boat tours of portsmouth harbour

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The Timeline

Portsmouth is a vibrant waterfront City packed with history. Home to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – the only place in the world to see the Royal Navy's historic past and present – as well as the majestic Porchester Castle, Spit Fort, historic HMS Victory and submarine HMS Alliance, hidden treasures including where The Mary Rose was raised and of course the stunning Emirates Spinnaker Tower. The Timeline outlines some amazing facts and figures about these wonderful landmarks. Seeing these iconic sites from the water gives you a truly unique perspective.

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We have created an interactive map to enable you to explore the fascinating Points of Interest on a Maritime Adventure, and across other areas of the Harbour and the City of Portsmouth.

This will enable you to view and plan your Adventure, for what we hope will be the experience of a lifetime onboard Wetwheels!

view the map

Wetwheels Solent

A 9 metre catamaran built by Cheetah Marine on the Isle of Wight, Wetwheels has twin Suzuki 325 HP outboard engines. She is equipped with the latest, state-of-the-art marine electronics provided by Raymarine. These include radar, chartplotter, VHF, auto-pilot and even chin-operated, joystick steering.

Adventures are led by Skipper Keith, and Rowena who who manages each trip from start to finish, including risk assessments, health and safety information and any questions you might have.

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The Charity

Wetwheels was founded by inspirational disabled yachtsman, Geoff Holt MBE DL . We now have boats across the UK and have welcomed many hundreds of people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy wonderful times onboard, in a fun, safe, and stimulating environment – building confidence and challenging self-perceptions, with the boat fully accessible to all.

Wetwheels is an inspiring organisation where perceived barriers are reassessed, new skills are learned and new-found independence is discovered. We look forward to welcoming you onboard.

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A special thanks to our sponsors and supporters, without whom none of this would be possible.

Isle of Shoals Portsmouth Harbor Cruise

From $239 pp, your tour at a glance.

Join us as we travel to the beautiful harbor town of Portsmouth, NH. Enjoy a tour of the city, meal, and cruise around the Isle of Shoals.

About This Tour

The Harbor Cruise - Join us aboard the Victorian style M/V Thomas Laighton and experience the fascinating legends of our legendary New Hampshire & Maine Seacoast. Little known but historically crucial, the legendary Isles of Shoals, located 9 miles off our coast, are an intriguing archipelago of 9 islands steeped with history.  As we glide through Portsmouth Harbor, we will see a unique working port with tugboats, tankers, the nation’s oldest and active naval yard, the closed castle-like prison- “the Alcatraz of the East”, our quaint Olde Port waterfront, a famous Grand Resort Hotel, 5 Historic Forts and 3 Lighthouses proudly guiding mariners safely through our waters. Our own Isles of Shoals historian will guide us through these same waters for the duration of the trip.

A Great Meal at the Portsmouth Gas Light Company with a little history to boot!!

Welcome to The Grill at the Gas Light. Built in 1837, this building is the former home of the city’s first utility, the Portsmouth Gas Light Co. Over the last 170 years, it has stood the test of time-including Portsmouth’s “Great Fires.” If you look closely on the eastern wall, you can still see original brick charred by the fires. Today the restaurant is appointed with rich textures of wood, brick and copper paying homage to the Gas Light Company’s role in Portsmouth’s storied history. In fact, every week they burn more than a cord of aromatic wood in the brick oven kitchen to prepare their unique wood-fired bistro cuisine. We hope you’ll feel as at home at the Gas Light as we do.  Once your lunch is completed take some time to browse the shops and sights within walking distance of the restaurant.

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Motorcoach Transportation

Tour of Martha’s Vineyard

Dinner on the Mainland

You will learn about the history and lifestyles of the islanders as you pass through Vineyard Haven. There will be free time for lunch and shopping in the historic whaling town of Edgartown. Complete your day on the island in Oak Bluffs. You may choose to stroll through “Cottage City” with its brightly painted cottages and decorative “gingerbread” trim.

