Hours: the boardwalk is accessible everyday from dawn to dusk
Cost: Free
Parking: There is plenty of parking (over 100 spots roughly) that can be paid for at kiosks at the parking lot
Universally Accessible: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Highlights: scenic, monuments, art, replica of historic ship
Summary: In addition to its scenic views, the boardwalk in Newburyport has a variety of memorials, markers and art for every visitor to enjoy.
Art, memorials, history and scenic views and a few surprise attractions await you at the boardwalk along Newburyport.
Originally constructed in 1977, the boardwalk had a makeover in 2002. It is now universally accessible.
Fittingly, during my visit the Nao Santa Maria, a tall ship replica of the Santa Maria, was in port.
The 200 ton ship, which was designed to replicate every feature of the original Santa Maria, set sail from Newburyport JUne 10.
There are numerous memorials, monuments and other historical markers along the boardwalk.
This memorial is dedicated to the crews of two different ships. the crew of the Heather Lynne II, a 45-foot fishing boat out of Newburyport that capsized off the coast of Cape Ann on September 5, 1996 when it struck a long cable connecting a 272-foot barge to the tugboat it was towing, Captain Jeffrey J. Hutchins, Kevin Foster and John M. Lowther lost their lives on that vessel.
There is also a plaque on the memorial dedicated to the crew of the FV Lady Luck who were lost at sea during the evening of January 31, 2007. Captain Sean P. Cone (24) and Crewman Daniel R Miller (21) were lost when the ship sank off the coast of Maine.
While the anchor, wheel and sheet of paper titled “Let A Payer Be Said”are common types of articles used for memorials, I found the lantern to be especially touching.
This monument is dedicated to the men and women of the United States Coast Guard. The monument was dedicated on August 4, 1989 to mark the 200th anniversary of the Coast Guard. The inscription, in part, states the people of Newburyport dedicate the plaque, “to the men and women of the United States Coast Guard who have courageously and faithfully served the nation for 200 years. For two centuries their labor has saved lives, buoyed our channels, ensured safe operation of ports and vessels, protected our shorelines from smugglers and defended the nation in every major war.”
Newburyport, MA, has a very close connection to the Coast Guard as you will see in the following monument just off the boardwalk.
Along the Waterfront Park next to the boardwalk is this marker which states the United States Coast Guard was born with the launching of the USRC Massachusetts on July 23, 1791.
It’s interesting to note the Coast Guard’s initial primary responsibility was to enforce tariffs and prevent smuggling. Their role has certainly expanded since then.
One of the great things about the boardwalk is there are lots of places for people to sit.
A bench and sitting area along the boardwalk is dedicated to Mayor Peter J Matthews, the 57th mayor of Newburyport who served from 1985 to 1987.
Also, chairs are set up for weary travelers or just photo opportunities.
There is also this maritime symbol along the boardwalk in case you get lost.
I tried asking this guy for directions. But, he wasn’t much help.
Markers along the boardwalk point out historic areas of interest.
Of course, there were lots of maritime vessels in the Merrimack River that runs along the boardwalk. The first boat is the Raven, the Newburyport Fire Marine 2 vessel.
The views of and from the Waterfront Park are very pretty.
There was also art, lots of art, along the boardwalk during my visit.
The following works of art were located at the Somberly’s Landing Sculpture Park along the boardwalk.
Rick Rothrock constructed “Eastern Portal”out of marble.
Wendy Klemperer constructed “Elk” out of steel
Robert Motes constructed “An Imaginary Place” out of stainless steel
Gillian Christy constructed “The Space Within, Buds” out of stainless stell with a powder coat
Dale Rogers constructed “Another Good Day” out of stainless steel, steel and stone
Leashed dogs are welcome on the boardwalk. And there were plenty of cute dogs on the boardwalk during my visit.
Mortimer is a very agile 3 year old Staffordshire mix.
Peak is a super friendly 7 year old Australian Cattle dog Pointer mix.
And, if Mortimer or Peak get thirsty walking along the boardwalk, the boardwalk has a special drinking fountain for them.
Location: 33 Lothrop St, Beverly, MA (about 30 minutes northeast of Boston, MA)
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Parking: On street parking is available but limited. I did not see a parking lot at or near the beach.
Handicapped Accessible: Yes, certain areas are handicapped accessible. The beach is accessible through a paved walkway to the right of the beach.
