Located in Rockingham County on the shores of New Hampshire, Portsmouth is a prime example of a historic New England city. First settled in 1630 and incorporated in 1653, Portsmouth was one of the first major settlements formed by English pilgrims, who named their new home after a city of the same name in the south of England. Once one of the busiest port cities in all of America, Portsmouth has a lot of history behind it and is now one of the most-visited New England cities, with people coming from far and wide to admire the beauty of this coastal location and witness its unique charms for themselves.
Harbor Cruise
© Michael Shake/stock.adobe.com
For a pure Portsmouth Harbor cruise experience, the classic Harbor Cruise is a great choice. This cruise lasts just over an hour and travels all around the historic harbor of Portsmouth. Passengers on board will be amazed and inspired as the captain narrates the journey, sharing fascinating facts and stories about the history of the harbor, making this tour both educational and entertaining. The cruise will pass by a range of unique landmarks including forts, lighthouses, and luxury residences, so be sure to bring your camera along to snap some photos and preserve those magical memories forever more.
Isles of Shoals Cruise
© alwoodphoto/stock.adobe.com
The Isles of Shoals Cruise is an option for people who want to cruise out of Portsmouth Harbor and see the local scenery. Not far from the coast of Portsmouth, the Isles of Shoals can be found. There's a lot of history behind these iconic islands, with each one having its own stories to tell involving everything from pirates to pilgrims. This Portsmouth Harbor cruise is quite a lengthy one, running for over two hours in total. As well as admiring plenty of man-made landmarks across the isles, you'll also get many great chances to spot some wildlife, including many different species of birds.
Evening, Sunset & Lights Cruises
© SeanPavonePhoto/stock.adobe.com
The Evening, Sunset & Lights Cruises offer something a little different for tourists and locals at Portsmouth Harbor. This cruise takes in the harbor in the early evening, as the sun is going down, giving you some stunning views of the glowing skies and shimmering waters. This tour features light narration and lasts for around an hour in total, and there's a really romantic, intimate atmosphere on board, perfect for couples. If you're planning a special date with a special someone, a Portsmouth Harbor cruise at sunset could be a great option.