Question 1

SIGNATURE CLAMBAKE MENU

Accepted Answer

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/92a73b_1e1c17564492434d86d6bf29b175ef3e~mv2.jpg

Question 2

Can I bring my own cake?

Accepted Answer

Yes!
Feel free to bring your own cake for your event! Please note that we will have paper goods available if you have any catered food service. If you have not ordered any other food for your event, please bring plates, knives, napkins, etc. Thank you.

Question 3

Is there a bathroom on board?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

Is there a bathroom on board?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

What should I do Before/After the cruise?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

PREMIUM CLAMBAKE MENU

Accepted Answer

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/92a73b_51c04674b04d43c6a02a1c189c5e625b~mv2.jpg

Question 7

What should I do Before/After the cruise?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

Can we arrive early to decorate the boat for our event?

Accepted Answer

Yes!
We certainly welcome you to come and decorate the vessel for your charter. However, we ask that you begin a half an hour prior to your departure time, and that no more than 2 people from your group are on the vessel at a time until we board your party. This is because some of our crew may still be getting on and off the boat to prepare for your event. Lastly, please do not use scotch tape to attach things to our vessels. Masking tape or any fasteners such as string or zip ties work well. Thank you.

Question 9

Is the parking close by?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Is the parking close by?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 11

How far in advance are we required to book a private charter?

Accepted Answer

Anytime!
We will always do our best to accommodate even the most spur-of-the-moment charters. If we have the availability, we will do our best to make it work for you. Please note that certain things such as food and beverage options may be limited at this time. Never hesitate to call or email us and check availability!

Question 12

AMERICAN BBQ

Accepted Answer

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/92a73b_d6062da1a5be49b3ad85adbffee00e3c~mv2.jpg

Question 13

APPETIZERS & DESSERTS

Question 14

Can I smoke on board?

Accepted Answer

No
Our vessels are non-smoking. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Question 15

May I choose to use my own outside caterer to provide food for my event?

Accepted Answer

No.
Unfortunately, we do not allow any outside catering. Please let us know if you are unsatisfied with our listed options and we will be happy to work with you to find something that fits your taste.

Question 16

Can I smoke on board?

Accepted Answer

No
Our vessels are non-smoking. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Question 17

Can I bring my own beer/alcohol/wine with me?

Accepted Answer

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!

Question 18

Can I bring my own beer/alcohol/wine with me?

Accepted Answer

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!

Question 19

Can I bring my own beer/alcohol/wine with me?

Accepted Answer

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!

Question 20

BEVERAGE SERVICE

Accepted Answer

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/92a73b_39764e02545b4f0ea414140fc72e9e1a~mv2.jpg

Question 21

Can I purchase giftcards?

Accepted Answer

Yes!
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Question 22

Can I purchase giftcards?

Accepted Answer

Yes!
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Question 23

What happens on the cruise?

Accepted Answer

Think of it simply as a tour!
Throughout the duration of our cruise, we will travel through the pristine and sheltered waters of the beautiful Essex River estuary. You will be exposed to the Great Marsh ecosystem, home to rare birds, wildlife, and stunning scenery. We commonly see locals lobstering, clamming, or fishing, sometimes catching a glimpse of their prized catch of the day. We will tell you all about any activity we see around us, and about large historic homes, the rich history of shipbuilding in Essex, and one of the oldest continually run farms in the United States. A great way for all ages to spend some time!

Question 24

What happens on the cruise?

Accepted Answer

Think of it simply as a tour!
Throughout the duration of our cruise, we will travel through the pristine and sheltered waters of the beautiful Essex River estuary. You will be exposed to the Great Marsh ecosystem, home to rare birds, wildlife, and stunning scenery. We commonly see locals lobstering, clamming, or fishing, sometimes catching a glimpse of their prized catch of the day. We will tell you all about any activity we see around us, and about large historic homes, the rich history of shipbuilding in Essex, and one of the oldest continually run farms in the United States. A great way for all ages to spend some time!

Question 25

What's the best way to book a charter?

Accepted Answer

Email us using our Our team will contact you ASAP.

Question 26

Can I book online?

Accepted Answer

Yes!
We are proud to be able to offer online ticketing. Please click the link below to book now!
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Question 27

Can I book online?

Accepted Answer

Yes!
We are proud to be able to offer online ticketing. Please click here (https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/essexcruises/items/calendar/2021/05/?flow=14535)to book now!

Question 28

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

24-hours
Essex River Cruises strictly holds to a 24-hour cancellation policy for all public cruises, unless otherwise notified.

Question 29

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

24-hours
Essex River Cruises strictly holds to a 24-hour cancellation policy for all public cruises, unless otherwise notified.

Question 30

What happens if it rains?

