| Isles of Shoals Steamship Company History |
Captain Arnold Whittaker formed Viking Cruises in 1962, at this time he also took over ferry service contract to Star Island . He began with the M/V Viking which carried 100 passengers. Through hard work, vision, and good old Yankee ingenuity he grew Viking Cruises into a well respected and well recognized Tourism Business in the Greater Seacoast Community and beyond, while maintaining the ferry service to Star Island.
In 1986, when Captain Whittaker retired, his namesake Viking Cruises was retired with him along with the 540 passenger vessel the M/V Viking Sun. Robin and Bob Whittaker formed the Isles of Shoals Steamship Co. and launched the M/V Oceanic and M/V Thomas Laighton. While both vessels participated in contracted ferry runs, the M/V Oceanic's primary function was whale watching. The M/V Thomas Laighton enjoys evening dinner cruises, party ships and private charters.
In 1999 the M/V Thomas Laighton began offering Holiday Cruises. With two enclosed and fully heated decks, and thousands of holiday lights, guests enjoyed celebrating Christmas, New Years, and other special occasions on board the steamship style Laighton from April through December 31.
In 2002, the decision was made to discontinue whale watching, so the Oceanic enjoyed a few years in Daytona Beach , until she was sold November 2004, and is now proudly operating as the Spirit of Tarrytown, in Tarrytown , NY . If you are driving over the Hudson River, please stop by and bid her “hello.”
Today, Robin Whittaker and her dedicated staff continue the tradition of outstanding customer service, innovated cruises and community contributions. Although the tough decision was made to discontinue the ferry service, the Isles of Shoals Steamship Co. is very excited about to be visiting Star Island with our new Star Island cruise options. |
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