Do you have indoor decks?
Yes we do. The M/V Thomas Laighton has two fully enclosed indoor heated decks. We also have three outdoor decks as well.

Do you offer food aboard the ship?
We have a galley bar that includes hot dogs, chili, chowder, Moe's subs, candy, chips, drinks and alcoholic drinks for our 21 and over guests. No alcohol or glass products are allowed on board due to Coast Guard Regulations .

May I bring a lunch or dinner onboard with me?
Unfortunately, passengers are not permitted to bring picnic lunches and/or coolers on board with them. Our galley is stocked with all sorts of goodies.

Do you have bathrooms aboard the ship?
Of course we do! We have four bathrooms aboard our vessel.

Directions to the Isles of Shoals Steamship Co:
We are easy to find.   We are conveniently located off Interstate-95 in downtown Portsmouth . Just an hour away from Boston . From I -95 north or south take Exit 7 turn towards Portsmouth we are ½ mile on the left hand side. From Rt 33, Rt 4 or Rt 16 take I-95N to Exit 7.

Is there parking available?
Yes we have onsite convenient parking for $4.00. You may also use the Portsmouth parking garage for .75 cents an hour. We do have overnight parking for an additional fee. Please call for more information.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes the boat is handicap accessible, please let us know if you will need special assistance with wheelchairs or canes when you arrive.

May we bring our dog aboard?
As much as we love all animals unfortunately no dogs or animals are allowed on board, and may not be left unattended on the property.

Will I get seasick onboard?
The M/V Thomas Laighton is a very stable ship, since we do travel out into the open ocean, waves do occur. The Captain and crew do their best to keep the boat on the calmest path. Seasickness is rare on the M/V Thomas Laighton, and those that tend to become sick on seafaring vessels often find their ride on our vessel to be a comfortable one. For your convenience, we do sell motion sickness pills in our gift shop and also on the boat.

May I bring my fishing equipment on board and fish?
We cannot allow fishing equipment on board for the safety and respect of our other patrons.

If it is bad weather, will the cruise be cancelled?
All cruises are rain or shine, and cancellation is up to the discretion of the Captain. Cancellation is only considered if we feel that the conditions pose a danger to our passengers. Lightning does not pose a danger to passengers, and the ship is perfectly safe under those conditions.

Is the vessel Coast Guard certified?
Yes, the M/V Thomas Laighton is Coast Guard certified and maintained regularly to follow Coast Guard safety regulations.

What kind of music is played?
Our sightseeing cruises feature an incredible full narration through the Isles of Shoals. Evening dinner cruises feature light background music as your glide through the Portsmouth Harbor. Our party ships feature a full range of popular dance tunes- some party ships have a live band onboard while others have a DJ.

May I purchase gift certificate?
Yes you may! Gift certificates are available in any denomination and may be purchased online or by calling 603-431-5500. Gift certificates never expire.

Are gratuities included?
Crew gratuity is not included in your package, however, it is greatly appreciated by the crew if you deem appropriate. Gratuities can be left with the Captain or the Cruise Director. Open bar subject to 18% gratuity.

Will my cell phone work on the cruise?
Yes, your cell phone will work on the water. For the comfort and convenience of other guests, we ask that cell phone conversations be held on the outside decks.

Can we smoke onboard?
Smoking is allowed on the boat as long as you smoke on the outside decks. There is no smoking in the enclosed areas. Please be respectful and put your remaining cigarettes in our smoking trays located on our outdoor decks.

What should we wear onboard the ship?
Be sure to dress in layers. Remember that it is 10 to 15 degrees cooler on the water than it is on land. Also be aware that the sun is bright. Don't forget your sun block!

Do you have a gift shop?
Yes there is a small gift shop located in our ticket booth on the dock. We sell many items including: t-shirts, sweatshirts, film, sunscreen, motion sickness pills, great books and many other items.