Dog Friendly: Yes
Highlights: scenic, boating and other water activities, historical memorials, fishing, wildlife
History, beauty and recreation await you at Independence Park.
The picturesque park offers scenic views and benches to sit.
Although the bench and path at the park are pretty and provide beautiful views, they do not lead to the beach.
I don’t usually take artistic license with the photos I take. But as I was editing this photo, I noticed how the red really stood out in the boat at the front of the group of boats.
Although it may be possible to get to the beach from the path by the benches, a fence and rocky area prevent easy access to the beach.
There are entrances to beach are a short jaunt to the right and left of the monuments at the park. And, to the right of the park is a paved walkway to the beach.
The beach offers beautiful views, a clean beach area and a jetty to fish off. Rumor has it striped bass (“stripers”) are abundant in the area.
There are a lot of birds and other wildlife at the beach.
The beach is a popular spot for paddle boarders, surfers and boaters.
If you’re in the area and you want to try paddle boarding, kayaking or even winter paddling or snow shoeing during the winter, try Coast To Coast Paddle. Aaron, seen in the photo below, was getting ready to take a few paddlers out while I was taking photographs.
As the name would suggest, Independence Park is more than just a haven for sun seekers and paddle boarders. It also has a rich history.
One of the plaques at the park states that in 1775 the first authorized armed ship, The Hanna, set sail in those waters to capture British vessels. Just standing in an area that played such a pivotal role in our history is pretty freegin cool when you think about it.
There are also cannons, monuments and flags on the grounds of the park.
The park is dog friendly and there were quite a few dogs at the beach while I was there.
Below are just a few of the cute dogs I saw during my visit.
Koa (on the left) is a 3 month old mixed breed dog. Frank (on the right) is a Golden Retriever.
Polly is a 13 year old mixed breed dog.
Willow is a 4 month old Englisg Cream Golden Retriever.
(Oliver) Twist is a 5 year old Schnauzer Cairn Terrier mix (aka Carnauzer).
Location: 301 Wentworth Rd. (Route 1B), New Castle, NH, (1 hour northeast of Boston, MA, 1 hour southeast of Concord, NH)
Hours: Open daily 9 a.m. until 9 p.m.
Cost:
New Castle Residents:
– No admission charge if vehicle has current resident sticker.
– Residents may invite up to 25 guests at no charge – Over 25 guests, admission fees apply.
– Resident must be present for all guests.
Non-Residents:
– Admission charged from May to the end of September.
General Admission Fees
– Individuals:
0-5 yrs old free
6 to 65 years old $4.00
65 and older $2.00
Handicapped $1.00
Parking: There are about 50 or more parking spots available in the parking area
Handicapped Accessible: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes, seasonally (pets are not allowed in the park or on the beach from May 15 to September 15)
Highlights: lighthouses, beach, places to grill, pavilions
Tips:
When you enter the park, you must turn right. The parking area is at the end of the circular paved road
If you want to use a pavilion, you may have to call ahead and reserve the area
No other name than Great Common Island may be more apt for this park. Except it’s not really an island. But, it is great.
The park, with attached beach, sits on the shore of New Castle ( a small town of 968 according to their 2010 census) just outside of Portsmouth, NH). The park and beach area are only 32 acres. But what it lacks in area it makes up for in beauty and charm.
The park offers some great views of the water. It is a good place to watch the waves crash against the rocks, although the waves weren’t too strong during my visit.
Great Island Common is popular with fishing enthusiasts, boaters and the occasional bird.
You can view two lighthouses from Great Island Common.
Whaleback Lighthouse was established in 1830. The granite lighthouse that stands there now was built in 1872 and it was automated in 1963.
Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, just down the road from the park, is also visible from Great Island Common. During the summer, there are open houses at the lighthouse on Sundays from mid May to late October from 1-5. Since I was visiting on a Saturday I was not able to attend the open house. Next to the lighthouse (to the left of the lighthouse in the photo above) is Coast Guard Station Portsmouth Harbor and Fort Constitution. In the distance, past the lighthouse, you can see the foliage has just started to begin.
Wood Island Life Saving Station in Kittery, Maine, is also visible from the park. In 1827, Wood Island was given to the federal government so the U.S. Navy could build barracks. However, it would eventually be used to quarantine Spanish-American War prisoners who had Yellow Fever. It is presently not in use.