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Strap on your sea legs on a Harbour tour

Portsmouth, hampshire.

Get closer than ever to the Royal Navy's ships on a 45 minute guided boat tour of Portsmouth Harbour.

Whilst visiting Portsmouth Historic Dockyard make sure you climb aboard the Portsmouth Harbour Tour Boat for the best views of Portsmouth Naval Base and the frigates, destroyers and helicopter carriers that are docked within.

You'll spot exciting sites along the away including the Roman grounds of Portchester Castle, the city of Gosport with its beautiful marinas, and buildings inside Portsmouth Naval Base that you wouldn't be able to see on land.

Harbour Tours run regularly throughout the year and can be picked up from Portsmouth Historic Dockyard or Gunwharf Quays, which means you can enjoy a spot of retail therapy, fantastic cuisine or hundreds of years of naval heritage straight off the boat.

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• Find out more about Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and plan your visit
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MARY SIOBHAN

HARBOUR TOURS

We offer cruises around Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard, so you can experience some of England’s finest naval history and attractions from the sea.

Take in the scenic views of the HMS Warrior, HMS Victory, HMS Queen Elizabeth, Gunwharf Quays, Spinnaker Tower, Spice Island and the sea forts, whilst listening to the skipper's interesting & informative commentary.

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You are here: Things to Do > Tours and sightseeing > Boat tours

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So much of Portsmouth’s story is linked to the sea – which makes a boat tour an absolute must-do for any visitors. Not only can you discover all about this central aspect of Portsmouth’s heritage, but you also get out to experience the thrill of the open water!

Depending on the tour you go for, you could get up-close to serving naval ships, head out to where the Mary Rose sank, visit some beautiful locations in the nearby area – or something else altogether. There’s plenty of choice, so don’t forget your sea legs!

Number of results: 10

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All abilities are welcome on Wetwheels' fully accessible boats for trips around the Solent.

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South Street, Gosport

A visit to Portsmouth is not complete without taking a leisurely sight-seeing cruise on board the Spirit of Portsmouth.

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Hayling Island

Enjoy a stunning boat trip around Hayling Island, with an intimate tour of the beautiful and sheltered natural harbour.

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Port Solent Marina, Portsmouth

Sunsail Events offers amazing corporate sailing days, team building activities and bareboat charters from its base in Port Solent Marina.

[email protected]

Fort Cumberland Road, Portsmouth

Whether you are an experienced angler, a novice angler, or maybe you would like to try sea fishing for the first time, then you have come to the right place.

HM Naval Base, Portsmouth

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is the UK’s premier destination for exploring 500 years of naval history.

[email protected]

Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth

A range of powerboat rides and experiences, from RIB and powerboat rides to private charters and cruises.

[email protected]

Dointhedo is a new charter boat, with modern facilities and undercover seating, that carries up to 12 passengers.

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Chartering from Portsmouth, Sea-Juicer is available for full day, half day or evening fishing trips, catering for all types of anglers from total beginers to the most experienced.

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Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth

Boathouse 4 runs Falklands Landing Craft F8 trips around Portsmouth Harbour.

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River, Harbor and Island Tours

Expertly narrated history tours of Portsmouth harbor, the Isles of Shoals and the New Hampshire Seacoast.

Isles of Shoals & Portsmouth Harbor Tour (aboard M/V Challenger)

  Please note this cruise is aboard our smaller vessel the M/V Challenger pictured above. 

No need to print your tickets.  We will have your name and number in your party and check off as you board.

Join us aboard the M/V Challenger for one of our expertly narrated Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth Harbor tours.   Experience the history and beauty of the seacoast and Isles of Shoals with a more intimate view from the Challenger.   

To maximize our time cruising the islands this tour does not stop at the Isles of Shoals.  No disembarking at Star Island. 

