Park Alert:

Due to high winds and choppy waters, ferry service to Spectacle and Peddocks Islands will be suspended tomorrow, Friday, August 22.// The Sunset Lighthouse Cruise for Friday, August 22 is cancelled.

Public ferry service to Georges Island will be suspended until further notice due to water line repair. (updated 7/11/25 6:30pm)

Calendar

Activities, ranger tours, and most programs are included with your ferry ticket.

Founder’s Day Free Ferry Day

Celebrate Founder’s Day—the National Park Service’s Birthday—with FREE ferry service to Spectacle Island!

In honor of Founder’s Day, join the National Park Service, Boston Harbor Now, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, and Boston Harbor City Cruises as we celebrate public lands with a free ferry ride to Spectacle Island, a gem in Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park. Concessions provided by ZaZ Restaurant will be available on island at the Visitor Center.

Ferry Departure Times from Long Wharf North:

  • 10:30 AM
  • 12:30 PM
  • 2:30 PM

Ferry Departure Times from Spectacle Island:

  • 1:30 PM
  • 3:30 PM
  • 5:30 PM

How To Get Tickets:

Tickets are first-come, first-served, and can be picked up at the Boston Harbor City Cruises Ferry Center at Long Wharf North beginning at 8:00 AM. No advance reservations; arrive early, as the event will sell out fast!

Note: This event cannot accommodate groups—5 tickets allowed per adult. 

Know Before You Go:

Just 30 minutes from downtown Boston, Spectacle Island is the perfect escape for families, friends, and solo adventurers of all ages. With five miles of scenic hiking trails, an unguarded beach, shady picnic spots, and a visitor center staffed by friendly Park Rangers, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. 

Breathe in the cooling sea breezes, soak up panoramic views of Boston Harbor, and enjoy wide-open space to run, explore, and unwind. Whether you’re looking for an easy nature getaway or a fun, low-key family day, Spectacle Island offers the kind of summer magic that’s hard to beat. 

Come celebrate America’s best idea—its parks—with us!

#FoundersDay #BostonHarborIslands #SpectacleIsland #FreeFerryDay

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