Lighthouse are just some of the sights to see along this Portsmouth NH boat tour route.

If you are interested in how and what tugboats do, your Captain and deck hand/tour guide will provide you with as much or as little historical and anecdotal information as you desire.

The Tug Alley Too is docked right next to the larger Moran tugboats , which routinely ply the waters of Portsmouth Harbor, escorting large oceangoing vessels in and out of the fast-flowing Piscataqua river.

If you have children (or adults) who love tugboats, this is the tour for you! Portsmouth Harbor Cruises This cruise line offers tours out to the Isles of Shoals, lighthouse tours, fall foliage cruises along the inland rivers, sunset and wine tasting cruises, and private charters.

All cruises are aboard the 49 passenger ship, the Heritage .

Portsmouth Harbor Cruises narrated boat tours are casual, sometimes amusing, and always informative.

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Why You Need to Take an Isles of Shoals Tour

Tour the Isles of Shoals

The Isles comprise nine islands, the most well known being Appledore, Smuttynose, and Star islands (craft beer drinkers are more than likely familiar with Smuttynose Brewing Company). The Isles of Shoals history is steeped in fishing culture, as many of the islands’ inhabitants have been fishermen. American history icon John Smith first named the islands in 1614, before the area was settled.

Today, a number of tours are offered from nearby Portsmouth Harbor, exploring the history and wildlife of these beautiful islands. The islands are still dotted with historic structures, docks, lighthouses, and Star Island’s Oceanic Hotel. 

Isles of Shoals Steamship Company

Offering both Portsmouth Harbor cruises and trips to the Isles of Shoals, Isles of Shoals Steamship Company is a great choice for exploring the islands.

For a full experience of Star Island, try the Extended Star Island Walking Tour . Walk Star Island with a knowledgeable guide and learn all about its fascinating history that includes John Smith, Captain Edward “Blackbeard” Teach, the Oceanic Hotel, and more.

If you’d rather stay on the boat and learn about both the Isles and Portsmouth Harbour, sign up for the Isles of Shoals & Portsmouth Harbor Tour. For more information on all the great cruises offered by Isles of Shoals Steamship Company, visit their website .

Portsmouth Harbor Cruises

Portsmouth Harbor Cruises offers several different trips, including one to the islands. Their Isles of Shoals tour takes passengers by Appledore, Smuttynose, Star, Lunging, and White islands. According to the company’s website, the tour lasts about 2.5 hours, and passengers are encouraged to bring their binoculars for birdwatching!

If you want to enjoy a romantic evening on the harbor, try Portsmouth Harbour Cruises’ Wine Cruise ! The cruise takes place at sunset and features a variety of wine, snacks but a beautiful tour of the harbor.

Cruise maps, times, and tickets can be on the Portsmouth Harbor Cruises website .

Enjoy Picturesque New England Coastline from the Comfort of Your Room

Located just north of Portsmouth in York, ME, Dockside Guests Quarters & Restaurant offers their guests an unforgettable stay in one Maine’s most scenic towns. Surrounded by the beauty of York Harbour and New England coast, you would be hard-pressed to find accommodations as scenic and inviting as those at Dockside Guest Quarters. Our rooms feature great amenities, like private baths and decks, views of the water, fireplaces, and more. Plus, you’ll be only minutes from area’s best attractions and towns, like York Beach, Portsmouth Square , the Town of Ogunquit, and more. S tart planning your Maine vacation today.

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Make the most of your Maine getaway! Embrace the beautiful southern coast at our waterfront inn and enjoy exclusive dining offers and curated experiences.

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Harbor Cruise

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On our fully narrated Harbor Cruise, we’ll take you through nearly 400 years of local and American history. From the settlement of the region in 1623, to Portsmouth Harbor’s modern day role in the economy and defense of our country.

This trip offers some wonderful photo opportunities of lighthouses, mansions, submarines and forts, so bring a camera!

Evening, Sunset and Lights cruises are the same route.

The Harbor Cruise is approximately 1.25 hours.

Reservations strongly suggested. Children 2 and under ride free (but still require a reservation). Schedule and prices subject to change.

Experience the Portsmouth Harbor With Us!

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FAQ- General Information

Can you tell me about the m/v thomas laighton.

The M/V Thomas Laighton is a 90-foot vessel with three decks- two fully heated and enclosed cabins and an open Sundeck with seating. The boat holds a maximum of 125 guests for a seated dinner and 275 guests for a cocktail style cruise. Sightseeing cruises will hold up to 300 passengers. The vessel features a three fully stocked cash bars and beautiful views of the ocean.

