This was a fun outing. We hadn't done this before. The cruise was about 1.5hrs and was wonderful…read more The weather was perfect. Along the way we learned about different areas around Ipswich. Essex, and Gloucester. We saw lots of wildlife too. It was truly an enjoyable ride and the staff were great. Our trip was packed with people and the top priority was safety which they did a great job ensuring we all knew about. Definitely something to check out if you're in the area.

Great relaxing cruise along the river, all the way to the ocean. Well narrated and always a great…read morebreeze . I like to go every year .

We recently spent an afternoon with the folks at Newburyport Whale Watch for a trip in the gulf of…read moreMaine searching for and watching some of the most amazing creatures in the ocean. The reservation process on line was straight forward and easy to use. The tickers were added to my iPhone wallet which would have been easy enough to board, but the staff had names available to check off which was even easier than fumbling with your phone or the internet access. For those who showed up on site to purchase tickets, those were available on site. Staff was young and friendly from greeting to service in the bar section with light food, snacks and beverages. The staff providing updates on the actual whales we did see was fascinating to hear. They were able to identify the two whales we did watch and made the experience all the better and personable. PSA - the staff works on tips similar to your waitstaff at a restaurant, so please be prepared to show your appreciation for their service, as warranted. While spotting whales is not guaranteed, we did see a couple of them, but not without a lot of travel. We were out almost a couple of hours to find them which also meant that after watching for about an hour, it was an equal trip back to the harbor. Keep that in mind. I am sure we all wish the trip was more like a 3 hour tour (with a happier ending than those on Gilligan's Island) but be prepared for spending 6 hours on the boat, especially if you are bringing young children who can become bored very easily especially in tight quarters. As a result, we returned to the dock at 6PM, 30 mins after the planned 5:30PM arrival while boarding the boat at 12:45PM for a scheduled 1:30PM departure. It should be noted that we did leave almost 20 mins late despite the booking warning that they will not wait for any passengers (but we did for 4 people...but I won't tell if you don't tell). The boat itself was clean and had plenty of seating inside and outside depending on your preference on the first two decks. They also have 2 bathrooms on the boat. I do not know why the top deck was not open as that would provide the best view of whales IMHO. Unfortunately, parking is a hassle in the area as most lots nearby only allow a 3 hour reservation via app or kiosk while you may be on the boat 6 hours. So, you run the risk of paying for 3 hours and then getting a ticket from the police which are located next door and cruise the lots steadily. Be warned.

We've had two great trips with Newburyport Whale Watch. Booking is straightforward, as are the…read moreinstructions on how to get there, though definitely leave ample time to park as the car park can be a little competitive! The boat isn't overcrowded and the staff are great, they are very enthusiastic, knowledgeable and kind, and it's obvious they love what they do - we enjoyed chatting to the on-board naturalist. The boat has two outdoor viewing decks and an enclosed sitting area by the snack bar. We preferred being outside but even in mid-June we had to wear coats and several layers because it gets chilly out at sea. We saw an acrobatic male humpback who breached multiple times - it was an experience of a lifetime!

We had fun. Was nice to get out on the water and enjoy a sunset. The drinks don't come with the…read moreticket price and wine selection is bottom shelf but it still was a fun time with good tunes playing thru out.

We have done this tour two times now with my Granddaughter. We always have a great time and it's…read moreamazing to go on a hot day and cool down. Staff is friendly and the boat is clean. Can't beat the price too!'

Top notch experience! They are very well organized from the instructions you receive after…read moreregistering to the check-in process and parking for $5 for the duration of your trip. It was great that it was a live narration rather than a recording. So many interesting facts along the way. We took the shoals island tour that included 1 hour at Star Island. The option to take a 1/2 hour tour or explore on your own for about an hour was available. Plenty of time to look around. Snacks and drinks available in boats are affordable or you can bring your own snacks. Overall a great experience.

We went on the M/V Thomas Laighton to and from Star Island…read more These folks are tops in their business. Not only a pleasant trip but also a superb narration of the historical significance of the details and also the points of interest along the route. Comfortable, full bar, snacks and great views.

We are new members to Freedom Boat Club this year and have recently been taking instructions with…read morethem on their boats so that we'll be comfortable out on the water on our own. We've been working with Gig and he is fantastic! He is extremely knowledgable and a very patient teacher. The training has been completely hands on and at our own pace and we've really enjoyed it. Freedom Boat Club is a great way to enjoy boating without having the worries of owning a boat yourself - especially if you are new to boating. We'd highly recommend Gig and FBC! Neal & Sue (Deb)

From the owner: Freedom Boat Club is the intelligent alternative to boat ownership. As a member of FBC, you would…read morereceive unlimited use at both our Newburyport, MA and Portsmouth, NH locations, as well as 4 reciprocal visits (annually) to each and every of the 70+ other FBC locations spread out across the United States. Our staff takes care of all the cleaning and maintenance of the boats, so our members can spend more time on the water with their family and friends. All of your boating dreams can now be reality.

Ken set us up for the perfect kayak trip. Great location and he really knew the tides and weather…read morepatterns. Kayak seats were the most comfortable I've had. He was bed friendly and knowledgeable. Had everything ready when we got there and picked us up a time. Fantastic experience!

The tour was truly a fantastic, breathtaking experience. Such a wonderful staff. It was my first…read moretime in a kayak. They were so kind and super supportive. They were very encouraging and made sure everyone in our group was prepared and set-up to our individual comfort levels. The whole operation was professional, very well organized and perfectly orchestrated. Thank you so much Plumb Island Kayak for a great day of the water. Abby, Lisa and Ken thank you so much for a such a happy memory.