lewis bay boat tours

Hyannis Harbor (Lewis Bay) Lighthouse

Hyannis, Massachusetts Built in 1849

Located on the shore near the entrance to Hyannis Harbor. Privately Owned.

Latitude: 41° 38' 10" N Longitude: 70° 17' 19" W

Historic Stories:

As Hyannis was becoming a busy fishing port, the demand for a lighthouse was needed to guide mariners around the treacherous waters located southeast of Hyannis Harbor.

The first light was displayed as a lamp hung in a window of a shack for a number of years by Daniel Hallett before a lighthouse was built in which he was appointed as Keeper in 1849. This only lasted for a couple of years since he was replaced for political reasons, which occurred quite frequently in those days.

From 1871 to 1899 John Lothrop and his son Alonzo Lothrop tended the light spanning nearly three decades of family service.

Captain John Peak, former commander of a lighthouse tender and part of a family dynasty of local keepers at Point Gammon, and Bishop and Clerks Lights, assumed Alonzo’s post at Hyannis Harbor Light until 1915, when failing health forced his retirement. During Peak’s time at Hyannis, local kids would come to the lighthouse for sailing lessons and help polish brass and other chores.

The lighthouse is listed as Lewis Bay Lighthouse, but is commonly referred to nowadays as Hyannis Harbor Light.

Places to Visit Nearby:

Along with surrounding towns the area provides a large selection of cultural events and festivals, plenty of nightlife and music, museums, and miles of beaches in the area, like Craigville Beach. You can also go whale watching from Barnstable, just north of Hyannis

There are a variety of museums to explore like the Maritime Museum ,  the John F. Kennedy Museum , the Toad Hall Classic Sports Car Museum, various art museums like the Cahoon Museum of American Art , or visit the Heritage Museums and Gardens , in nearby Sandwich.

The Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra performs in Cape Cod's Barnstable Performing Arts Center, Cape Cod's premiere concert hall in Hyannis.

For something a little different, visit the Cape Cod Potato Chip Factory and sample the end results, or buy tickets at The Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis, which offers plenty of music and theater acts during the summer season.

Directions:

• From Boston southward, take Route 3 south (Southeast expressway) to Route 6 over the Sagamore Bridge to Exit 6, Route 132, into Hyannis
• From the intersection of Highways 132 and 28 north of Hyannis, turn south on Hyannis-Barnstable Road.
• In Hyannis, continue south on Ocean Street to Gosnold Street.
• Turn right on Gosnold Street and drive to Harbor Road.
• Turn left on Harbor Road, where the lighthouse will be on your right near the end of the road.

Local Boat Tours and Ferries For Visitors

Boat cruises and ferries mentioned below may offer many types of cruises. Those mentioned below pass by Hyannis Harbor Lighthouse regularly on their cruises, tours, and charters. Enjoy!

Hy-Line Cruises Offers a Hyannis Harbor cruise that provides close views of Hyannis Harbor Light and the Kennedy Compound for tourists. 220 Ocean St Hyannis, Mass. 02601 (800) 492-8082

Bay Spirit Tours Sailing cruises includes Hyannis Harbor lighthouse cruise, sunset cruises, and special charter cruises that include Point Gammon light and Hyannis Harbor light. 180 Ocean Street Hyannis, MA 02601 Phone: 508-771-0107

Lighthouses: Hyannis Harbor lighthouse, Point Gammon lighthouse

Books to Explore

Back to Top

New England Lighthouses > Exploring > Cape Cod > Hyannis Harbor Lighthouse

© Allan Wood Photography , not for commercial use, personal use only. Do not reproduce without permission. All rights reserved. Privacy & Disclaimer Statement

Preserving the Lewis Bay Boathouse

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to enable access to the water.

Won’t you join us?

Recently, we have focused on preserving the Lewis Bay Boathouse. This living classroom with it’s convenient access to the water serves as a base for on-the-water sailing and rowing programs.