One of the biggest attractions at the park is a sculpture of a painter by an easel working on the scenic skyline.
Pretty good painting of me. It looks so life-like.
Great Island Common is not just a park. A beach is also attached to the park.
The park is spacious for kids to play in with lots of big trees for shade.
Erected in 1984, the memorial honors all of the people of New Castle who have served the country in all wars and conflicts. Two benches sit next to the memorial, one on each side of it.
Great Island Common is dog friendly except from May 15 to September 15. Luckily, I was able to visit the week after ban ended. It was a picture perfect day with a calm breeze. So, it was a great day to bring your dog out!
Miley is a 8 year old Yorkie Poodle.
Tuck is a 6 month Cocka Poo (Cocker Spaniel & Poodle mix)
Remy (on the left) is a 10 year old Puggle and Phoebe (On the right) is a 1 and a half year old Puggle.
Jaelo (pronounced “J Lo”)is a 10 year old Puggle.
Below is a video by the shore of Great Island Common.
Posted below is a drone video of the Great Island Common area on Paul Moore’s YouTube page
Hours: Open daily, 9:00 – 5:00 (hours may vary depending on the season)
Cost:
Adult – $28.95
Senior (ages 65+) – $26.95
Youth (ages 4-14) – $18.95
Children (3 and younger) – Free
Parking: there is a free parking lot across the street from the Seaport Museum. There is also additional parking across the street from the parking lot for overflow
Handicapped Accessible: Yes, but not all of the buildings are accessible to the handicapped. Approximately one-third of our buildings have wheelchair-accessible entrances; interior access varies. The village’s unpaved roads are generally firm and stable suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. All roads are basically level with a few slight inclines located near the Children’s Museum, Treworgy Planetarium and Membership Building. (see link below for more info)
Highlights: living museum with character actors, boats, replicas of historic homes, figureheads, lighthouse replica, play area for children
Tips:
For an after museum viewing treat, Mystik Village, an open area shopping mall is a mere.9 miles away on Coogan Blvd
the museum’s main parking lot can fill up quickly if you don’t get there early. Additional parking can be found in the lots off Rossie St on the other side of the main parking lot
In part I of my blog posts about Mystic Seaport I showed you all of the figureheads and some other decorations and statues at the Seaport Museum. Since there were so many interesting things to see and photograph there, I decided to break the blog post into two or three installments . In this installment I will include photos of the boats and ships from the Seaport Museum (it is a seaport museum after all). I hope you enjoy!
The ship pictured above and the staple of the Seaport Museum is the Charles W. Morgan,the last of an American whaling fleet that once numbered more than 2,700 vessels. The Morgan, built and launched in 1841, is presently America’s oldest commercial ship still afloat. In fact, it is only second to “Old Ironsides”, the USS Constitution, in terms of age. It’s also very hard to fit the entire vessel in the frame of your camera’s view.
As I travel all over New England, I have become more aware of how all of the states in this region are interconnected. Evidence of this is how the Morgan was launched in 1841 in the city of New Bedford, Massachusetts, an area that enjoys a prominent role in American fishing and whaling history.
Clocking in at 106 feet, 11 inches in length on deck and a beam measuring 27 feet, 9 inches, the Morgan was and still is one of the larger vessels in the New England area. Her main truck is 110 feet above the deck and fully-rigged, and her sail measures in at 7,134 square feet.
But, lest you think the Seaport Museum is a one trick pony, there are lots of other sea worthy watercraft at the museum.
The Calypso stretches 23′ in length with a 7’4” beam with a 2’5″ centerboard up. It is made of fiberglass in an old French wooden boat design. Built in 2004 at Latitude 46 Yachts, Ile de Re, France, the Calypso has a 9 horsepower Yanmar diesel engine. Yeah I don’t know what that means either.
Calypso spent a decade racing and day-sailing along the South Shrewsbury and Navesink Rivers in New Jersey. After being damaged during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the boat was fully restored. The boat is on exhibit and used for museum programs.
Designed by Nathanael G. Herreshoff, Aida was built in 1926 by Herreshoff Manufacturing Co in Bristol, Rhode Island. Aida measures out to 33’6″ in length with a beam of 9’2″ and it has a draft of 3’1″.
Aida was owned by author Maynard Bray who used it to sail the waters of Maine. She is planked with Longleaf yellow pine and Douglas fir and is framed with white oak. She is fastened with bronze. She is available for charter.
