All trails are currently CLOSED (live animal exhibit trail and hiking trails).
Person looking through binoculars at wildlife on Squam Lake

Cruise with a Naturalist

Cruise Schedule

July 2 - October 10: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3:00 p.m.

Cruise Description

Learn about the rich natural history of Squam Lake with an experienced naturalist.

See Common Loons and Bald Eagles and view their nesting sites. Watch for other wildlife too - you never know what you might see amid Squam’s scenic mountain ranges, charming islands, and quiet spots. The route is chosen to maximize wildlife observations; see something different on every memorable trip.

Cruise Rates

Cruise Pass Fees (2024) Member Rate Non-Member Rate
Adult $28.00 $32.00
Senior $26.00 $30.00
Youth (Age 15 and under) $24.00 $28.00
Not recommended for children under 5. Squam Lake Cruises are held on small, covered pontoon boats holding approximately 20 passengers. They are narrated tours and passengers must remain seated for the duration of the cruise. Children age 12 and under must wear a life jacket per New Hampshire State law.    

Cruises are 90 minutes long and on canopied pontoon boats. Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your cruise departure time. New Hampshire State law requires youth ages 12 and under to wear a life jacket on board.

Advance reservations are required.

Space on all cruises is limited. Everyone must make advance reservations and payment. We do not hold seats or maintain waiting lists.

Cancellations:

Cruises may be cancelled if there are fewer than four passengers registered. Cruises may be cancelled at any time due to weather, unsafe conditions, or other circumstances. If we cancel a cruise we will contact passengers to reschedule on another date or to issue a full refund. If passengers must cancel, please call the Science Center at 603-968-7194 x 7 to reschedule or request a full refund. Passengers must cancel at least 90 minutes before the start of the cruise to receive a refund.

Parking:

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is located on Route 113 in Holderness, NH. Park in Science Center parking lots and follow the walking path across Route 113 to Lake Cruise Headquarters. Please arrive 15 minutes before your cruise departure time. Find us on Google Maps

Be Prepared:

Please arrive for your lake cruise with appropriate clothing for current weather conditions and remember that it is often cooler on the water. We recommend layers with rain/wind jackets, hats, and gloves if needed.

Discover Squam
Discover Squam Cruise on Squam Lake
Bald Eagle Adventure
Bald Eagle in nest on Squam Lake
Loon Cruise
Loon with Chick
Cruise with a Naturalist
Viewing wildlife through binoculars on a Squam Lake Cruise
Private Charters
View of Mt Chocorua from Squam Lake
Group Tours
View from Squam Channel entering Squam Lake
top