Do you have indoor decks?

Yes we do. The M/V Thomas Laighton has two fully enclosed indoor heated decks. We also have three outdoor areas on our decks as well.

Do you offer food aboard the ship?

We have a galley bar that includes hot dogs, candy, chips, drinks and alcoholic drinks for our 21 and over guests. No alcohol or glass products are allowed on board due to Coast Guard Regulations .

May I bring a lunch or dinner onboard with me?

Passengers are permitted to bring individual picnic lunches on board with them. COOLERS ARE NOT PERMITTED. Our galley is stocked with all sorts of snacks and beverages.

Do you have bathrooms aboard the ship?

Of course we do! We have four bathrooms aboard our vessel.

Is there parking available?

Yes we have onsite convenient parking for $5.00. You may also use the Portsmouth parking garage for $1 cents an hour.

May I get off at any of the islands?

Each island is privately owned. You may, however, get off on Star Island either by the M/V Thomas Laighton on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Saturday throughout the summer by reserving your tickets on one of our Star Island Day Visit or Walking Tours. Appledore Island is also accessible but only for taking classes and to visit Celia Thaxter's Garden. Star Island Corporation : 603-430-6272 or visit their website -  www.starisland.org . Appledore Island : 603-964-9011 or visit their website –  www.sml.cornell.edu  . Celia Thaxter's Garden ( Cornell University ): 607-225-3717 or visit their website –  www.sml.cornell.edu .

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes the boat is handicap accessible, please let us know if you will need special assistance with wheelchairs or canes when you arrive.  Persons who utilize wheelchairs will not have access to all 3 decks and will be limited to one deck.

May we bring our dog aboard?

As much as we love all animals unfortunately no dogs or animals are allowed on board.

Will I get seasick onboard?

The M/V Thomas Laighton is a very stable ship, since we do travel out into the open ocean, waves do occur. The Captain and crew do their best to keep the boat on the calmest path. Seasickness is rare on the M/V Thomas Laighton, and those that tend to become sick on seafaring vessels often find their ride on our vessel to be a comfortable one.

May I bring my fishing equipment on board and fish?

We cannot allow fishing equipment on board for the safety and respect of our other patrons.

If it is bad weather, will the cruise be cancelled?

All cruises are rain or shine, and cancellation is up to the discretion of the Captain. Cancellation is only considered if we feel that the conditions pose a danger to our passengers. Lightning does not pose a danger to passengers, and the ship is perfectly safe under those conditions.

Is the vessel Coast Guard certified?

Yes, the M/V Thomas Laighton is Coast Guard certified and maintained regularly to follow Coast Guard safety regulations.

What kind of music is played on board during your cruises?

Our sightseeing cruises feature an incredible full narration through the Isles of Shoals. Evening dinner cruises feature light background music as your glide through the Portsmouth Harbor. Our party ships feature a full range of popular dance tunes- some party ships have a live band onboard while others have a DJ.

May I purchase gift certificate?

Yes you may! Gift certificates are available in any denomination and may be purchased over the phone by calling 603-431-5500. Gift certificates never expire.

Are gratuities included?

Crew gratuity is not included in your package, however, it is greatly appreciated by the crew if you deem appropriate. Gratuities can be left with the Captain or the Cruise Director. Open bar subject to 18% gratuity.

Will my cell phone work on the cruise?

Yes, your cell phone will work on the water. For the comfort and convenience of other guests, we ask that cell phone conversations be held on the outside decks.

Can we smoke onboard?

Smoking is allowed on the boat as long as you smoke on the outside decks. There is no smoking in the enclosed areas. Please be respectful and put your remaining cigarettes in our smoking trays located on our outdoor decks.

What should we wear onboard the ship?

Be sure to dress in layers. Remember that it is 10 to 15 degrees cooler on the water than it is on land. Also be aware that the sun is bright. Don't forget your sun block!

Do you have a gift shop?

We do not have a gift shop but we sell hats and sweatshirts on board.

Do I need to make advance reservations?

Reservations for daytime sightseeing cruises are required with full payment in advance. Reservations for party ships are required, as well as pre-payment in full.

Is it possible to hold tickets with a credit card, and then pay for them in cash when I come?