Our long-term plan is to preserve a historically significant sailboat as our community “Flagship”.  A traditional catboat might serve as an ambassador to Cape Cod’s work boat heritage for the next generation.

As we develop our plans, we anticipate supporting the Sea Scouts and other community programs in order to increase participation in on-the-water education.

EVENTIDE in WoodenBoat

WoodenBoat Magazine No. 297 contains a feature article on sailboat plank repair. Written by David Stimson and featuring our rescue project EVENTIDE, David's skills are marvelously mind bending. We hope you enjoy his wooden boat woodworking and photos of EVENTIDE....

Eventide Rescue Update #2

This Summer almost half of the frames were replaced on Eventide by David Stimson and his able crew. The engine bed was disassembled. It is one step at a time for these pro wooden boatbuilders. Our goal is repair and reuse as much of the original 1933 build as...

Eventide Rescue Update #1

Community Racing, Inc has undertaken the rescue of Eventide, a 27 foot catboat built in 1933 by George Shiverick. Please consider supporting this effort to re-float Eventide as a living classroom and community asset for Lewis Bay and beyond. From 1985 to 2015,...

Hi, we look forward to hearing from you.

Enter your email...

Comment or Message

Our Top 15 Cape Cod Fishing Charters

By: tonya jean kelsey.

The waters surrounding Cape Cod provide for excellent boat fishing experiences. The best way to get the most out of your trip is to hire a local Cape Cod fishing charter for a day (or more) on the open ocean with a skilled crew.

Charters are available for all group sizes and ages. Smaller boats accommodate up to six people, while others can take groups of 10 to 20 and even as many as 45 passengers. Rates are competitive and you can experience Cape Cod fishing for as little as $45 per person for 2 hours with a mixed group or $400 for a 3-to-4-hour private charter, to $1,200 for a full-day experience, and upwards of $3,000 for overnight, 2-day and longer trips.

Here are a few of the best Cape Cod Fishing Charters:

Out of Falmouth Harbor:

Falmouth Family Charters offers charters for up to 6 people with 2-hour trips, 4-hour trips, and hourly rates for custom trips on the Scrimshaw, a 29’ Albermarle Express Sport Fish boat that is sturdy, stable, and fast. On board, there is a queen bunk, enclosed stand up head (restroom), refrigerator, microwave, and plenty of storage. The crew specializes in family adventures that include fishing, sightseeing, and picnics. All the rods and tackle you need are provided as you go after striped bass, bluefish, fluke and even sea bass. After a few hours of fishing, many guests enjoy swimming and lunch in a beautiful cove. Along the way, you will have a chance to learn knot tying skills, basic seamanship, and all about the fish you’re catching. The kids may even get to drive! Falmouth Family Charters is well known for providing a fun, safe, and exciting experience for all.

The Fish Bandit targets bluefish, bonito, false albacore, king mackerel, sea bass, striped bass, fluke, scup and more in the waters on the south side of Cape Cod, up into Buzzards Bay, and wherever the fish are active. The boat is a 24′ Center Console Robalo plenty of power, an onboard head, three live wells for bait, and the latest electronics including fish finder, depth finder, G.P.S. and radar. The Fish Bandit’s private charters accommodate up to 4 people with 4-hour afternoon trips, 6-hour morning trips, and 8-hour day charters.

Out of Sandwich Harbor:

Sarah ‘K’ Charters operates a roomy 38′ Down East Sportfisherman with a 15’ beam, a large cockpit, full-sized head, and comfortable accommodations for groups of up to 6 people. Join the experienced captain on a 5- or 7-hour fishing trip in Buzzards Bay for porgies and sea bass, a 10-hour trip around the Islands for fluke, porgies, and sea bass, or a 10-hour trip out to Stellwagon Bank on the outer edge of the Cape for haddock and pollock, school tuna or cod. All custom bait and tackle are included. For current prices, booking and details, visit them online.