Cruise Schedule

• Aug 23, 2024 01:50 PM
• Aug 24, 2024 01:50 PM

Star Island Day Visit & Portsmouth Harbor Tour

This cruise utilizes both our vessels.  Outbound portion is on our smaller vessel the Challenger.  Inbound is aboard our larger vessel the Thomas Laighton.  Star Island visitor fee is included in ticket price.

Spend the day on Star Island. This cruise lets you experience our Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth harbor tour, the Star Island Walking tour and stay for the day on Star Island! You’ll spend approximately 3.75 hours exploring Star Island. Participation in the Walking Tour is optional. 

• Aug 24, 2024 09:20 AM
• Aug 30, 2024 09:20 AM
• Sep 01, 2024 09:20 AM

Star Island Walking Tour & Portsmouth Harbor Tour

Star Island visitor fee is included in ticket price.  This cruise allows approximately 1 hour on Star Island.

Enjoy our expertly narrated Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth Harbor Tour with the added bonus of a guided walking tour on Star Island! You'll hear the fascinating history and lore of Portsmouth Harbor as we navigate 10 miles of river and ocean out to Star Island, one of the first footholds for settlement in the new world. Disembark with our tour guide and explore Star Island. Your guide will walk you through over 400 years of rich history including the charting of the Isles in 1614 by Captain John Smith of Jamestown and Pocohontas fame who was given the isles as a reward for his efforts on behalf of the Crown of England. Hear the legend of the pirates Blackbeard and Captain Kidd, and the lady ghost of White Island. In the 1800's, resort hotels were built on Star and Appledore Islands and the Shoals became one of the most popular vacation spots on the New England Coast. You'll see the Oceanic hotel, which rivaled the grandest hotels of the time and is still in operation today. Your tour will take you through the replica of Gosport Village, a fishing outpost dating back to the early 1600s which includes the picturesque Stone Chapel and several cottages. You'll also see the tallest gravestone in the state of New Hampshire, the John Smith Monument, and the Caswell Cemetary. 

The guided walking portion of the tour is optional and you are welcome to explore the island on your own. 

• Aug 20, 2024 11:50 AM
• Aug 23, 2024 11:50 AM
• Aug 24, 2024 11:50 AM
• Aug 26, 2024 11:50 AM
• Aug 27, 2024 11:50 AM
• Aug 28, 2024 11:50 AM
• Aug 29, 2024 11:50 AM
• Aug 30, 2024 12:20 PM
• Sep 01, 2024 11:50 AM
• Sep 08, 2024 01:20 PM

Star Island Walking Tour & Portsmouth Harbor Tour (aboard the Challenger)

This cruise is aboard the M/V Challenger pictured above.  Star Island visitor fee is included in ticket price.  This cruise allows approximately 1 hour on Star Island.

     Enjoy our narrated Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth Harbor Tour with the added bonus of a self guided walking tour on Star Island! You'll hear the fascinating history and lore of Portsmouth Harbor as we navigate 10 miles of river and ocean out to Star Island, one of the first footholds for settlement in the new world.  In the 1800's, Resort hotels were built on Star and Appledore Islands and the Shoals became one of the most popular vacation spots on the New England Coast. You'll see the Oceanic hotel, which rivaled the grandest hotels of the time and is still in operation today. You may walk through the replica of Gosport Village, a fishing outpost dating back to the early 1600s which includes the picturesque Stone Chapel and several cottages. You'll also see the tallest gravestone in the state of New Hampshire, the John Smith Monument, and the Caswell Cemetary.

• Aug 21, 2024 12:20 PM
• Aug 22, 2024 12:20 PM
• Aug 25, 2024 09:20 AM
• Aug 25, 2024 01:20 PM
• Aug 31, 2024 12:20 PM
• Sep 02, 2024 09:20 AM
• Sep 06, 2024 12:20 PM
• Sep 07, 2024 12:20 PM

Sunset Acoustic Harbor Cruise

Catch the sunset from the best deck in town; aboard the Thomas Laighton.  Have a drink and unwind while listening to live acoustic entertainment.  A perfect end to your week.