All cruise tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, and thus, must be paid for in full at time of purchase. Sightseeing Cruises do not require pre-payment; you may pay with cash, check, or credit card at time of arrival.

How will I receive my tickets?

The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company does not mail tickets, however, when you order your tickets in advance, they will be emailed to you through our brand new ticketing program!  This ticket will serve as your boarding pass and will eliminate waiting in line to purchase tickets! If you do not receive the confirmation message within a few minutes of purchase, please check your Spam folder just in case the confirmation email got delivered there instead of your inbox. If so, select the confirmation message and click Not Spam, which will allow future messages to get through.

What kind of payments do you accept?

Payment is accepted via MasterCard, Visa, check or cash in person. Prepaid reservations can be made by phone or over the Internet at www.islesofshoals.com

What is your refund policy?

All cruises depart rain or shine from the decision of the Captain, and tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company is not responsible for passengers who miss the boat due to Mother Nature, transportation difficulties, personal sickness, or other personal emergency.

Are there group and senior citizen discounts available?

Senior citizens (60+ yrs) and members of the U.S. Military receive $3 off each adult ticket. Please inform the ticket office attendant when purchasing tickets (does not include Special Event cruises).

How many islands are there?

There are nine Isles of Shoals: Duck, Appledore, Malaga, Smuttynose, Cedar, Star, Lunging, White and Seavey. Some people say there are actually eight Isles because White Island and Seavey Island are joined by a small land bridge which you can only see at low tide. At high tide the bridge is obscured making the two islands one and the same.

What kind of wildlife might we see?

Each journey is unique. In the past we have seen Basking Sharks, Sun Fish (Mola Mola), breaching Tuna and Harbor Seals. Birds include a variety of Gulls, Cormorants, Shearwaters and other migratory and pelagic species.

May we rent the fantail deck?

The fantail deck is a covered open-air deck which offers a private hide-away for a small gathering of approximately 25 guests. The fantail deck rental includes deck chairs and side tables. For pricing information please call our office at (603) 431-5500

How To Visit The Isles of Shoals, New Hampshire's Historic Islands

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Stories of the Isles of Shoals have long swept the beaches of the East Coast. This archipelago lies off the coasts of Maine and New Hampshire. Largely isolated, they have produced many tales of adventure, horror, and beauty.

Located just six miles from the main shore , the islands can now be viewed by passing boats or even toured. They feature gorgeous architecture and a picturesque coastline.

Visitors hoping to see some of the East Coast's haunting history should definitely explore this remote destination.

The Isles of Shoals were initially used by local Native American tribes as fishing camps in the Spring and Summer months. Their rocky shores provided easy access to the bountiful Gulf of Maine and allowed communities to thrive for extensive periods of time.

The isles were eventually documented by Captain John Smith in 1614 . Following their announcement to the Western world, they were soon transformed into fishing and naval hubs. It is rumored that islands even became pirate hide-outs, with the buried treasure being used to fund building projects.

During the Revolutionary War, many fled to escape a potential British Invasion. The islands would remain largely unoccupied until 1843 when Thomas Laighton left his job as a lighthouse keeper to open two hotels on the archipelago. These hotels achieved so much success that they inspired the creation of the Oceanic Hotel by John Poor in 1873 . Both of Laighton's hotels would eventually be closed. Fortunately, the Oceanic Hotel continues to see the popularity and remains open to visitors to this day.

The islands sit on the oceanic border between Maine and New Hampshire . Maine controls the five northeastern islands (including Appledore Island, Smuttynose Island, Malaga Island, Duck Island, and Cedar Island). New Hampshire, on the other hand, possesses the four southwestern islands (including Star Island, White Island, Seavey Island, and Lunging Island).

Related: The 10 Best East Coast Resort Towns In America (& What To See First When You Get There)

Star Island is currently the most accessible of the isles. Visitors can take boat cruises to the island in the summer and explore its historic stone cottages and pristine beaches.

It is also the setting of the Oceanic Hotel . The wooden building is over 100 years old and has hosted many great artists, including Childe Hassam and Nathaniel Hawthorne. It features antique rocking chairs on a massive porch overlooking the isles.

It is rumored that, like many of New England's fascinating graveyards , the island's cemetery is haunted. Visitors are welcome to pay their respects and see if the coast's beauty is truly supernatural.

The free Vaughn Cottage Museum and Library is another quaint stop to make while touring Star Island. It documents the history of the isles, and notable visitors and contains some of the personal possessions of the island's once-thriving literary community.

