Press Release   DCR, NPS, Boston Harbor Now, and Boston Harbor City Cruises Announce the Return of Ferry Service to Spectacle Island 

Boston — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), in partnership with the National Park Service (NPS), Boston Harbor Now, and Boston Harbor City Cruises, today announced that ferry service to Spectacle Island will resume on Saturday, June 20, following a temporary suspension of service to accommodate repairs to the island’s ferry docking area.  

“With summer now in full swing and Boston welcoming visitors from all over the world, we’re excited that ferry service to Spectacle Island is returning,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. “Our public lands are meant to be explored, and the return of ferry service means more residents, families and visitors can once again experience one of Boston Harbor’s most remarkable places. From scenic hiking trails and waterfront views to its unique history and natural beauty, Spectacle Island offers a chance to connect with the Harbor in a special way. I’m grateful to our staff and partners for completing these repairs safely and to everyone for their patience while this work was underway.” 

 "We're excited to see ferry service return to Spectacle Island and grateful to the Department of Conservation and Recreation staff whose work made it possible," said Kathy Abbott, President and CEO of Boston Harbor Now. "For many people, ferry service is the gateway to experiencing Boston Harbor firsthand. The return of regular service means residents and visitors can once again easily access one of Boston Harbor's most iconic destinations. Spectacle Island reminds us that extraordinary public spaces exist just minutes from downtown Boston, and we're proud to work alongside our partners to connect more people with these remarkable places." 

After offering regular ferry service to the island through last season, DCR had to delay resuming operations at Spectacle Island earlier this year to allow for repairs to the island’s docking area. Access to the island remained open to the general public, but only through private vessels that were small enough to reach the shore or capable of being secured in the island’s mooring area.  

Beginning this spring, DCR undertook a maintenance effort to repair worn connections between the barge and pilings that make up the island’s docking area. The connections have since been replaced, allowing for the safe, stable docking of ferries.  

Beginning Saturday, June 20, ferries to Spectacle Island will operate seven days a week through the summer season. Regular ferry service to Peddocks Island from Hingham and expanded service to Georges Island also began their summer operations schedule on Sunday, June 14.  Service to the Boston Harbor Islands will continue on its summer schedule through the first week of September before transitioning to its fall schedule. A full schedule of Boston Harbor Island ferry operations can be found on  Boston Harbor Islands’ website.

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