While there are other boats both on exhibit and available for charter, some of them were not available for photography. I did find this Smallboat Exhibit.
Originally launched as George Stage, the Joseph Conrad, an iron hulled sailing ship, is also docked at the Seaport Museum. She served as a training ship for American and Denmark sailors, separately, and has been used as a yacht in the past. She 100’8″ on her deck, her bean is 25’3″ and her draft is 12′.
They were raising her sails when I began photographing the vessel.
Speaking of figureheads and masts, check out the figurehead on the Joseph Conrad.
You never know what you’ll see at the museum. Randomly, a man who works at the museum began singing on this boat.
This boiler is from an old ship that was once sea worthy.
There is also a replica of a Verande which was used in the planning of a much longer Viking longship. The Verande would be sea tested by towing, rowing and sailing to test its seaworthiness, ease of handling, safety and speed.
In the Stillman Building, there is a replica of a captain’s quarters for the 1883 ship Benjamin F. Packard. It felt pretty cool being able to access the living quarters of a captain without actually having to go out on a boat.
It looks cozy for sure. The articles in the last photo are the figurehead, a billethead, and some of the other items that would be on the ship.
This concludes the ships and boats installment of my blog posts from Mystic Seaport. Next, I will post about the buildings and some of the historical items on exhibit at the museum. Thank you for reading!
Outside of the Stillman Building, I saw these two adorable Longhaired Dachshunds.
Hours: Open daily, 9:00 – 5:00 (hours may vary depending on the season)
Cost:
Adult – $28.95
Senior (ages 65+) – $26.95
Youth (ages 4-14) – $18.95
Children (3 and younger) – Free
Parking: there is a free parking lot across the street from the Seaport Museum. There is also additional parking across the street from the parking lot for overflow
Handicapped Accessible: Yes, but not all of the buildings are accessible to the handicapped. Approximately one-third of our buildings have wheelchair-accessible entrances; interior access varies. The village’s unpaved roads are generally firm and stable suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. All roads are basically level with a few slight inclines located near the Children’s Museum, Treworgy Planetarium and Membership Building. (see link below for more info)
Highlights: living museum with character actors, boats, replicas of historic homes, figureheads, lighthouse replica, play area for children
Tips:
For an after museum viewing treat, Mystik Village, an open area shopping mall is a mere.9 miles away on Coogan Blvd
the museum’s main parking lot can fill up quickly if you don’t get there early. Additional parking can be found in the lots off Rossie St on the other side of the main parking lot
Once a major seaport, Mystic Seaport no longer functions as the busy hub of commerce and fishing or transportation. But, they have preserved some of the historical atmosphere while still incorporating modern technology.
Since Mystic Seaport is such a big attraction, I am posting my blog posts in three or possibly four installments. My first installment deals with the Viking ship display which was being featured at the museum as well as the figureheads, decorations and other sculptures at the museum.
During my visit, there was a Viking ship docked at the museum. Tours were being provided for a small charge.
By far, my favorite part of the museum is the figurehead museum. The dimly lit room, which made photography challenging, in the Wendel Building added to the mystique of these treasured works of art.
This scroll billethead figurehead is the oldest one in the museum. Many ships used these billetheads in lieu of figureheads because they were easier to carve and less expensive than the full sized figureheads.
There are several other figureheads in the museum which stood out to me.
This scary cat timber was used while lifting the anchor and keep it away from the ship so it would not damage the vessel.
Most of the figureheads are of people, though.
This figure titles Woman With A Comb. Although it’s hard to tell when some of these figureheads were made, it appears this figurehead was made during the 1820’s. This figurehead shows a hairstyle and clothing style that was popular during the 1820’s. Unlike some of the figureheads you may have seen previously where the figurehead leans forward and under the bowspirit, this figurehead stands upright, which was common until the 1840’s when they changed to the design that leans forward.
Woman With Roses has an interesting historical background. This figureheads, which resembles a portrait more than an actual figurehead, was originally called Belva Lockwood when it first came to the seaport museum. Belva Ann Bennet Lockwood, who this figurehead resembles, was a leader in the women’s suffrage movement during the late 1800’s. She was nominated for President of the United States in 1884 and 1888. Despite her historical significance and the likelihood that a ship would have been named after her, there are no records that show her name on any vessel.