Captain Joe P Charters is all about fishing, whether you are after a relaxing day on the water or you’re serious about hooking a trophy. The team caters to all walks of anglers – families, friends, coworkers, private tours, and special occasions. Primary targets are stripers, scup, sea bass, bluefish, fluke, and tuna, but Captain Joe is open to special requests. The boat is the Miss Jennie, a custom H & H Down East Osmond with a 15’ beam, spacious deck, and state of the art electronics. They offer charters for groups of up to 6 people with 4-hour tours starting, half-day trips in the morning or afternoon, and 8-hour day tours. Captain Joe also does 10-hour tuna and shark trips as well as extended trips to the Northeast Canyons.

Out of Lewis Bay, Hyannis:

Predatuna Sportfishing offers some of the best Cape Cod fishing and can help you land jumbo porgies, sea bass, striped bass, bluefish, or cod, depending on the season. The Predatuna II is a spacious 35′ JC Sportfisher with turbo charged twin engines. The cockpit has plenty of room for up to 6 people, plus there’s running water, a full-size head, a microwave, toaster oven, refrigerator, and bunks as well as top-of-the-line GPS, fish finders and radar. The captain has worked the area for years as commercial fisherman and charter operator, so he’s got the skills to help you catch more fish. 4-hour, 5-hour, 6-hour, and 8-hour trips target stripers, bluefish, and sea bass. 12-hour offshore trips go after bluefin tuna, codfish, shark, or fluke. Predatuna also does overnight Canyon trips to seek out yellowfin tuna, swordfish, marlin, wahoo and more.

Fat 2na Willy’s Fishing Charters has two boats to suit your needs, a 23′ Seacraft named Hell on Reels most suitable for 4 person groups, and a big, 42’ Bruno named Miss Andrea for groups of up to 6 people with plenty of room to spread out, get comfortable and catch fish safely with the help of a professional crew. Miss Andrea launches from Hyannis Harbor and Hell on Reels can be put in just about anywhere. Small boat charters include 4-hour striper and 5-hour bluefish trips, 8-hour striper trips, 8-hour shark trips, and 9 to 12-hour tuna trips. Miss Andrea charters include 5-hour bluefish, squid, sea bass, or scup and porgy trips, and full day striper trips.

Out of Rock Harbor, Orleans:

Liberty Fishing Charters is a family owned and operated service using a 46’ Hatteras Sportfisherman with all the comforts of home – coffee and cold drinks in the galley, an air conditioned or heated salon, two staterooms and heads with showers, a spacious bridge with incredible views, and state-of-the-art electronics. Perfect for relaxing on the bay or a serious angling adventure, Liberty Fishing supplies all the gear and takes you out to where the striped bass, bluefish and bluefin tuna are known to feed. For groups of up to 6 people, Liberty has 4-hour and 8-hour bass and bluefish trips, as well as 12-hour excursions for bass and bluefish or bass and tuna. Liberty also does overnight charters, harbor and island cruises, parties, and whale watching tours.

Triton and Unchained Fishing Charters are known for their successful charters, often exceeding the expectations of anglers. The Triton is a 38’ Holland custom sports fisherman with four fighting chairs and a full tuna tower. The Unchained is a 26-foot Regulator center console that is faster than most and very comfortable. Both will get you to the fishing grounds quickly to make the most out of your fishing time. They specialize in catching striped bass, bluefish, and tuna in Cape Cod Bay and beyond. Depending on what the fish are feeding on, you’ll use topwater casting, mid water trolling, or bottom jigging. Triton charters accommodate groups of up to 6 people for 4- and 8-hour bass and bluefish trips, full day tuna or combination tuna and striper or haddock and pollack. Unchained charters include 2-, 4-, and 8-hour bass and bluefish trips, full day tuna or tuna and striper combination trips, plus 2 to 4 hour groundfish (haddock and pollack) trips that are especially good for kids.

