Discovering the Geology of Salem Sound

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE: https://geologysalemsound.eventbrite.com

Explore the geological history of Salem Sound.

This 2.5-hour trip will include an overview of the geological history of Salem Sound. The trip includes a boat ride aboard Naumkeag and a walking tour of the shoreline of Misery Island. During this excursion, Dr. Lindley Hanson and Dr. Sara Mana will illustrate the extensive geologic history of the area which include igneous rocks ranging from ~610-200 million years that have been subsequently brittly deformed and whose topography expression has been modified by millions of years of erosion and more recent glaciations. Additionally, during our stop at Misery Island, we will have an opportunity to investigate some of the techniques used to determine the relative age of events and discuss how we know what we know. Come enjoy the sights of Salem Sound and learn more about the geologic history of this area.

Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970. 

Tickets

Please read all the information listed below before purchasing your ticket(s).

• Adults: $35
• Children (4-12 yr): $18
• Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! Not a member? Sign up here: essexheritage.org/membership

What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the trip?

About 3 hours round-trip.

What should I wear or bring with me?

• Rubber-soled shoes.
• Flip-flops not recommended; NO heels.
• Comfortable clothing.
• IMPORTANT: It’s colder on the water and there is no shelter from the weather on our open boat. Bring an extra layer!
• Pack water and a snack if needed.

Are there restrictions on who can go?

Yes. All passengers must be:

• At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
• Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

What is the trip like?

It is an adventure aboard Essex Heritage’s landing craft Naumkeag…

• Sit back and enjoy a narrated tour of Salem Sound from a geological perspective with Dr. Lindley Hanson and Dr. Sara Mana.
• Arrive at Misery Island for a short excursion on the beach.

What if it rains or is stormy?

Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it. You will be exposed to the elements going to and from the island.

What is the Cancellation Policy?

• If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
• If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled?

Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at 978-998-2188.

Is smoking allowed?

Smoking is NOT permitted on the boat or anywhere on the island at all.

Are there bathroom facilities?

The bathroom facilities are VERY limited. There are bathrooms at the Salem Ferry dock, but there are no bathrooms on the boat.

Questions?

Please call Essex Heritage’s Visitor Information Desk (located in the National Park Service Visitor Center) at 978-224-2036. The Visitor Information Desk is open seven days a week, from 9 AM-5 PM.

Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.