BAGS (including large purses) and BACKPACKS ARE NOT ALLOWED ONBOARD. 

CASH ONLY BAR!

• Aug 25, 2024 06:20 PM
• Sep 01, 2024 05:50 PM

Extended Star Island Walking Tour

Enjoy our expertly narrated Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth Harbor Tour with the added bonus of a guided walking tour on Star Island! You'll hear the fascinating history and lore of Portsmouth Harbor as we navigate 10 miles of river and ocean out to Star Island, one of the first footholds for settlement in the new world. Disembark with our tour guide and explore Star Island. Your guide will walk you through over 400 years of rich history including the charting of the Isles in 1614 by Captain John Smith of Jamestown and Pocohontas fame who was given the isles as a reward for his efforts on behalf of the Crown of England. Hear the legend of the pirates Blackbeard and Captain Kidd, and the lady ghost of White Island. In the 1800's Resort hotels were built on Star and Appledore Islands and the Shoals became one of the most popular vacation spots on the New England Coast. You'll see the Oceanic hotel, which rivaled the grandest hotels of the time and is still in operation today. Your tour will take you through the replica of Gosport Village, a fishing outpost dating back to the early 1600s which includes the picturesque Stone Chapel and several cottages. You'll also see the tallest gravestone in the state of New Hampshire, the John Smith Monument, and the Caswell Cemetary. After your walking tour you'll have time to visit the giftshop, bookstore, and snack bar in the hotel if you'd like. 

The guided walking portion of the tour is optional and you are welcome to explore the island on your own. This cruise allows approximately 1.5 hours on Star Island. 

• Aug 31, 2024 08:50 AM

Isles of Shoals & Portsmouth Harbor Tour

Join us aboard the M/V Thomas Laighton for one of our expertly narrated Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth Harbor tours. Experience the history and beauty of the seacoast, Portsmouth harbor and the little known, but historically crucial, Isles of Shoals.

This cruise does not disembark passengers at Star Island. 

• Aug 21, 2024 01:50 PM
• Aug 22, 2024 01:50 PM
• Aug 31, 2024 02:20 PM
• Sep 10, 2024 01:50 PM

Star Island Extended Day Visit

Spend the day on Star Island. This cruise lets you experience our Isles of Shoals and Portsmouth harbor tour, the Star Island Walking tour and stay for the day on Star Island! You’ll spend approximately 5 hours exploring Star Island. Participation in the Walking Tour is optional. 

Special Events

Special events are even more magical on the M/V Thomas Laighton!

Party Ships

Come join us on the best Party Ship on the Seacoast! The M/V Thomas Laighton steams through the Piscataqua River and Portsmouth Harbor on this 21 and over party ship. 

The best party on the Seacoast is aboard the M/V Thomas Laighton!   This cruise is 21+ and a valid state issued photo ID is required. Bags are subject to search. 

BAGS (including large purses) and BACKPACKS ARE NOT ALLOWED ONBOARD.

BARS ARE CASH ONLY!! ATM available prior to boarding the vessel. 

• Aug 20, 2024 07:00 PM
• Aug 30, 2024 07:30 PM
• Aug 31, 2024 07:30 PM

Industry Night!! featuring Truly Seltzer and Codigo 1530 Tequila

Do you work on the weekends?  Monday is the new Friday on Thomas Laighton!  Come join us for Industry Night sponsored by Truly Spiked Seltzer and Altos Tequila. 

The best party on the Seacoast is aboard the M/V Thomas Laighton! Dance to great music by local bands and DJ's while you enjoy drink specials, theme nights, good company, and amazing scenery. CHEERS! T his cruise is 21+ and a valid state issued photo ID is required.  

BARS ARE CASH ONLY!   ATM available prior to boarding the vessel. 

