Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light

Explore Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light Station

Come join naturalist and wild foods enthusiast, Russ Cohen on a special edible excursion out to Bakers Island Light Station, a historic property owned by Essex Heritage.

This 4-hour special trip includes the boat ride aboard Naumkeag and a walking tour of the property with expert Russ Cohen pointing out special species along the trails including the kind you can snack on! Before departing for the main land, enjoy sumac-ade (a natural alternative to Kool-Aid) and a wild goodie or two made by Russ Cohen himself! The wild edibles tour includes over 3 dozen species of edible wild plants that have existed on the island for some time. Also expect to encounter at least six of the additional native wild edible species that were planted last summer.

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: $39
• Children (4-12 yr): $25
• 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 4 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!
• Wild edibles may be available to nibble and sip on during this adventure but, it won’t be a full lunch. There will be a scheduled break for lunch, so please pack a sandwich or snacks, plus water, if you will need it.

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…

• Arrive at our stone beach.
• Disembark and follow special host Russ Cohen as he points out the native and invasive species that inhabit the 10 acres owned by Essex Heritage.
• Enjoy an hour and half of guided discovery and explore the edible options while learning about living off the grid.
• Please Note: The lighthouse cannot be climbed at this time.

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.
• If the boat leaves the dock but cannot land on the island: In the very unlikely event that the boat arrives at Bakers Island but cannot disembark passengers, you will still have experienced a pleasant boat ride and harbor tour. In this case, you will receive a refund for 50% of your ticket cost(s). (Only full refunds will be given if the boat doesn’t leave the dock.)

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. Once on the island, there is only one composting toilet facility at the Light Station.

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 Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM-4 PM.

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