Donald McKay is a figurehead made for the 1855 clipper ship Donald McKay. Named and designed after the famous ship builder and designer Donald McKay, this figurehead was broken off its vessel and stood unprotected, outdoors in the Cape Verdes islands off the coast of Africa. It was restored and repainted but it still shows the effects of being exposed to the conditions. The first figurehead for the vessel was lost at sea and this figurehead which replaced the original one was believed to have been carved by the ship’s carpenter while the ship was out at sea.
Seminole decorated the ship vessel of the same name for over 40 years. The figurehead, which was built by Maxon Fish & Co in 1865 in Mystic, CT, is believed to have been carved by James N. Colby and James Campbell. Colby and Campbell were prominent ship and sign carvers and decorators in the Mystic area from the 1850’s until 1877. Seminole, an offshoot of the Creek Confederation, means “separatist” or “runaway.”
Seminole carried cargo from New York to San Francisco and vice versa for over 20 years. It was captained by another Mystic, CT, native Joseph Warren Holmes. Holmes would go on to make 84 passes by Cape Horn, a record among captains at that time. Eventually, the Seminole ended up in the west coast lumber trade and was finally broken up at Port Adelaide, Australia, in 1904. The figurehead was salvaged and, 50 years later, Mystic Seaport acquired it.
Magdalena is the largest figure of the collection. Magdalena once adorned the bow of the 421 feet long British Royal Mail steam packet Magdalena which launched in 1889 in Glasgow, Scotland.
Iolanda is considered the second figurehead for the steam yacht of the same name. The industrialist Morton F. Plant of New York and Groton, Connecticut, had this figurehead adorned to his yacht when he made his 33,000 mile voyage to India, China, Japan and the Mediterranean.
After Plant, the figurehead had many more owners including a Russian Princess and the British Navy where she saw service in both World Wars.
The figured pictured above called Aleppo could not be identified since there are no records or photographs to match it to any vessel. I find this makes the figureheads even more mysterious and interesting.
This figurehead once adorned the Rhine shipping vessel which was built in Scotland in 1886. The harp and caduceus necklace are said to portray her as a classical figure rather than a portrait or national symbol. It is typical of the British sail and steam vessels of the late 19th century.
The Rhine transported laborers from India and China, jute from Calcutta and lumber from Boston. After being damaged by a fire after World War I, she was sold to a junk dealer for $925. Shen then became a barge in New York.
This ghost-like carving called White Lady is not a figurehead, despite its strikingly similarities to other figureheads. One of the reasons the museum was able to determine it is more likely a decoration or sign are because the posture is too erect. Figureheads were carved to fit the curving shape of the vessel’s bow. Another reason this was not a figurehead is that her outstretched arm would have been particularly vulnerable to damage at sea. Also, her elaborate scrollwork base is very unusual for a figurehead. Lastly, there is no evidence of the wooden or iron fastenings that would typically have held the carving to a ship’s bow. You know, the obvious reasons.
Cover your eyes! This unidentified figurehead which has been named Women With Goblet by the museum is said to have been the victim of well intentioned but overdone restoration. The flowers around the bae were reconstructed and the outstretched right arm with the goblet is not original. Typically, carvers made the arms close to the body because it reduced the possibility of damage by the sea.
This figured, The Great Admiral, was craved in the honor of and dedicated to Admiral David G. Farragut. Farragut was an Admiral in the United States Navy during the Civil War. In 1869, a new clipper ship, The Great Admiral, was commissioned in his honor with this figured on the bow.
The figurehead was eventually salvaged after the ship was wrecked off the coast of Oregon in 1906 and it eventually made its way all the way to Mystic.
Woman With Beads was carved in the classical British figurehead style. It is said to represent one of Victorian England’s literary or historic characters.
Abigail is believed to have been carved for the vessel of the same name which was named after the ship’s owner’s wide, Abigail Chandler. The figurehead was found after the ship crashed along the coast of Massachusetts in 1817.
Great Republic once adorned the largest American ship of its day, if only for a few weeks. This figurehead was once on Donald McKay’s clipper ship The Great Republic. Built in 1853, the 335 feet long The Great Republic is the largest cargo ship ever built in the United States.
The eagle, which was carved by S.W. Gleason & Sons of Boston, was on the ship for a few weeks when the ship was damaged by a fire. The eagle was then removed and kept by Captain Nathaniel Palmer of Stonington, CT. Captain Palmer had the burned out hull of The Great Republic removed and built into a smaller ship. A new bow carving was replaced on The Great Republic when it was repaired.