• Aug 26, 2024 07:00 PM
• Sep 09, 2024 07:00 PM

The M/V Thomas Laighton is one of the most unique venues available for your special event. Our 300 capacity passenger vessel truly is a "floating function facility" that can adapt to any type of special event from weddings and rehearsal dinners to company outings and celebratory parties. The best part about chartering our vessel (besides the breathtaking views and tremendous service) is that the boat and all of its amenities are yours alone.

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The Best Boat Trips in Portsmouth

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Being an island surrounded by the sea, Portsmouth boat trips are some of the best along the UK Hampshire coast. Most boat trips and tours depart from the conveniently located Gunwharf Quays Marina .

Steeped in history, it has so much to teach you from the water. Its heritage is just waiting to tell you its story! Explore stunning locations whilst enjoying the benefits of being out on the water.

Boat trips allow you to unplug. In a digital world, stress, insomnia and depression have been connected to our inability to power down. Boat trips create bonding experiences with family and friends, as well as being the perfect reason to unplug, even if it’s just for a few hours.

The lasting memories you can make whilst out on the boat are priceless. Broaden your range of experiences and try or explore something new. A boat trip is an adventure; hopefully, if the sun is shining in Blighty, you’ll get a good dose of Vitamin D too!

All of these boat trips around Portsmouth are available to the public – unless otherwise stated that private charters are available.

Looking for a bit more independence? Find the best boat hire in nearby Southampton where there are more opportunities to hire your own, and start planning your next adventure.

Portsmouth Boat Trips

Here’s what to expect from this best of list:

Onboard RIBs

Portsmouth harbour tours, gosport ferry.

• MiniPort Gunwharf Quays

WetWheels Solent

• Portsmouth Fishing Charters

Wightlink and Hovertravel

Seeking an ultimate adrenaline rush on your Portsmouth Harbour boat trip? Check out Onboard RIBs for an affordable, exciting and family friendly experience. Go on a 30 minute blast visiting the Mary-Rose Wreck Site. Take the 45 minute tour and thunder over to the Solent Forts for some serious high-speed fun. Or how about the 3 hour tour taking in views of Cowes and the Isle of Wight, exploring local sights and enjoying some of the fastest action on The Solent.

Onboard RIBs offer a number of different private charters for boat trips around Hampshire.

Booking is recommended for these powerboat rides, however you can also check with their booking office outside Gunwharf Quays for availability.

Gosport Ferry Portsmouth Harbour Tours

During summer periods and school holidays, Gosport Ferry, the popular and time-saving ferry from Gosport to Portsmouth, offers their own Portsmouth Harbour Tours.

These great value for money hour long boat trips are perfect for exploring the harbour with some informative commentary onboard. Meander into marinas, across the harbour waters, past Old Portsmouth and the Spinnaker Tower, into the naval ship base and beyond. Being on one of the larger vessels available, there is plenty of space inside and outside for your own comfort.

Find out what we thought of this boat trip in Portsmouth in our review.

@travelwithnoanchor Gosport Ferry Harbour Tour around Portsmouth Harbour, UK… well recomended, especially for £10! Educational yet leisurely and a welcome breeze on a day pushing 30 degrees! 🥵 #gosportferry #gosport #portsmouthharbour #portsmouth #sunnyday #boattrip ♬ FEEL THE GROOVE – Queens Road, Fabian Graetz

This is one of the best educational boat trips in Portsmouth. Gunwharf Quays Marina and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard are perfectly located to start this popular experience. This Portsmouth Harbour boat trip lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, whilst cruising around the Naval Base to view warships past and present. It’s a great boat trip that lets you soak in the Harbour vibes while learning about its history.

If you are into the history of Portsmouth and its Harbour, why not make a day of it at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard . Discovery the HMS Victory, HMS Warrior 1860, HMS M.33, Mary Rose Museum, Royal Navy Submarine Museum, National Museum of the Royal Navy, Boathouse 4 and the Dockyard Apprentice. Part of the story is located in Gosport, which you’d need to jump on the Gosport Ferry to reach – another favourite boat trip in Portsmouth!

