Visit islands, take advantage of public moorings and anchorage sites, or simply enjoy views of the park as you cruise through the harbor.
The Boston Harbor Islands offer a wealth of opportunities for boaters to enjoy the harbor using their own vessels. Launch from downtown Boston or one of several public boat ramps throughout the harbor, cruise among diverse Islands and peninsulas, or take advantage of public mooring sites within the park.
Visit our FAQ’s below for details on park moorings, launch sites, and important policies to be aware of before you travel to the park.
Be aware that Boston Harbor is home to many active shipping channels. Boaters and paddlers should use extreme caution when traveling in or near major shipping routes. Sea and weather conditions can change quickly and can vary greatly between islands that are closer to shore and the outer islands. Check the marine forecast before you depart to ensure a safe and successful trip.
Public moorings are available on Spectacle, Peddocks, Georges, and Gallops Islands (with no island access at Gallops). Moorings are available for reservation on the DOCKWA Marine Reservation System. DOCKWA is a simple app that can be downloaded onto your smartphone or accessed online.
The Hingham Harbormaster manages four moorings located on the east side of Worlds End, and two moorings at Langlee Island in Hingham Harbor. Click here for reservations.
Three moorings are located off of Thompson Island and are available for free on a first-come, first-served basis. Note that there is no public access to Thompson Island from these moorings.
Visitors may also anchor off of Park Islands for free and at their own risk.
Most piers allow passenger pick-up and drop-off. Vessel operator must remain with the boat during transfers. Boaters are permitted to bring their own dinghies or inflatables to shore to be stored in a designated area after mooring or anchoring.
Always yield to public ferries, state and emergency vessels.
Please note that the Spectacle Island dock is undergoing construction & maintenance. With your safety as our priority, drop off/pick ups are not permitted on the dock during this time.
Private boaters may not land on Thompson, Moon, Long, or Gallops Islands.
The Boston Harbor Islands are a carry-in, carry-out park. There are no trash cans. You must bring all your trash out of the park when you leave.
Boston Harbor is designated a No Discharge Zone, and all treated and untreated boat sewage must be pumped from boaters’ sewage holding tanks into either a pump-out facility or pump-out boat. There are a total of 35 pump out facilities in Boston Harbor.
Communities around Massachusetts have free public boat ramps with parking areas. Parking areas may carry a small daily fee.
The following are the closest local boat ramps to the islands:
· Winthrop: 649 Shirley Street
· Boston: 600 Morrissey Boulevard (gravel ramp)
· Quincy: 137 Bayview Avenue
· Hingham: 5 Otis Street
· Weymouth: 92 Beach Road
· Hull: 180 Main Street (gravel ramp)
Gravel ramps are not recommended for all vehicles at low tide.
Visit the Massachusetts Office of Fishing and Boating Access for detailed information on public boat launch sites throughout the state.
Boston Harbor Now and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) are committed to providing safe, convenient, and affordable access to the Boston Harbor Islands by boat. To support ongoing inspection, repair, and replacement of moorings, we are implementing a modest fee adjustment for the 2026 season following several years of minimal change.
Even with this update, Harbor Islands mooring rates will remain below comparable market rates in the region. Pricing continues to balance affordability and access, including a flat rate at Peddocks Island, shoulder season discounts, and higher weekend and holiday rates to reflect demand.
Why are mooring fees increasing this season?
Mooring fees are being adjusted to support essential maintenance, safety, and long-term stewardship. Over time, the cost of maintaining these systems has increased, and the updated rates ensure the moorings remain safe and reliable for all users.
How often have fees increased in the past?
Increases have been infrequent and modest. Rates rose by $2 in 2021 and by $3 in 2025. The current adjustment reflects a more comprehensive update after several years of minimal change.
How do the new rates compare to other moorings in the region?
Even with the increase, Harbor Islands moorings remain below market rates. Comparable moorings in Boston Harbor and Hingham are often significantly higher, in some cases up to $100 per day depending on services.
What specifically will the additional revenue support?
Revenue will support inspection, repair, and replacement of moorings, as well as ongoing monitoring and upkeep. Each season, some moorings require servicing or replacement due to wear, weather, or loss.
Were boaters consulted in this decision?
Yes. Boston Harbor Now and DCR gathered input from experienced boaters and harbor users, who indicated that the proposed increase is reasonable given current conditions and market comparisons.
Will moorings still be available at Spectacle Island even though the marina is closed?
Yes. Moorings will be available. They are located on the left side when facing the island from the pier, while the marina is on the right side near the ferry dock.
Why are weekend and peak season rates higher?
Weekend and peak season pricing reflects higher demand. This structure helps manage usage while maintaining more affordable weekday and shoulder season options.
Why does Peddocks Island have a flat rate?
Peddocks Island maintains a flat rate to keep pricing simple and support consistent access throughout the season.
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation in collaboration with Boston Harbor Now and the Boston Harbor Islands Partnership are excited to welcome boaters to park moorings located at Spectacle, Georges, and Peddocks Islands. Moorings can be reserved on the Dockwa platform—for updated rates and details, visit from your smartphone app or click on the links below!
Book Spectacle