This bust of a woman is believed to be from the mid 19th century. Although it is not clear who the woman is portrayed in this bust, it is most likely a wife, girlfriend or relative of a captain or ship builder.
The Gray Man is a bust of a man from around the 1830’s. It really isn’t a bust. It was originally a figurehead on a ship. However, after it was removed from its original vessel, it was painted blue-gray and the base was altered which makes it look more like a marble statue than a figurehead
This carved gold leafed pine eagle pictured above is believed to be carved by William Rush but this claim has yet to be verified.
While this eagle with its arms extended may have been originally intended to be posted on the flat transom at the stern of the ship, it is also very similar to the décor on public buildings during the 1800’s. It is something that looks familiar to me as I have noticed decorations and sculptures like this on or inside older buildings while visiting the historic homes and area of New England.
This carving of a mountain sunrise, Mt Washington Lunette once adorned the steamship The Mount Washington, a steamship on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. This fan-shaped panel, called a lunette, was located at the center of one of the boxes that covered the steamboat’s paddle wheels. The half round paddle boxes served two purposes. They helped to protect the wheels from damage while shielding passengers from the turning wheels as well as the water that was thrown up by their blades.
There are other statues and decorations scattered through out the living museum.
These sculptures above, I believe of a sea mammal, were located outside one of the buildings.
This horsehead, located outside one of the historical homes, may have been used to tie the reigns of your horse.
This outdated statue was located outside a cigar and supply shop. It is displayed, I am sure, simply to give an accurate display of what the shops at that time looked like. The craftsmanship is impressive regardless.
The Carver’s Shop is one of the shops replicated to show how statues and other carvings were made and sold. The carving in the last photo (bottom right) may look similar to the cat carving at the figurehead museum.
These are two other cute decorations I noticed at the museum during my visit.
There were several dogs at the museum. Who knew dogs were so fond of the sea?
Since I am posting these blog posts as a series, I will post one set of photos for each dog or group of dogs I saw there.
I saw Brandi (On the left) and Colby (on the right) sitting by a bench with their guardian before I entered the museum. They are both 6 year old Chihuahua and Japanese Chin mix breeds.
See you soon with the next installment from my visit here!
Below is a short video of the figureheads and the restoration of figureheads from Mystic Seaport’s website.
Parking: there is parking available in the parking lot of the boat launch and there is limited parking on Point Grove Rd.,
Handicapped Accessible: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Highlights: boat launch, fishing, scenic
What better way to spend July 4th than at one of the busier lakes in Western MA?
Lake Congamond in Southwick, MA, seemed like the perfect place to spend the summer morning hours before our barbecue. But, mostly because I like to say and write Lake Congamond. What a fun name to say and what a fun lake to visit.
As the name suggests, Congamond Lakes is not one lake but, rather, a group of lakes at the border of Massachusetts and Connecticut. There are various boat launches. We stopped off at the boat launch in Southwick (MA).
With a maximum depth level of 35 feet, the Congamond Lakes are a popular place for boating or taking some other aquatic vehicle.
Ducks are common at the lake and they are so used to being fed they will sometimes eat from your own hand.
Congamond roughly translates to “long fishing place” and we saw quite a few people fishing.
The pier offers spots for fishing, places to view the water and the boats or a place to sit with a friend.
Dogs are allowed at Congamond Lakes. I’m just not sure they’re supposed to navigate the boats.
Some dogs prefer land to being on boats. Samurai is a Belgian Malinois.
Today’s featured link is Paul Samson’s Kayaking Blog. People on boats, or in this case a kayak, can get to places those on land can’t get to and Paul found some gems during his kayaking adventure. Paul’s blog post about Congamond Lakes can be found here.
Cost: Free (if you take a cruise out to see to the boats as I did fees would apply. It costs $35 for adults and $30 for seniors. Children and students also get reduced rates)
Parking: Due to the increase in visitors (they are expecting 2 million or more people) parking is limited. The closest public transportation station is South Station on the Red line of the MBTA (fares are reduced for this period of time while people visit the event)
Handicapped Accessible: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Highlights: tall ships from all over the world in Boston Harbor
Normally, when we see foreign boats in our harbor, it would be cause for alarm, especially given our past. But, this group of ships from all over the world came in peace.