Whilst being less than a 5 minute boat trip, Gosport Ferry is worth the quick sail to see Portsmouth from a different perspective. Once you’ve exhausted everything on the Portsmouth side and at Gunwharf Quays, head over on this commuter link to explore the seaside town of Gosport . Or, do it the other way round as car parking in Gosport is a lot cheaper than in Portsmouth city centre!

Once in Gosport, take a walk along one of the best beaches in Portsmouth – Stokes Bay Beach. Check out the maritime memorials, or if you are looking for some water fun, you’ll find Stoked Watersports right on the waterfront.

Miniport Gunwharf Quays

Come afloat on these mini boats!

The kids will absolutely love MiniPort, right on the waterfront outside Gunwharf Quays. This cute little boat trip is in a self-drive electric mini watercraft! They are great fun for all the family and can fit up to 5 people.

Mini Captains (children) are allowed to be the skipper of the boat as long as they are accompanied by a responsible person. Each experience lasts about 12-15 minutes. This can sometimes be longer during quieter periods. Buoyancy aids are provided for everyone and must be worn at all times.

No need to book. Just turn up on the day.

Why shouldn’t everyone be able to experience the joy of Portsmouth boat trips and motorboating? Wetwheels is a custom-built, fully accessible motorboat. They help achieve aspirations, improve confidence and make memories that last a lifetime by helping hundreds of people of all ages overcome the disadvantages of their disability and lead more enriched lives.

WetWheels offers both public and private boat rides around Portsmouth and Hampshire. From exploring Portsmouth Harbour and highlighting things that can’t be seen from land to boat trips up the Beaulieu River and beyond.

This is an incredible experience offered by a not-for-profit foundation based on volunteers’ help and time. Now that is worth a smile!

Fishing Charters from Portsmouth

Fancy your luck (or skills) with some sea fishing? There are a number of fishing charters that depart from the Portsmouth area. Take a trip from a half day to a full week away for the ultimate deep sea fishing experience with a chance to catch your “fish of a lifetime”. These charters also offer a number of other services including Harbour Tours, Private Charters, Team Building events and more.

Check out a few here:

• Kelley’s Hero Fishing Charters
• Sea-Juicer Fishing Charters
• Dointhedo Charters

Boat Trips from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight

Portsmouth boat trips can’t be discussed without mentioning these popular Isle of Wight ferries. We reckon these are one of Portsmouth’s most exciting boat trips, purely based on their destination !

Hovertravel offers a 10 minute ferry flight to Ryde Beach on the Isle of Wight from Southsea Beach, Portsmouth. They provide the fastest ferry route across The Solent and are the world’s only year-round passenger hovercraft service. Grab a day ticket and head over to the beautiful island to explore.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Blue Mind Journey (@bluemindjourney)

Easy onward travel connections are available with the Hoverbus in Portsmouth, bus and train connections at Ryde, and large car parks at both terminals.

Wightlink is a major foot passenger and car sailing ferry to the Isle of Wight. Travel from Portsmouth to Ryde, either on foot or by bicycle, with the Wight Ryder service, which takes only 22 minutes! Travel by car and take the Portsmouth to Fishbourne route, which takes 45 minutes on this slower vehicle ferry. There are many crossings from early morning to late at night, so it’s the perfect boat trip to start a day (or longer!) exploring the beautiful Isle of Wight.

Portsmouth is also home to Brittany Ferries sailings to Caen, St Malo and Cherbourg in France, as well as Bilbao and Santander in Spain. Technically we could call this a boat trip from Portsmouth, but we reckon that would be pushing it slightly!

Do you have a favourite boat trip in Portsmouth? Love travelling from Portsmouth by boat? We’d love to know in the comments below.

Feature image credit: Onboard RIBs, Portsmouth Harbour Boat Trip

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Downtown Portsmouth

Portsmouth harbour trail tours, tour historic portsmouth.