SeaSalt Charters offers private whale watching and fishing charters from the Dolphin Fleet dock in Provincetown for groups of up to 6 people on the Kapula, a 28’ Parker boat with over 90 square feet of open deck space on the stern, ample seating, forward pilothouse open to guests, deck space on the bow, and a marine head in the berth. The captain’s experience as a commercial striped bass fisherman and extensive knowledge of depths, tides, currents, and feeding patterns of the fish makes for extraordinarily successful fishing trips where you’re likely to catch striped bass, bluefish, fluke, cod, and blue fin tuna. Depending on the conditions, you may use light tackle to catch fish at the surface or heavier tackle to troll for the fish deeper in the water or on the bottom, and all rods, tackle and bait will be supplied. SeaSalt offers 4-hour fishing trips and 6-hour combination fishing and whale watching tours.

For prices, booking, and more information on any of these Cape Cod fishing charters please visit their websites directly. If you want information on other boating charters, please check out Cape Cod Boat Charters and Tours.

• Company Store
• Catching the Ferry

Advertising Q & A

• Senior Living Communities
• Wedding Vendor Registration
• Advertise With Us

Games & Contests

• Trivia Thursdays
• Photo Challenge

Local Platforms

• Yard Sale Listing Platform
• Event Calendar Platform
• Local Business Marketplace

Subscribe to Stories

Connect With Us

Request more informaton

Search This Website

WIN A CAPE COD XPLORE TSHIRT

Join the thousands of subscribers who get our newsletters for a chance to win in our weekly drawing.

You can opt out at anytime. See our Privacy Policy

Hyannis Harbor Cruises

Hyannis harbor cruises has ended for the season. see you in 2024, june 27 - july 21, 2023.

Departs from the Ocean Street Dock, 138 Ocean Street, Hyannis, Cape Cod, MA

July 22 - August 19, 2023

August 20 - september 3, 2023, september 4 - october 10, 2023, hyannis harbor cruise (1-hour).

Learn about the history of Hyannis and local area landmarks including Great Island, the Kennedy Memorial, St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, Squaw Island, Point Gammon Light, and the historic Kennedy Compound in Hyannisport. Live commentary. KIDS RIDE FREE on morning trips.

Sunset Cocktail Cruise (90-Minutes)

During the summer, cruise the shimmering waters around Hyannis and join us on a relaxing evening cruise, drinking in the spectacular colors of a Cape Cod sunset sky. No live commentary. Cash bar.

Cocktail Cruise (1-Hour)

Bid farewell to another delightful day on Cape Cod, or say hello to your Cape Cod evening while enjoying a favorite libation. No live commentary. Cash bar.

Musical Bingo Cruise (90-Minutes)

An out-of-this-world live interactive entertainment experience! Musical Bingo is a revolutionary event that’s taking the East Coast by storm. Everybody loves music, everybody loves bingo, an unforgettable night for all ages! 

Ticket is refundable less a $3.00 fee (per) if cancelled by 5:00pm the day prior. CANCELLATIONS CAN ONLY BE MADE BY CALLING: (508) 790-0696

What to Expect on a Harbor Cruise

The best way to see the memorable sights and beauty of Hyannis is by the sea. Relax and enjoy the views as your guide explains the various points of interest you see along the way. It’s a fascinating (and sometimes comical) history that includes aspects of our maritime industry, the people who established our waterfront community, and some of the area’s most interesting sights. 

Our departure point, Hyannis Inner Harbor, is bustling with activity – ferries to the islands, fishing charters, and more. The mid-Cape is a great choice for those who want to be centrally located and enjoy a bit of everything the Cape has to offer. It’s an experience that will be one of the highlights of your trip to Cape Cod. And it only takes an hour. Limited paid parking is available in our parking lot conveniently located near Hyannis Harbor, or along the road – so drive on in, hop on a cruise, and sit back and relax!

Please share your experience #ThisIsHyline .

New England Wanderlust

Cape Cod , Massachusetts , Summer  ·  April 27, 2022

10 Best Cape Cod Lighthouses + How To Visit Them (2024)

If you’re looking to see the best Cape Cod lighthouses during your trip, then you’re in the right place. One of my favorite things to do in the region is to visit all the amazing New England lighthouses , and Cape Cod is home to some of the most exciting to visit.