Accepted Answer

It depends!
We try our best to run every cruise, rain or shine. We do not call trips off when rain is predicted days in advance of a cruse. We find that often times when the weather calls for some rain, it will end up resulting in a couple of very brief showers, which still make for a very pleasant cruising experience. We will evaluate the situation as much as we can, but we wait as long as possible to decide to cancel a trip. However, if the weather is so inclement that either your Captain, and/or the United States Coast Guard deem it unsafe to travel, all paying customers will have their money refunded, or will be allowed to transfer those tickets to another cruise. We know the idea of a rainy day on the river isn't all that appealing, but just know you'll have a great time, rain or shine!

Question 31

What happens if it rains?

Accepted Answer

It depends!
We try our best to run every cruise, rain or shine. We do not call trips off when rain is predicted days in advance of a cruse. We find that often times when the weather calls for some rain, it will end up resulting in a couple of very brief showers, which still make for a very pleasant cruising experience. We will evaluate the situation as much as we can, but we wait as long as possible to decide to cancel a trip. However, if the weather is so inclement that either your Captain, and/or the United States Coast Guard deem it unsafe to travel, all paying customers will have their money refunded, or will be allowed to transfer those tickets to another cruise. We know the idea of a rainy day on the river isn't all that appealing, but just know you'll have a great time, rain or shine!

Question 32

What should I bring with me?

Accepted Answer

That depends!
This cruise can be enjoyed to its fullest by simply just bringing yourself with a great attitude! Some people choose to bring their cameras to capture their favorite moments of the cruise, or maybe some binoculars. Depending on the weather, you may decide you want sunglasses, sunblock, or an extra jacket. However, nothing is required.

Question 33

What should I bring with me?

Accepted Answer

That depends!
This cruise can be enjoyed to its fullest by simply just bringing yourself with a great attitude! Some people choose to bring their cameras to capture their favorite moments of the cruise, or maybe some binoculars. Depending on the weather, you may decide you want sunglasses, sunblock, or an extra jacket. However, nothing is required.

Question 34

How far in advance should we book our tickets?

Accepted Answer

Generally, anytime within two weeks.
Usually, we begin opening up cruises for reservations about 2 weeks prior to the cruise. Although many people have the fear that we will be full by the time they want to reserve, we generally don't reach max capacity until the day of the cruise, so even 2-3 days prior to the cruise should be plenty of extra time. However if you would like to secure your seats ASAP, we suggest periodically checking our online booking calendar until your cruise opens up.

Question 35

How far in advance should we book our tickets?

Accepted Answer

Generally, anytime within two weeks.
Usually, we begin opening up cruises for reservations about 2 weeks prior to the cruise. Although many people have the fear that we will be full by the time they want to reserve, we generally don't reach max capacity until the day of the cruise, so even 2-3 days prior to the cruise should be plenty of extra time. However if you would like to secure your seats ASAP, we suggest periodically checking our online booking calendar until your cruise opens up.

Question 36

What if I miss the boat?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately...
Tickets for our public cruises are non-refundable and non-transferable inside of our 24-hour cancellation window. If you get lost, stuck in traffic, or otherwise can't make it for any reason, you will lose your tickets. We highly suggest saving yourself the worry, and arriving in town early. There are enough restaurants, antique shops, and other things to do that can keep you occupied in the time leading up to the cruise. Thank you for your understanding in this matter.

Question 37

What if I miss the boat?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately...
Tickets for our public cruises are non-refundable and non-transferable inside of our 24-hour cancellation window. If you get lost, stuck in traffic, or otherwise can't make it for any reason, you will lose your tickets. We highly suggest saving yourself the worry, and arriving in town early. There are enough restaurants, antique shops, and other things to do that can keep you occupied in the time leading up to the cruise. Thank you for your understanding in this matter.

Question 38

Do I need to make a reservation?

Accepted Answer

No, but...
Reservations are highly recommended for many reasons. Most importantly, we have your information such as phone number and email address, so we are able to contact with any updates or questions. Also, we do have a 15 person minimum in order to run our public cruises, which can only be met by people making reservations, so by reserving you really may help the cruise go out. That being said, we do not discourage walk ons! We gladly will take you on board as long as the cruise is running and has availability, but it may be beneficial for you to call us and make sure the trip is running first. We often see folks who come down to walk on to a cruise, and are discouraged to find that there is no trip going out. Don't let it be you!

Question 39

Do I need to make a reservation?

Accepted Answer

No, but...
Reservations are highly recommended for many reasons. Most importantly, we have your information such as phone number and email address, so we are able to contact with any updates or questions. Also, we do have a 15 person minimum in order to run our public cruises, which can only be met by people making reservations, so by reserving you really may help the cruise go out. That being said, we do not discourage walk ons! We gladly will take you on board as long as the cruise is running and has availability, but it may be beneficial for you to call us and make sure the trip is running first. We often see folks who come down to walk on to a cruise, and are discouraged to find that there is no trip going out. Don't let it be you!

