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Activity #923 |
Boston Light Tower Climbing Tour |
Where does this tour leave from?
This tour leaves from Fan Pier and returns to Fan Pier.
Are the ferry and island wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, the tour is not handicapped accessible this year due to a dock reconstruction project taking place. All participants must be able to navigate somewhat unsteady terrain and climb down stairs with minimal assistance. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us directly by clicking the "Contact this seller" link.
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Tickets must be purchased in advance, and tours often sell out quickly. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance. Tickets can only be purchased with a Visa, Mastercard or American Express.
What type of ticket should I purchase if I'm bringing a child?
For children between the ages of 3 and 11 you should purchase a reduced price Child ticket. Children ages 2 and younger attend for free, but you'll still need to enter the appropriate number of Wee One tickets labeled "Free" when purchasing. All passengers, regardless of age, must have a ticket, so please make sure your entire party is accounted for in this way.
Are food or drinks served on the tour?
Food and drinks are not included in the price of the tour. If you would like to enjoy a bagged lunch during your visit to Little Brewster Island, you may purchase one from the Daily Catch restaurant, which is co-located with our departure point and gift shop. To place a bagged lunch order, please get in touch with us by clicking the "Contact this seller" link. Please allow 72 hours advance notice for all orders.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Yes! We welcome you to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy during your time on Little Brewster Island. As with all the Boston Harbor Islands, we have a carry-in carry-off trash policy. Please keep in mind, however, that alcoholic beverages are not permitted on the island or during the ferry ride.
Can I purchase other snacks during the tour?
You will be able to purchase beverages and other snacks prior to departure. Food is not available on the island, although you will be able to purchase bottled water. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on the island.
What do we see on the ferry?
During your ferry boat ride from Boston to Little Brewster Island you'll get amazing views of three lighthouses - Graves Light, Long Island Head Light, and Boston Light. Along the way, your ranger guide will entertain you with stories of Boston Harbors' maritime traditions and island life.
How much time do we spend on the island?
Your tour begins with a 45 minute ferry ride through the Harbor Islands to Little Brewster Island. You will spend about an hour and a half on the island where you'll meet the US Coast Guard Light keeper and climb the light tower if you choose to do so. Please indicate that you wish to climb the light on the purchase page when you buy tickets, as climbing space is limited for each tour.
What do we do on the island?
Once you arrive at Little Brewster Island, you'll meet the only US Coast Guard Light Keeper and view the Boston Light. You'll also visit the related structures like the cistern and oil house. If you'd like, you can also enjoy a picnic lunch and enjoy breath-taking views of the Harbor Islands and the Boston skyline. You may also climb the tower of Boston Light if you indicate that you wish to climb when you purchase your tickets.
Can we climb the lighthouse tower?
Yes, the lighthouse tower is open for climbing this year. You will get a close up view of Boston Light's unique Fresnel lens. If you wish to climb, you must indicate that you are climbing when you purchase your tickets via a "message to seller," as climbing space is limited for each tour. Also, you must be at least 8 years old and 48 inches tall in order to climb the tower.
How much walking is involved during the island visit?
Little Brewster Island is a small three acre island at high tide. There are short trails and places to sit. When you arrive on island, you must walk down a short flight of steps off the boat onto a cobbled (uneven) beach. At low tide, it is possible that your feet might get wet as you disembark. Please wear suitable footwear. Also, if you are climbing there are 76 steps and two small ladders inside the tower.
What do I do if I am traveling in a large group?
We're sorry, but there are no discounts for large groups. However, if you would like any special arrangements made for your group, such as bagged lunches or private tours of Boston Light, please get in touch with us directly by clicking the "Contact this seller" link.
What happens if it is raining on the day of my tour?
The Boston Light tour will run in moderate weather conditions. If it is raining, the tour will still run as scheduled so please plan accordingly. Be assured that our visitors' well-being is our highest priority, and should conditions require, the tour will be canceled as a safety precaution. Should that happen, you will be notified immediately (up to an hour before the start time of the tour) and given the option to either reschedule, receive credit for a future event, or receive a full refund.
What is your refund policy?
Tickets for the Boston Light Tour are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled. In the event that we have to cancel your tour due to severe or unsafe weather conditions, you will be given the option to reschedule your tickets, receive credit for a future event, or receive a refund.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes and layer according to the weather. The boat ride is usually somewhat windy. We suggest sunscreen and hats for sunny days or ponchos for rainy days. Ponchos are also available for sale at the departure point prior to the tour. Also, please wear comfortable footwear that is somewhat waterproof. If your tour is landing during low tide, it is possible that you may have to step onto a wet beach area from the boat.
Are there bathrooms along the way?
Bathrooms are available at the meeting location and on the ferry. However, there are NO public restrooms on the Little Brewster Island. Please use the facilities either before or after the island visit.
Can I leave personal items on the boat?
Yes, some personal items can be left on the boat. Please keep in mind that your items will not be available to you during your time on the island however, since the boat tends to moor offshore during your visit.
Where does the tour finish?
The tour finishes in the same place it begins. The boat returns to the Fan Pier departure point after the tour.
Will I get seasick?
Passengers usually find the ferry to be a very steady vessel. However, you can choose to take something in advance if you're prone to motion sickness.
Is the ferry safe?
Yes, the boat and beach landing are safe and have been tested by the Coast Guard. We have life jackets on board for each passenger. The boat is a U.S. Coast Guard certified vessel.
Are tours only conducted in English?
Yes, tours are conducted only in English. However, our non-English speaking guests still enjoy the relaxing ferry ride through the Boston Harbor Islands and scenic views all around Little Brewster Island.
Are gift certificates available for the trip?
Yes! Gift certificates for tours in the Boston Harbor Island National Park are great for any occasion. To purchase a gift certificate, click on the "Contact this seller" link.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes! We offer tours for a variety of private events. Please use the "Contact this seller" link to inquire further.
