Visiting Thacher Island
 
Thacher Island is located about a mile offshore of Rockport, Massachusetts. Rockport is a small seacoast town about 40 miles north of Boston. It can be reached via Rt. 128 north. Although the island may be viewed from the shore it is best to actually go there. The best way to do that is by becoming a member of the Thacher Island Association.

You may then join us each Wednesday morning at 9AM or Saturday morning from 9AM till 12 Noon starting in July and running thru the end of August (weather permitting) aboard the Thacher Island launch for an exciting 30 minute ride out to this magnificent historical island. You must make reservations in advance by calling 978-546-7697. Seats are limited because the Thacher Island launch only accommodates 15 passengers. We only make two trips on Saturday, 9AM and again at 10AM we return about 2 hours later.
 
Other ways to get there are by kayak which you can rent in Rockport or by your own boat. There is no dock on the island, only a ramp, which can only be used by the Association's launch.

We make available 2 guest moorings adjacent to the ramp about 50 yards offshore. You must call the keeper on the island in advance to tell him you are coming at 617-599-2590. Unless you plan to swim in from your boat, bring a skiff which you can land on the ramp. Only small skiffs and kayaks are allowed to land on the ramp.
There is much to see and do on our island…[MORE]

The Thacher Island launch ready to land on the boat ramp.

Kayaks landing on the Thacher Island Ramp