Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light
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.
Please Note:
- The lighthouse cannot be climbed at this time.
- The rest of the island aside from the 10 acre Light Station is privately owned and all visitors must stay within the 10 acre boundaries.
- Guests will not be permitted to visit the Assistant Keeper’s House; that is only accessible to Essex Heritage Members who have booked an overnight stay.
- Please read through all the FAQ’s and our Cancellation Policy before purchasing tickets.
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets:
- Adults: $40
- Children (4-12 yr): $25
- Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)
What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trip? About 4 hours round-trip
Are there restrictions on who can go? All passengers must be:
- At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
- Capable of negotiating the boat ramp without assistance.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and rubber-soled shoes. Flip-flops are not recommended; NO heels. IMPORTANT: It’s colder on the water and there is no shelter from the weather on our open boat. Bring an extra layer!
What should I bring?
Do not bring more than you want to carry; nothing can be left/stored on the boat while we are disembarked. Items left on the Island cannot be retrieved until the next trip which could be anywhere from 2-5 days. Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.
Is there food or drinking water?
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, if you think you will need it, and make sure to pack water.
Are there bathroom facilities?
The bathroom facilities are limited. There are bathrooms at the Salem Ferry dock, but there are no bathrooms on the boat. Once on the island, there are only composting toilets.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is NOT permitted on the boat or anywhere on the island at all.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are NOT permitted on our boat, with the exception of certified service animals defined by Title II and Title III of the ADA.
Where do I park?
While there are free parking spots at Blaney Street parking is NOT always guaranteed so plan accordingly. (South Harbor Garage at 10 Congress Street is the next closest public lot but they charge an hourly rate, and are a 1/2 mile walk to the dock.)
What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it.
Is there a bathroom onboard?
There are no bathrooms on the boat, but there are restrooms at the Salem Ferry Visitor Center which can be used directly before and after the tour.
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.
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.