This post will share information on how to visit the best Cape Cod lighthouses, which ones are open to the public, which lighthouses you can drive to, and which will require a bit more of an adventurous spirit. So, with that, let’s jump in!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

How Many Lighthouses Are There On Cape Cod?

There are 14 lighthouses on Cape Cod (excluding the islands), and they are:

• Nauset Lighthouse (Eastham)
• Highland Lighthouse (Truro)
• Race Point Lighthouse (Provincetown)
• Chatham Lighthouse (Chatham)
• Long Point Light Station (Provincetown)
• Woods End Lighthouse (Provincetown)
• West Dennis Light (Dennis)
• Nobska Lighthouse (Falmouth)
• Three Sisters Lighthouse (Eastham)
• Monomoy Lighthouse (Chatham)
• Sandy Neck Lighthouse (Barnstable)
• Lewis Bay Lighthouse (Hyannis)
• Wings Neck Lighthouse (Pocasset)
• Stage Harbor Light (Chatham)

Note : The Three Sisters are actually three separate lighthouses that are grouped together. Some say Cape Cod has 16 lighthouses for this reason, but for the sake of this post, I’m counting them as one lighthouse.

What Cape Cod Lighthouses Are Open To The Public?

The grounds of 9 Cape Cod lighthouses are open to the public to explore, and they are:

• Nauset Lighthouse
• Three Sisters Lighthouse
• Monomoy Lighthouse
• Highland Lighthouse
• Nobska Lighthouse
• Long Point Light Station
• Woods End Lighthouse
• Race Point Lighthouse
• Chatham Lighthouse

Tip : This list includes lighthouses that allow visitors to walk the grounds, and walk up to the lighthouse year-round. Not all may be open for climbing to the top of the tower. Jump below for more information on lighthouses that are open for climbing.

Cape Cod Lighthouses That Are Closed To The Public

There are 5 lighthouses that are privately owned and not open to the general public, but some of them you’ll be able to see from a distance, or visit if you’re an overnight guest.

• Wings Neck Light is a vacation rental that you can actually stay in (even better than a quick visit!). But the grounds can only be accessed if you’re a guest with an overnight reservation.
• Lewis Bay Lighthouse is on the grounds of a private, residential home. You’ll be able to get a peek of the lighthouse from the street that the house is on, but you won’t be able to walk up to it.
• Sandy Neck Lighthouse is also on private, residential property. If you take a boat tour in the area, you’ll be able to see it from the water. Alternatively, you can take a 7.5-mile round trip walk in soft sand out to the lighthouse and back, but you won’t be able to walk right up to the lighthouse. If you do venture out by food, remember to be respectful of the owner’s property.
• West Dennis Lighthouse is currently a hotel, and the light tower is not open to the public. If you’re a guest at the hotel, you’ll be able to climb the lighthouse tower during a guided tour with a staff member.
• Stage Harbor Lighthouse is on privately-owned property, but you’re still able to walk pretty close to it via a short walk along the beach (jump down for more information!).

The Best Cape Cod Lighthouses You Can Actually Visit

While there are more Cape Cod lighthouses than what’s included on this list, these are the best ones to visit during your trip to the Cape. I’ve broken them up into two categories: Lighthouses that are easy to visit, and lighthouses that are more challenging to visit, but absolutely worth the effort!

Easiest Cape Cod Lighthouses To Visit

The best Cape Cod lighthouses in this portion of the list are easy to get to, meaning you can drive or walk to them.

1. Nauset Lighthouse

The most iconic and popular lighthouse on Cape Cod is Nauset Light, and that’s because you’ve probably already seen its picture somewhere. Can you place it? It’s the lighthouse featured on the Cape Cod chips bags!

Nauset Light can be found right at Nauset Light Beach, which is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, so it’s a great idea to plan to visit both the beach and the lighthouse on the same day. The grounds around Nauset Lighthouse are small, so it doesn’t require more than 30 minutes to explore, but there are definitely some great places to take photos, so be sure to bring your camera!

