Things to Do

Crane Beach · cruises, tours & watersports

Kayak
whale watch

The Harbor

tap a boat

Ipswich River Canoe & Kayak

Kayak

Paddle the Ipswich River from the town landing -- through the Great Marsh, past Crane Beach and into the tidal channels behind the barrier. The best way to see the estuary ecosystem.

11:00 AM

Next boat

2-4 hrs

Trip

$40

From

Departures · Essex River Basin

LIVE CLOCK

Dock wisdom

The Essex River boat tours leave from Essex town landing on Southern Ave -- great for non-paddlers who want to see the Great Marsh from the water.

Plum Island Sound is best at high tide for kayaking -- call Plum Island Kayak at (978) 462-5510 for conditions and rentals.

Gloucester whale watches run from the state fish pier. The 7 Circle charter is well regarded -- book online in summer.

The Ipswich River is a quieter paddle than the ocean side -- good for families and beginners, with the Crane dunes in the background.

fair winds

Operators are real local fixtures — confirm current sailing times and prices with each operator before you go. Countdowns run on the real local clock and the sunset sail time is computed from tonight’s actual sunset.