Do I need to make advance reservations?
Reservations for daytime sightseeing cruises are not required, but strongly recommended. Reservations for party ships or dinner cruises are required, as well as pre-payment in full.

Is it possible to hold tickets with a credit card, and then pay for them in cash when I come?
Party Ship and Dinner Cruise tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, and thus, must be paid for in full at time of purchase. Sightseeing Cruises do not require pre-payment; you may pay with cash, check, or credit card at time of arrival.

How will I receive up my tickets?
The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company does not mail tickets, however, your name and reservation will be held at the ticket office the day of the cruise. Simply check in with your name and ID when you arrive!

What kind of payments do you except?
Payment is accepted via MasterCard, Visa, check or cash. Prepaid reservations can be made by phone or via the Internet (Internet reservations only accepted for certain cruises).

What is your refund policy?
All cruises depart rain or shine from the decision of the Captain, and tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company is not responsible for passengers who miss the boat due to Mother Nature, transportation difficulties, personal sickness, or other personal emergency.

What activities do you offer for children?
We emphasize education and fun. Onboard activities include games, puzzles, stories and much more. Children who wish to can become an “Honorary Naturalist” by completing a log of all of the marine creatures that they see. Also while you wait to board the ship there is an exciting live touch tank and presentation done ½ hour prior to our daily cruises sponsored by Blue Ocean Society .

Are there group and senior citizen discounts available?
The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company honors a group discount of $5 for each adult ticket in a party of 25 or more on Sightseeing Cruises and Party Ships only. This status must be reserved prior to the cruise date, please call our office to arrange this discount.
Senior citizens (60+ yrs) and members of the U.S. Military receive $3 off each adult ticket. Please inform the ticket office attendant when purchasing tickets.

May we ride the Dinner Cruise without having dinner?
Of course! Please inform the ticket office attendant that you would like to ride the cruise, but that you did not previously purchase dinner. The cost for the Harbor/River Cruise only is $20 per adult and $10 per child.

Are there reserved seats?
As a courtesy to those individuals with groups of 25 or more, reserved seating is on a first come, first serve basis and will be applied to group sales.

How many islands are there?
There are nine Isles of Shoals: Duck, Appledore, Malaga, Smuttynose, Cedar, Star, Lunging, White and Seavey. Some people say there are actually eight Isles because White Island and Seavey Island are joined by a small land bridge which you can only see at low tide. At high tide the bridge is obscured making the two islands one and the same.

May I get off at any of the islands?
Each island is privately owned. You may however get off on Star Island either by your own personal boat or by a chartered boat from the Star Island Corporation. Appledore Island is also accessible but only for taking classes and to visit Celia Thaxter's Garden.

Star Island Corporation : 603-430-6272 or visit their website - www.starisland.org.
Appledore Island : 603-964-9011 or visit their website – www.sml.cornell.edu .
Celia Thaxter's Garden ( Cornell University ): 607-225-3717 or visit their website – www.sml.cornell.edu .

What kind of wildlife might we see?
Each journey is unique. In the past we have seen Basking Sharks, Sun Fish (Mola Mola), breaching Tuna and Harbor Seals. Birds include a variety of Gulls, Cormorants, Shearwaters and other migratory and pelagic species.

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About Weddings & Receptions:
When is payment due?
The deposit of $3000, which is based on the minimum guarantee of 100 guests, will be due within ten days from the date of issuance. Your remaining balance will be due in full 120 days after your deposit.

Will there be parking available for my guests?
Parking for you and your guests is included in the Wedding Package. Guests will be met by a parking attendant upon entering the lot and directed where to park. Additional parking is available at the Hanover Street Parking Garage. On street parking is also available.

Is there a bar onboard?
There are two fully stocked cash bars on the M/V Thomas Laighton. The Isles Of Shoals Steamship Co. provides all alcoholic beverages. Open bar available upon request, subject to an 18% gratuity charge. All bar tabs must be paid in full prior to disembarking. Special item requests are available with reasonable notice before the cruise date.

