Question 1

Are there restrictions on who can go?

Accepted Answer

YES. All passengers must be: At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers) and capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

Question 2

How long is the trip?

Accepted Answer

About 3 hours round-trip (30-minute trip to and from the islands, and 2  hours on Great Misery Island)

Question 3

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Comfortable clothing and rubber-soled shoes. Flip-flops not recommended; NO heels. IMPORTANT: It's colder on the water, and there is no shelter from the weather on our open boat. Bring an extra layer!

Question 4

Do I need sunscreen and bug spray?

Accepted Answer

There is no shade on the boat, and you will be entirely outside on the island, so sunscreen is a must. Ticks are also prevalent; we suggest a DEET or picaridin-based repellent before exploring and do a quick tick check afterward.  We do not provide any sunscreen or bug spray.

Question 5

What should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Do not bring more than you want to carry; nothing can be left/stored on the boat while we are disembarked. Items left on the Island cannot be retrieved until the next trip which could be anywhere from 5-7 days. Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.

Question 6

Are there bathroom facilities?

Accepted Answer

The bathroom facilities are VERY limited. There are bathrooms at the Salem Ferry dock, but there are no bathrooms on the boat. Once on the island, there are bathrooms along the trail.

Question 7

Is there food or drinking water?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not have any food or drink available while on board. You are free to bring your own, but please take everything back with you. If you carried it on then you must carry it back.

Question 8

Are pets allowed?

Accepted Answer

Pets are NOT permitted on our boat, with the exception of certified service animals defined by Title II and Title III of the ADA.

Question 9

Is smoking allowed?

Accepted Answer

Smoking is NOT permitted on the boat or anywhere on the island.

Question 10

What if it rains or is stormy?

Accepted Answer

You will be exposed to the elements going to and from the island, Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it, so be prepared for any kind of weather.  Please Note:  We will only cancel for severe weather; small craft advisory, or thunderstorms. Read our cancellation policy for more information.

Question 11

How will I know if my tour has been canceled?

Accepted Answer

Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been canceled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at (978) 998-2188.

Question 12

2026 Boat Tours to Great Misery Island

Good to know

Location

Salem Ferry Dock

How do you want to get there?

More events from Essex Heritage

Discover more events from Essex Heritage, from Travel & Outdoor to other experiences you might love.

Still looking for the right event?

Explore all events in Salem and filter by date, category, and more to find the perfect fit.