Other activities include kayaking, fishing, and dining at the Oceanic Hotel .

Related: 10 Magical Island Getaways In The U.S.

The rest of the Isles are typically off-limits. However, visitors can still view them from aboard passing cruises.

Appledore Island was an artistic haven in the 19th century thanks to its most influential inhabitant: Celia Thaxter . Known as one of the East Coast's most famous poets, Thaxter published many works about her life on the isles. Her presence also attracted a diverse group of writers and artists to the island.

Smuttynose Island was the scene of an 1837 double murder. The event has since been the topic of many stories, including Celia Thaxter's poem "A Memorable Murder" and Anita Shreve's book The Weight of Water, as well as its movie adaptation. It's among the sights to see for movie buffs .

White Island is distinguished by the gorgeous lighthouse that juts up from its craggy coast. The Isles of Shoals Light is an impressive, centuries-old structure that has been restored. The Light is now one of New Hampshire's two functional lighthouses and is a must-see for those visiting America's historic lighthouses .

Malaga Island, Seavey Island, Lunging Island, Cedar Island, and Duck Island are now private and host conservation projects. Seals, gulls, and other coastal animals can often be seen lounging on their shores.

Adventurers to the Isles of Shoals can mimic the sea-faring voyages of the first settlers. Uncle Oscar Island Cruises offers boat tours from the end of June to the beginning of September. Passengers depart from Rye Harbor, New Hampshire, at 9 am and are treated to a narrated cruise as they take in the natural beauty of the islands. The ferry then docks at Star Island, allowing guests to disembark and explore. The company offers a three-hour walkabout or a day visit option. Tours can be booked online or by calling +1 800 964 5545 .

• Senior (60+ yrs): $35
• Child (4-15 yrs): $28
• Child (0-4 yrs): Free
• Senior (60+ yrs): $39
• Child (4-15 yrs): $33

Address: 1870 Ocean Blvd, Rye, New Hampshire 03870

The most authentic experience of the isles is an overnight stay at the Oceanic Hotel . Built in the 19th century, it is still open from mid-June to mid-September. It includes shared rooms, single rooms, and motel units.

It is a rustic experience. Guests should be aware that showers are available every other day as the water supply is sourced from rainwater. Additionally, most of the rooms do not lock.

Phone reservations can be made by calling +1 603 498 2780 . Prices vary based on room choice, but a personal retreat is estimated to be about $235 per night . This includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

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Star Island is within the waters of N’dakinna, the traditional lands and waterways of the Abenaki, Pennacook and other related Wabanaki Peoples past and present. We acknowledge and honor with gratitude the land itself and the people who have stewarded it throughout the generations.

Star Island is one of the nine Isles of Shoals located seven miles off the coast of New Hampshire and Maine. All are welcome to explore the island for a day, enjoy a meal, spend the night, or attend a conference. Star is owned and operated by the nonprofit Star Island Corporation.

Star has a storied history: in the 1600’s it was the busiest fishing port on the East coast. In the 1800’s, artists, writers and intellectuals flocked to the Oceanic Hotel - one of the last of the original Grand Hotels. For the last 100 years, Star Island has offered an all-inclusive summer camp experience for families and hosted a wide variety of themed conferences and personal retreats.

Whether you find yourself mesmerized by the sunset in a rocking chair on the porch, exploring Gosport Harbor in a kayak, or learning about our innovative environmental programs, Star Island is unforgettable.

2024 Programs

Rug Hooking 2024

September 2 - 6 or september 9 - 13.

Midweek 2 2024

September 9 - september 13.

Star Harmony 2024

September 13 - september 15.

Find Your Summer Program

We are proud of how the Star Island Community has rallied together to form a Community of Care, which includes being mindful of not only one’s own health and safety, but also that of everyone else who comes to Star.

Read our COVID-19 Policy

Star Island was founded on the traditions of Unitarian Universalism and the United Church of Christ. We strive to contribute to our world by providing a sacred and meaningful space for a vibrant intergenerational community. Our founders believed in liberal religious traditions, and we carry on with their mission today.

Learn more about our mission, vision and values >

What is it like to live and work on Star Island? On Jan. 12, 2023, a group of former Pelicans — Star Island’s summer seasonal staff — gathered to answer questions from people interested to learn more. The conversation covered such topics as what to pack for a summer on Star, what a typical day… Read more >