Description
Leave the mainland behind and explore the remote islands beyond the Cape. Spend a full day exploring two remarkable destinations in the Elizabeth Islands chain on a privately chartered boat tour. Cruise through Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay with lively commentary on landmarks, geology, wildlife, and local history.
Step ashore on historic Penikese Island and uncover its fascinating past while searching for colonies of rare tern species. After exploring Penikese, reboard the boat and cruise on to Cuttyhunk Island, where you'll have time to enjoy the village and scenic harbor. On Cuttyhunk, choose between two thoughtfully guided adventures: a longer, approximately 2-mile walk focused on birding and discovering the island's distinctive plants and wildlife, or a shorter 1-mile walk that highlights island stories, key landmarks, and unique natural history—with free time afterward to explore on your own.
The day also includes an informal meet-and-greet with Seth Garfield, founder of Cuttyhunk Shellfish Farms, and concludes with a relaxing ride back to the mainland.
When
- Sun, Sep 13, 2026 8:00 am - 5:15 pm
Who
Adults
Cost
- Adult Members $200
- Adult Nonmembers $240
Where
Location: Cuttyhunk and Elizabeth Islands, Gosnold
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Questions? Contact us:
- 508-362-7475 [email protected]
Instructors
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Mass Audubon Staff
Instructions
Participants should be able to balance well on both feet and maneuver around a moving vessel. Participants will be required to step up 2 feet, over the railing of the vessel; climb up and down a ladder; and step across decks to board at docks. Once on the islands the walking tours are roughly 1-2 miles round trip on irregular surfaces and paved roads. Basic head style bathrooms are available on the vessel during transit. There are no public facilities on Penikese. There is a public restroom available on Cuttyhunk.