What if the seas are rough?
Comfort is what we promise you. Whether it's the islands, the harbor or the bay, we'll be sure to set a course for smooth waters. If you have a landmark with special meaning to you, let us know! Whether it's the Isles of Shoals, Portsmouth Harbor, Whaleback Light or Great Bay, we'll do our best to provide the requested backdrop for your once in a lifetime wedding.

When does boarding take place?
Boarding begins 20 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. There are two bridges that lift at designated times. The Sarah Long Bridge (which goes out to Great Bay) lifts at quarter to the hour and quarter past the hour and the Memorial Bridge (which goes out to the Isles of Shoals) lifts at half past the hour and on the hour. In order to get guests on the boat on time, it is important to word invitations according to the bridge lift times and where you would like to cruise to. For example, if you are having a wedding aboard the M/V Thomas Laighton at 6 pm and you would like to go to the mouth of the Portsmouth Harbor for your ceremony, we would need to make the Memorial Bridge lift. So departure time would be 6:15- 6:20 pm. The invitation should state 6 pm as a start time and that would give plenty of time for boarding to get underway and make the 6:30 pm bridge lift. Tides will determine upon which deck you board and disembark.

Are gratuities included?
Crew gratuity is not included in your package, however, it is greatly appreciated by the crew if you deem appropriate. Gratuities can be left with the Captain or the Cruise Director. Open bar subject to 18% gratuity.

Where will our ceremony be performed?
The ceremonies are often performed right on our vessel. We will schedule a full rehearsal with you prior to your function. Ceremonies are performed either on the top sundeck (mother nature dependent) or on the fully enclosed main deck. A private changing area is also available for the bride prior to and throughout your cruise.

Does the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company plan the wedding?
Your personal cruise director will welcome you and your guests aboard and make sure your cruise goes smoothly. Let us worry about the details while you set your mind free to enjoy this wonderful day.

May I decorate the boat?
For the comfort and safety of all passengers the following are not permitted: Balloons, Confetti, Popcorn, & Candles.

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About Private Charters & Special Occasions:
When is payment due?
A deposit of 50% will be due within ten days from the date of reservation. The remaining 50% of the charter fee, and all other fees, will be due 60 days after your deposit.

Will there be parking available for my guests?
A $3.00 parking charge per car will be collected at the gate upon arrival at the State of New Hampshire's Barker Wharf. We would be glad to arrange a parking tab for you and your guests.

Is there a bar onboard?
There are two fully stocked cash bars on the M/V Thomas Laighton. Bartender(s) are included with the package. The Isles Of Shoals Steamship Co. provides all alcoholic beverages. Open bar available upon request, subject to an 18% gratuity charge. All bar tabs must be paid in full prior to disembarking. Special item requests are available with reasonable notice before the cruise date.

What if the seas are rough?
Comfort is what we promise you. Whether it's the islands, the harbor or the bay, we'll be sure to set a course for smooth waters.

When does boarding take place?
Boarding begins 20 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. There are two bridges that lift at designated times. The Sarah Long Bridge (which goes out to Great Bay) lifts at quarter to the hour and quarter past the hour and the Memorial Bridge (which goes out to the Isles of Shoals) lifts at half past the hour and on the hour. In order to get guests on the boat on time, it is important to word invitations according to the bridge lift times and where you would like to cruise to.

Are gratuities included?
Crew gratuity is not included in your package, however, it is greatly appreciated by the crew if you deem appropriate. Gratuities can be left with the Captain or the Cruise Director. Open bar subject to 18% gratuity.

Does the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company plan our event?
Your personal cruise director will welcome you and your guests aboard and make sure your cruise goes smoothly. Let us worry about the details while you set your mind free to enjoy this wonderful day.

May we decorate the boat?
For the comfort and safety of all passengers the following are not permitted: Balloons, Confetti, Popcorn, & Candles.