Millions have been predicted to descend upon Boston as we celebrate Sail Boston 2017.
To avoid the crowds and get a better view of the ships, I decided to book a boat on Mass Bay Lines to cruise by these majestic ships. The boat was comfortable, wecould roam around the boat to get better views and we got so close to some of the freighters that we could wave and even shout to the crews on the boats. In fact, some people on our boat shouted greetings in the language of the crew based on their point of origin. I highly recommend taking a boat cruise if you plan on going to Sail Boston before the ships leave Thursday.
Our boat, The Freedom was docked at Rowes Wharf in the heart of the seaport district.
The views leaving the pier were beautiful.
The first ship we noticed was the Europa.
From Netherlands, the Europa has a steel hull and has a rig height of 33 meters. It was built in 1911.
When the ships did not have their sails up, it was difficult to identify them. Someone did announce the names of the ships as we passed by them. But, it was hard to hear him at times and it was also hard to keep track of them all. I think this is Thomas E. Lannon, a 93 foot schooner from Gloucester, MA. It was built in 1997.
This is the Esmeralda, the pride of the Chilean Navy. Check out the condor on the figurehead. To show just how different the ships look with and without their sails up, look at the photo below from the Sail Boston website. Big difference. Oh yeah, and their photography might be a little bit more professional. Just a little though.
The Oliver Hazard Perry from Newport, RI, is a baby compared to most of the other ships from the Tall Ships festival. It was built in 2016.
Again, it looks much more impressive with its sails raised.
Alert is a 70 foot schooner from Bailey Island, Maine. It has a wood hull and it was built in 1992. I was able to get the ship in various stages of dress.
The Adirondack III is an 80 foot schooner from Boston, MA. It was built in 1997 and it has a wood hull.
The Schooner Adventure is from Gloucester, MA. It was built in 1926 and it is 122 feet long.
When and If is another 80 foot schooner. It is from Key West, Florida and it was built in 1939.
The Formidable is a brigantine from Boston, MA. It is 72 feet long and was built in 2000.
I was hoping to see more ships, especially with their full sails on. But, I still think we saw a variety of pretty ships and boats. What really caught my eyes was the buildings and structures against the ships and boats in the harbor.
These kayakers may have had the best views. But, I think being dry on the boat was better for taking photographs.
Dogs like the tall ships also! Cole, an 8 year old poodle, and his mom came by to view the tall ships.
To see videos, photos and other posts that I do not include on my blog, please connect with me on Facebook!
Thousands of people converged on the Charles River last weekend to celebrate the 38th annual Dragon boats festival. Over 30 teams raced 39 foot Hong Kong along a 500 meter course (CYPN Storm won the Club Challenge, “A” Division).
These rowers were getting amped up for their next race.
While these rowers stretched for their next event.
This rower had just finished a successful race. The writing on his paddle translates to “Dragon Block.”
Kayakers also like to utilize the Charles for their own recreation and, for the most part, they were able to paddle around without interfering with the racers.
But, there weren’t just boats and kayaks at the event.
There were also cultural events.
Martial arts demonstrations
The grace and beauty of the participants were matched by the grace and beauty of the Charles River and Cambridge in the background. And there is lots of beauty along the Charles.
This spectator got a chance to try out a seat on a dragon boat. I think she liked it.
There were also a variety of musical and artistic performers.
Memorial Drive, where the event was located, is always closed part of the day on Sundays from April until November so that joggers, cyclists dog walkers and anyone else can move freely on the roadway without worrying about traffic. This road closure made it easy for for trucks to do business. There were dozens of food trucks and vendors stationed along the road.
Dogs are also welcome at the event.
Riley showed up with his ball.
Pitko, a Finnish name pronounced “Pete-co”, had a fun time at the festival.
Guy was all smiles as he watched the festivities.
“Princess”, a Himalayan cat, wasn’t afraid to show up at the race even if there dogs there.
Below are some videos of the race and cultural performers.
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Located in the center of town inconspicuously on the side of the road, Leverett Pond (also known as Echo Lake) is a 100 plus acre pond with amazing views and abundant wildlife. In fact, the wildlife is so abundant it threatens the pond itself. Beavers, specifically, seem to be clogging the dam at the nothern end. It costs the organization $20,000 to fix this issue and they do not receive funding from the town. So, the organization relies solely on donations. But, still, the Friend of Leverett Pond are keep working to solve this problem.
