Yes!

Both of our vessels are equipped with an on board marine restroom, known as a "head"! There is also a restroom available on shore at the marina. Note that the restroom on board is down a small set of stairs, whereas the on shore one is not.

No!

In over 25 years of plying the Essex River, we have never had anyone get seasick due to rough waters. The Essex River is a very sheltered area, with the well known Crane Beach acting as a great barrier from the occasional rough seas of the open ocean.

Eat, Antique, or Explore!

Essex is well known for its restaurants and antique shops. The famous Woodman's of Essex, known to be the inventor of the fried clam, still operates year round along the causeway today, and is a must stop for any fried clam enthusiast. Anyone who takes a particular interest in antiques will find themselves right at home, as there are over 25 antique shops in Essex, all within one mile of one another. If you want some more time outdoors, take some time to explore some of the local nature trails. Outdoorsmen will find themselves right at home, as you meander out into parts of the estuary you may be seeing during your event with us.

Yes!

We have plenty of FREE parking on site for passengers at all times. It is all very close, and there is a drop off area if necessary.

No

Our vessels are non-smoking. We apologize for any inconvenience.

No

It is against the law under our liquor license to allow BYOB. We apologize for any inconvenience, but we appreciate your understanding and cooperation!

Yes!

Well...

We will bring a beach toy bag filled with assorted items such as a soccer ball, baseball, volleyball, frisbee, etc. We also provide tables, chairs, umbrellas, and catering set up (when applicable). Please keep in mind that the boat will remain accessible at the beach for the duration of the event, and there will be a restroom available. The boat is also shaded, so you may feel free to come sit on board whenever you like to get out of the potential hot sun. We also have bug spray available on board.

A tidal beach sandbar!

We will be on board the vessel for typically 30-45 minutes each way to the beach. Once we arrive, the boat will anchor up to the shoreline where it will remain for the duration of the event. We have easy on and off access via either a few steps, or a small ramp. For the duration of our time on the sandbar, you may come on and off the boat as you please. We highly suggest keeping any valuables on the boat and not on the beach, and there is plenty of storage on board for personal items. Keep in mind, this is not a public beach! That means no public restrooms (except for the head on the boat, of course), snack bars, or lifeguards. For this reason, please be very cautious when swimming, and feel free to ask our crew if you feel it may be unsafe for any reason!

For a day at the beach!

You will probably want to dress for a full day of activity. Bring plenty of sun protection, such as sunglasses, sunblock, and a hat, as we will be on a small oasis with likely no shade. We suggest swimsuits, beach towels, and maybe a change of clothes. We highly suggest sandals! It may be slightly wet stepping from the boat onto the beach. You may bring any non-alcoholic beverages and snacks you think you may need.

We adapt!

In the event of rain or inclement weather, we will discuss some options on the morning of the event. Usually, with a light rain or passing shower, we are still able to go through with the event as planned. Depending on when during the event the rain occurs, it may require cruising for an extra couple of minutes, or packing up from the beach a little early. If it was a little more serious, we could alter the event to be a boat cruise followed by food onshore under our awning area, or for some groups, setting up the tables and eating right on the boat as we slowly meander along. However, if the weather is so inclement that either your Captain, and/or the United States Coast Guard deem it unsafe to travel, we will need to cancel or reschedule the event. Whatever the situation, please don't worry, as we will be here to help plan accordingly.