2022 Boat Tour to Misery Island

Journey on Essex Heritage's landing craft Naumkeag to Great Misery Island in Salem Sound. Along the way, hear stories about the rich history of the harbor and how the Misery Islands acquired their unique name. When you arrive, you'll have 2 hours to explore the trails, open meadows, rocky shoreline, and hidden coves on the island. The Misery Islands are managed by The Trustees. More information about the islands as well as a trail map can be found HERE

Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.

What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions

How much does this cost?

• Adults: $35
• Children (4-12 yr): $25
• Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

How long is the trip?

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

Are there restrictions on who can go?

YES. All passengers must be:

• At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
• Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

What should I wear?

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

What if it rains or is stormy?

Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it. You will be exposed to the elements going to and from the island.

What is the Cancellation Policy?

• If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
• If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.
• If the boat leaves the dock but cannot land on the island: In the very unlikely event that the boat arrives at Great Misery Island but cannot disembark passengers, you will still have experienced a pleasant boat ride and harbor tour. In this case, you will receive a refund for 50% of your ticket cost(s) (full refunds will only be given if the boat doesn’t leave the dock.)

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled?

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

Is there food or drinking water?

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.

Is smoking allowed?

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

Are there bathroom facilities?

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.

Are pets allowed?

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

Questions?

Please call our Bakers Island Line at (978) 212-9227, if no one answers right away please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

For information about the Misery Islands please visit the website of The Trustees, the regional organization that manages them: https://thetrustees.org/place/misery-islands/

Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.