Boston Lighthouse tours resume for the summer

The National Park Service, United States Coast Guard, and Boston Harbor NOW resume ranger-led summer tours of Boston Light in celebration of the 300th anniversary of the nation’s first and oldest lighthouse station.

The three-hour adventure begins with a 45-minute ranger-narrated tour through Boston Harbor with dramatic views of Boston’s skyline and the other islands. Visitors learn about the rich maritime history of the harbor islands, and have opportunities to see two of the harbor’s other historic lighthouses – Long Island Head Light and The Graves Light. After a scenic ride around the around the islands, the ferry docks at Little Brewster Island – home to historic Boston Light. Visitors have a chance to talk with the lighthouse keeper, hear stories of families who have tended Boston Light over its storied 300-year history, and climb the tower’s 76 steps to see the only Fresnel lens in use in the Commonwealth today. Boston Light’s spectacular views of Massachusetts Bay and Boston will leave visitors in awe.

National Park Service Superintendent, Giles Parker, says: “Boston Light, which celebrates its 300thanniversary this year, is the kind of national icon that captures the public’s imagination. When you look at the lighthouse, you understand the challenges of going to sea. You think about the people who have navigated their boats through darkness and stormy seas to find that reassuring beam to guide them into safe harbor. Our summer programs offer opportunities to explore the lighthouse and imagine the courage and sacrifice of the keepers and mariners who helped to preserve and protect this harbor over the years.’’

"We are excited to have a record breaking summer for visitors," added Sally Snowman, Keeper of Boston Light. "Over the last two years, the Coast Guard invested $1.5 million for major repairs to restore Boston Light and her facilities to prepare for this momentous anniversary!”

Boston Light Tours begin on June 17th and run through October 2nd. Tours will depart from the Boston Harbor Island Welcome Center on the Rose Kennedy Greenway at 9:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Individual fares are: $41 for adults, $37 for seniors, students and active members of the military, and $32 for children, ages 8-11, and $25 for children under 8. Boston Harbor NOW Chief Executive Officer, Kathy Abbott says, “Boston Harbor NOW is proud to support this program as it is a must-see for all tourists visiting the Boston area, local area residents and lighthouse lovers.”

For more information and to purchase tickets for the Boston Light Tour, visit www.bostonharborislands.com/bostonlight. For a complete schedule of summer activities, including the opening of our camping islands on June 17, visit bostonharborislands.org, become a fan on Facebook of Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park, or follow us on Twitter @34islandsboston.