Nauset Light was actually originally part of a pair of lighthouses in Chatham, and its counterpart, Chatham Lighthouse, is still standing. It was moved and repainted with its signature red top in 1923.

Nauset Light grounds are open year-round and are free for all to visit. Tours of the inside are offered late-May through the summer season. Jump below more more information on lighthouse tours.

Parking At Nauset Lighthouse

If you plan to visit both the beach and the lighthouse, you’ll park right in the beach lot. Since the beach is part of the National Parks System, the daily rate of $25 will apply Memorial Day through mid-September.

If you only want to visit the lighthouse, and not the beach, you can still park in the beach lot, and you’ll just have to pay the daily rate if you plan to visit before 5p in the summer. During peak summer months, the lot can fill up fast, especially on weekends. If you don’t mind paying the daily rate to park, I would suggest getting there in the early morning.

If you’re able to visit the lighthouse after 5p in the summer, the beach lot will be free, and parking spots should be available since people are usually leaving the beach between 3-5p.

Another option for parking is the Three Sister lot, which is just a short 10-minute walk from Nauset Lighthouse (type Three Sisters Lighthouse into Google Maps or GPS). This lot is completely free all day at any time throughout the year, so you’ll be able to park here and walk to Nauset Light, and also combine your visit with the Three Sisters lighthouses. This lot is small, but I’ve never had a problem getting a spot, even on a busy Saturday afternoon in July.

Off season (Mid-September through late-May), you’ll be able to park in the beach lot for free at any time to see the lighthouse.

2. Highland Lighthouse

One of the best Cape Cod lighthouses, and one of my personal favorites to visit, is Highland Light, which can be found in Truro. It’s also the oldest and tallest lighthouse on the Cape, and was originally commissioned by George Washington in 1797.

The original lighthouse had structural issues, and was also built too close to the shoreline, so the structure that you see today was built in 1831, and was moved in the 1990s to protect it from cliff erosion.

There’s a short walking path from the parking area to the lighthouse, so you’ll be able to take in views of it from a distance, as well as from up close. Be sure to walk past the lighthouse to get to the observation area that provides sweeping views of the ocean.

The Highland Lighthouse grounds are open year-round for all, and tours of the inside are available in the summer season. Jump below more more information on lighthouse tours.

Fun fact! Henry David Thoreau was an overnight guest at Highland Light, and even wrote an essay of the history of the lighthouse for Atlantic Monthly .

Parking At Highland Lighthouse

Parking at this lighthouse is very easy. There’s a free lot that accommodates a good amount of cars, and the parking area is about a 5-minute walk to the lighthouse via a well-marked path.

3. Nobska Lighthouse

Located in Falmouth, one of the best Cape Cod lighthouses to visit is Nobska Light, which provides amazing views of the ocean, and is also an awesome sunset spot. Originally built in 1829, and then rebuilt in 1876 (which is the structure you see standing today), Nobska Light was saved from demolition after the town of Falmouth rallied together in 2017 to raise funds to keep it open as a lighthouse and museum.

The immediate grounds of Nobska Light are small, but if you cross the street directly in front of the lighthouse, you’ll find some amazing coastline with benches as well as paths that you can explore and enjoy views of the ocean and the sunset. You’ll also get some cool views of the lighthouse from here.

The grounds of this lighthouse are open year-round, and are free for all to enjoy. Interior tours are available in the summer season for those looking to climb to the tower. Jump below more more information on lighthouse tours.

Parking at Nobska Lighthouse

The lighthouse has a small parking that’s free, but only accommodates about 5-6 cars. During the summer at sunset time, it’s possible the lot could be full. When visiting on weekdays in the summer, or any time year-round, I’ve never had a hard time getting a spot, or have only waited a few minutes for someone to leave.

4. The Three Sisters Lighthouses

Located in Eastham within walking distance of Nauset Light are the Three Sisters Lighthouses. These lighthouses were the original guards of the Nauset Cliffs before being replaced by Nauset Light. They were named the Three Sisters because from out at sea, they were said to look like three women dressed in white, wearing black hats.