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About Groups:
When is payment due?
Payment in full is required for all public dinner cruises and party ships. You will be billed for your minimum guarantee. Dinner cruise and party ship tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. You may purchase additional tickets on a space available basis. For groups on a sightseeing cruise, payment will be based upon the number of guests you will be having. For groups of 25 or more, a $5 per person discount off the adult price will be given and a deposit of the 25 guest minimum will be due 10 days prior to cruise. The remaining balance will be paid prior to departure the day of the cruise.

Are deck rentals available?
Deck rentals are available on a first come, first serve basis. Mid-deck rental requires the purchase of 48 tickets (capacity) & guarantees all seating on the mid-deck. For larger parties, we offer a main-deck rental with capacity of 78 guests. The purchase of these 78 tickets guarantees all seating on the main deck. You must notify ISSCo upon booking to take advantage of our deck rental.

May we rent the fantail deck?
The fantail deck is a covered open-air deck which offers a private hide-away for a small gathering of approximately 25 guests. The fantail deck rental includes deck chairs and side tables. The fee for this rental is $150 per hour.

Will there be parking available for my guests?
A $4.00 parking charge per car will be collected at the gate upon arrival at the State of New Hampshire's Barker Wharf. We would be glad to arrange a parking tab for you and your guests.

Is there a bar onboard?
There are two fully stocked cash bars on the M/V Thomas Laighton. Bartender(s) are included with the package. The Isles Of Shoals Steamship Co. provides all alcoholic beverages. Open bar available upon request, subject to an 18% gratuity charge. All bar tabs must be paid in full prior to disembarking. Special item requests are available with reasonable notice before the cruise date.

What if the seas are rough?
Comfort is what we promise you. Whether it's the islands, the harbor or the bay, we'll be sure to set a course for smooth waters.

When does boarding take place?
Boarding begins 20 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. There are two bridges that lift at designated times. The Sarah Long Bridge (which goes out to Great Bay) lifts at quarter to the hour and quarter past the hour and the Memorial Bridge (which goes out to the Isles of Shoals) lifts at half past the hour and on the hour. In order to get guests on the boat on time, it is important to word invitations according to the bridge lift times and where you would like to cruise to.

Are gratuities included?
Crew gratuity is not included in your package, however, it is greatly appreciated by the crew if you deem appropriate. Gratuities can be left with the Captain or the Cruise Director. Open bar subject to 18% gratuity.

Does the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company plan our event?
Your personal cruise director will welcome you and your guests aboard and make sure your cruise goes smoothly. Let us worry about the details while you set your mind free to enjoy this wonderful day.

May we decorate the boat?
For the comfort and safety of all passengers the following are not permitted: Balloons, Confetti, Popcorn, & Candles.

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About Fieldtrips & Education:
When is payment due?
Payment in full is required on the day of your cruise. You will receive one free chaperone for every 10 students. Additional chaperones are welcome on a space available basis at the student rate.

What is expected of each chaperone?
All chaperones must have a clear list of the students for whom they are responsible. Please have each chaperone sign the bottom of their list before handing it to the Captain upon boarding. All chaperones must stay with their assigned students. There is to be no congregating with other chaperones.

Do we need to make nametags?
Students as well as chaperones MUST wear nametags. It is extremely important for students as well as our staff to be able to easily identify chaperones.

What if the seas are rough?
We will contact you and keep in touch regarding any upcoming weather situations. In the event the seas are too rough to do a scheduled Isles of Shoals & Portsmouth Harbor Tour, our Captains reserve the right to offer a Portsmouth Harbor & Inland River Cruise.

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To contact us with further comments or questions:

• Isles of Shoals Steamship Company
  P.O. Box 31
  315 Market Street
  Portsmouth , NH 03802-0311
• Phone 1-800-441-4620 / 603-431-5500 Fax 603-433-1280
• Email