Question 40

Do you run every cruise every day?

Accepted Answer

We try!
We try our absolute best to run every cruise possible. That being said, we require at least 15 people with reservations to run a cruise. For several reasons, we do not always meet this quota, and therefore would not be running that particular cruise. We advise everyone with interest to check our website, call, or email us to check availability. Thank you for your understanding!

Question 41

Do you run every cruise every day?

Accepted Answer

We try!
We try our absolute best to run every cruise possible. That being said, we require at least 15 people with reservations to run a cruise. For several reasons, we do not always meet this quota, and therefore would not be running that particular cruise. We advise everyone with interest to check our website, call, or email us to check availability. Thank you for your understanding!

Question 42

Will we get wet?

Accepted Answer

Probably not.
Generally, we travel through a VERY calm and safe area. The only external movement the boat will receive is passing boat wakes from other boaters. There are very few natural waves or swells in this area because of Crane Beach acting as a great barrier for our beautiful estuary. In some instances however, due to passing boat wakes, a very small amount of water may trickle down the deck of the boat. Your Captain or crew may suggest that all passengers lift any of their belongings off of the floor, but is not something that will disturb your experience. All this being said, we are at the mercy of Mother Nature and other local boaters, so anything is possible. Because of this, we are not responsible for any water damage to personal belongings.

Question 43

Will we get wet?

Accepted Answer

Probably not.
Generally, we travel through a VERY calm and safe area. The only external movement the boat will receive is passing boat wakes from other boaters. There are very few natural waves or swells in this area because of Crane Beach acting as a great barrier for our beautiful estuary. In some instances however, due to passing boat wakes, a very small amount of water may trickle down the deck of the boat. Your Captain or crew may suggest that all passengers lift any of their belongings off of the floor, but is not something that will disturb your experience. All this being said, we are at the mercy of Mother Nature and other local boaters, so anything is possible. Because of this, we are not responsible for any water damage to personal belongings.

Question 44

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

Accepted Answer

Some...
We kindly ask that you refrain from bringing full size meals on board the vessel. We have snacks and drinks available in our ticket office, which you may purchase and bring on the boat. You may also decide to bring your own snacks or non-alcoholic beverages (but no coolers please). We do, however, invite you to enjoy your meal at our waiting area prior to the cruise.

Question 45

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

Accepted Answer

Some...
We kindly ask that you refrain from bringing full size meals on board the vessel. We have snacks and drinks available in our ticket office, which you may purchase and bring on the boat. You may also decide to bring your own snacks or non-alcoholic beverages (but no coolers please). We do, however, invite you to enjoy your meal at our waiting area prior to the cruise.

Question 46

Is it apropriate to leave gratuity?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
Gratuities are appreciated if you feel that you had exceptional service during your time on board, but they are by no means mandatory.

Question 47

Is it apropriate to leave gratuity?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
Gratuities are appreciated if you feel that you had exceptional service during your time on board, but they are by no means mandatory.

Question 48

Am I able to select my seat on board?

Accepted Answer

No
We do not give assigned seats when you purchase tickets. There are certainly enough seats for everyone on board, but you are not required to stay in them for the whole cruise. On the contrary, we encourage everyone to move around during the cruise to get different perspectives! Note that this means larger groups, especially on busier days, may not get to sit all together.

Question 49

Am I able to select my seat on board?

Accepted Answer

No
We do not give assigned seats when you purchase tickets. There are certainly enough seats for everyone on board, but you are not required to stay in them for the whole cruise. On the contrary, we encourage everyone to move around during the cruise to get different perspectives! Note that this means larger groups, especially on busier days, may not get to sit all together.

Question 50

What is the difference between the daily Narrated Sightseeing Cruises, and the Coffee and Muffin cruises?"

Accepted Answer

The coffee and muffins!
For the most part, these trips are very similar. The primary difference is the Coffee and Muffin cruise comes with complimentary coffee, muffins, water, soda, and juice on board. For just a few dollars more, the Coffee and Muffin cruises are held most Sunday mornings at 10:30, returning to the dock at noon.

Question 51

What is the difference between the daily Narrated Sightseeing Cruises, and the Coffee and Muffin cruises?"

Question 52

Is there storage available for my belongings?

Question 53

Is there storage available for my belongings?

Question 54

Where do I pick up my tickets? What do I need?

Question 55

Where do I pick up my tickets? What do I need?

Question 56

Are you handicap accessible?

Question 57

Are you handicap accessible?

Question 58

Are your tours child friendly?

Question 59

Are your tours child friendly?

Question 60

Notes for parents of children 3 & under...

Question 61

Notes for parents of children 3 & under...

Question 62

Can I bring my pet on board?

Question 63

Can I bring my pet on board?

Question 64

What if I or someone in my party needs boarding assistance?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Have a question about our cruises? See below.