Portsmouth Harbour Trail Tour was named a Yankee Magazine “Best of New England Editors’ Choice.” Explore New Hampshire’s Best Walking City on foot!

Portsmouth boasts 400 years of history, culture, architecture, and scenic beauty, and you can see much of it along the Portsmouth Harbour Trail. Join a walking tour and let our knowledgeable guides highlight the historic homes, trademark tugboats and working waterfront, vibrant Market Square, colorful Prescott Park, and more.

You’ll hear stories about the rich and famous to the humble merchants and madams who had thriving businesses here. You may also hear about the brewers and politicians, fishermen and boat builders that made Portsmouth the talk of the nation in their day. You’ll find that the people who were born here, worked here, or moved here over the past three centuries weave a colorful cultural tapestry. Portsmouth was, and still is, a town full of characters.

All tours depart from the Market Square Information Kiosk at 1PM, and last approximately 90-minutes. Total distance walked is around one mile. Tours are select Thursday & Saturdays.

Prices: Adults $15; Seniors & Students $12; Kids 8-14, $10; Under 8, Free.

For more information, please contact the Chamber at  603-610-5510  or [email protected] .

Private group walking tours available year-round by reservation ($75 minimum). Please call the Visitor Services at 603-610-5510  for more information.

Guided Tours

Guided walking tours of the historic Portsmouth Harbour Trail depart from the Market Square info kiosk Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Private group walking tours are available year-round by appointment. Please call for rates and details.

About the Portsmouth Harbour Trail Tour

In 1623 Portsmouth attracted English settlers drawn by the commercial potential of the region’s fish, timber and deep-water Piscataqua River. From the strawberry-strewn waterfront banks came the community’s original name, Strawbery Banke. The name was changed in 1653 to Portsmouth.

During our tour of the city we will hear of the time when Portsmouth was the capitol of the state of New Hampshire; why we have so many brick buildings; who were the Sons of Liberty, and what role did they play in our early history? There are seventeen Athenaeums in the United States – learn how ours came to be and the story behind this historic building.

You will learn of the early uses of the historic buildings we pass, including the warehouses that stored materials that made us a maritime great.

At the waterfront see the tug boats that have plied the treacherous Piscataqua River for over 150 years and still guide traffic along the river, one of the fastest flowing navigable rivers in North America.

You will pass by St. John’s Episcopal Church and hear about the many historic artifacts that are housed within, such as a Vinegar Bible (an original Book of Common Prayer) pipe organs, stained glass windows of note, and hear interesting stories of people that worshipped within these walls (hint: President Washington worshipped here as well as the Patriot, Daniel Webster.)

A stop at Memorial Park, you will hear the history of the adjoining area which is now the location of one of Portsmouth’s “crown jewels” Prescott Park, and Portsmouth’s largest tourist attraction, Strawbery Banke Museum (and the women who helped them bring it about).

As we begin our return to Market Square, let us stop and admire the Warner House, home to a Royale Governor, Benning Wentworth. The family owned this magnificent mansion for over two hundred years but at one time, it was slated to be turned into a gasoline station. Fortunately our fore bearers were farsighted enough to not let that happen!

End your tour by sitting at one of our great coffee houses, enjoy some of the best brews in town and plan tomorrow’s adventure: perhaps Strawbery Banke Museum, Prescott Park or one of the ten historic homes, each with its own character and elegance.

Come back soon and ofte

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Private Events

Schedule Your Event

Planning a party or function? Consider a private boat ride aboard the 49 passenger M/V Heritage!

From small gatherings to large functions, we can help make your event memorable and easy to plan.

A Heritage charter is ideal for:

• Family Reunions
• Company Outings
• Field Trips
• Cocktail Parties
• Wine Tastings
• Rehearsal Dinners
• Surprise Birthday Parties

Consider the boat exclusively yours!

Customize your event with our on-premise services.

• Full service bar, snack bar and/or catering company referrals
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