Despite the ecological issues they may face, the pond still looks beautiful.
The pond is popular with boaters and fishing enthusiasts. I saw two boats in the pond during the short time I was there.
During the winter, the pond is used by skaters.
While there were signs of wildlife, I was only able to see some fish in the water and a bird.
While the lake is a gem itself, one of the hidden treasures is the poetry box located on a tree by the lake. If you weren’t looking for it you might just miss it. Just to the left of the boat launch, the box is attached to a tree.
Inside the box sits a binder with poems, stories and memories left behind by visitors. There are also a few pencils in the box for people to leave their thoughts and poems. Some of the poems dated back to 2012. It was not only nice to see this collection of art. It was also nice to see it has been preserved and no one has stolen or disturbed the poetry box.
Behind the tree is a table for people to sit and read the binder or write their own addition to the binder. The poems and other writings ranged from the comedic to the serious. Some were written by children. Others were written by older people. Sometimes you could not tell who wrote the poem or what age they were.
Whether you’re a fisherman or fisherwoman, a boater or a poet, Leverett Pond is the perfect to spend the day.
Location: Pocahontas Rd, Gerrish Island, Kittery Point, ME
Cost: $10 per vehicle; pedestrians or bicyclists $5 adults/$1 under 12 (free during the off season)
Hours: Dawn to dusk for pedestrians; gates open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (presently closed for the season, opens in May)
Parking: The gate was up during my visit so everyone parked along the road in front of the entrance. When the parking is officially open, there are parking areas available.
Park Size/Trail Difficulty: 88 acres, easy trail difficulty
Handicapped Accessible: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Highlights: fort, trails, family friendly, play area for children, jetty, views of Kittery, lighthouse
As a disclaimer, since it had previously snowed in Maine and the weather turned much warmer, the trails were slushy and muddy and I didn’t have my boots on. So, I wasn’t able to walk the entire trail system at the park. However, the trails I did walk were pretty even and easy to navigate with a few slight inclines.
Named after John Gray Foster, a Major-General in the United States Army, Fort Foster Park has so much to offer the entire family. Kids (and a few adults) will love plating at the playground area, especially the playhouse with the tree growing out of it.
Or, if you’re a military history buff,you will enjoy the various military installations. This is one of the forts at the park.
The trees at Fort Foster State Park are particularly majestic.
The southernmost park in Maine, Foster Park also has a pier with wonderful views of the Piscataqua River and the Whaleback Lighthouse. To the right of the lighthouse isWood Island Life Saving Station on Wood Island. It looks like a bridge or perhaps another pier in the water to the left of the pier on the way to Eood Island. I loved how the clouds played with the landscape and gaave an ominous yet beautiful backdrop to the river. .
The tide was low and the sand was surprisingly firm,. So I was able to walk out pretty far and get some shots of the water and the landscape across the water. The Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse can be viewed across the river in the final photo.
The Piscataqua River, which flows into Portsmouth (NH), is a busy waterway for birds and boats. I saw quite a few of both in or above the river.
It’s funny how you see so many funny things on the trails at parks. Anyone lose a shoe or croc?
Fort Foster State Park is a dog friendly park. I saw many cute dogs at the park during my visit. But, as one visitor told me, during the spring and summer the park is packed with dogs. Since it was an unseasonably mild January day, I ran into a fair share of them.
While I was walking the path to the park, I saw a man throwing a ball to a cute dog. So, of course, I had to ask for a photo. Charlie, a 1 and a half year old Feist, is looking so intently at his dad because he wanted him to throw the ball to him.
As I walked along the park, I saw another beautiful dog in a beautiful setting. Omar, an 8 year old Greyhound, is a rescue who used to race. He is now retired but he still likes to run and play. And, as you can see by the photos, he loves his mom.
Missy, a Golden Retriever, and Ruby, a Flatcoat Retriever, (from left to right) both 6 months, are sisters. Because of the sharp, dark color of Ruby’s fur and the shadows from the sun, it was hard to pick up her features. But, trust me she is beautiful.
Thousands of people converged on the Charles River last weekend to celebrate the 38th annual Dragon boats festival. Over 30 teams raced 39 foot Hong Kong along a 500 meter course (CYPN Storm won the Club Challenge, “A” Division).
