The Right Choice

The ferry ride is comfortable, relaxing, and fun. Park ferries leave regularly from several mainland piers. Refreshments and restrooms are available on board the 200-passenger Harbor Islands Express ferries to Georges and Spectacle Islands. Smaller ferries serve Lovells, Grape, Bumpkin, Peddocks, and Thompson Islands.

Plan the trip that’s right for you. First, check to make sure boats are running to your destination (routes are seasonal). Then, make your own itinerary. Or choose one of these . . .

One Ticket: Two Islands

These two islands are the most popular in the park. And with good reason! Purchase your Harbor Islands Express ferry ticket and get down to Long Wharf-North in downtown Boston to catch hourly departures. It is best that you leave before noon, to enjoy both islands.

• Georges Island: Tour the National Historic Landmark, Fort Warren, a 19th-century granite stronghold built to defend Boston. There are free ranger-guided tours and snack-and-beverage amenities.
• Spectacle Island: Take a swim from a lifeguard-supervised beach. Hike along five miles of trails with spectacular views of the Boston skyline and harbor. A “green” visitors center has a cafe and exhibits.
   

Summer Multi-Island Adventure

Four rustic islands—Grape, Bumpkin, Peddocks, and Lovells Islands—are favorites for fun day trips and three of these offer camping. We recommend visiting no more than two your first day. When visiting these islands travel direct from Hingham or Hull, or take a connecting ferry from Georges.