The National Parks Service slowly regained possession of these lighthouses between 1920 and 1975, and after some restoration in the 1980s, the lighthouses were placed in their current location and opened to the public for all to enjoy.

The grounds of the Three Sisters Lighthouses are in a quiet wooded area, and are really peaceful to experience. The interior of the lighthouses are open for tours May through October. Jump below more more information on lighthouse tours.

Parking For The Three Sisters Lighthouses

There is a small parking lot at the Three Sisters Lighthouses that is free, and can easily be found by typing “Three Sisters Lighthouses” into Google Maps or your GPS. You can also use this lot to visit Nauset Light, which is within walking distance, and connected by a paved walking path.

5. Chatham Lighthouse

Chatham Lighthouse is perched above Chatham Lighthouse Beach, and has been standing guard since 1841. If you remember from the Nauset Light section that Chatham Light and Nauset Light once stood as a pair, and were separated in 1923. You’ll notice that they both look very similar.

The grounds around Chatham Light are surrounded by an enclosed gate, so while you can get a great view of the lighthouse from the street, you won’t be able to explore the grounds without a tour, which are offered in the summer season. It’s still worth visiting Chatham Light, though, because you really can get a great view of it from the street, and you can get closer to the structure than you’d think.

You can also easily see the lighthouse from Chatham Lighthouse Beach. Jump below more more information on lighthouse tours.

Parking At Chatham Lighthouse

There is free parking right in front of the lighthouse, which has a 30-minute time limit. During the summer months, it’s enforced, but during off-season, it’s not really monitored. In the summer, getting a parking spot here can be tough, especially at peak times like weekends and afternoons. I would suggest you arrive in the early mornings for the best chance at getting a spot in the summer.

If you’re looking to explore downtown Chatham, it’s a great idea to combine that with the lighthouse. Parking in downtown Chatham can also be challenging in the summer, but it’s easier than the lighthouse in that you have more options. If you don’t mind the walk, I would suggest street parking in Chatham, or using one of the downtown lots, and then walking a mile to the lighthouse. It’s an easy and pleasant walk!

More Difficult Cape Cod Lighthouses To Visit

The best Cape Cod lighthouses to visit on this list are more difficult to get to, but worth trying to visit, depending on what kind of adventure you’re up for. I’ve ranked them in order of easiest to most difficult to visit.

6. Stage Harbor Lighthouse

Stage Harbor Lighthouse is actually not super difficult to see, it just requires a walk about a mile long through both soft and packed sand. This lighthouse is currently privately owned and not open to the public, but you’ll still be able to walk up pretty close to it, and get a great view.

Stage Harbor no longer has its light, so you’ll notice that’s missing when you arrive. But the rest of the tower is still in tact, and is a really beautiful site to see. While visiting, be sure to respect the No Trespassing signs, and stay outside of the fenced areas.

The walking path to Stage Harbor Lighthouse is open year-round, and free for all to explore (with the exception of the parking fee in-season).

Parking For Stage Harbor Lighthouse

To get to Stage Harbor Lighthouse, you’ll want to park at Hardings Beach in Chatham (fees apply in-season). Once you park, the trailhead can be found all the way at the left side of the beach (left side if you’re facing the water).

7. Race Point Lighthouse

One of the best Cape Cod lighthouses, and one of the more remote ones you can visit, is Race Point Light, which can be found in Provincetown. The only way to get to Race Point Lighthouse is to walk, which is 3.5 miles round trip, or take a tour with a company that has vehicles with the correct permits to drive over the sand.

To get to Race Point Lighthouse, you’ll want to park at the Hatches Harbor parking lot, which is free, and begin your walk from the trailhead just off the parking area.

The Race Point Lighthouse grounds are open year-round to the public, and are free to explore. If you enjoy your visit, click here to consider making a donation on their website to help maintain the lighthouse and keep it open to visitors .

Jump below more more information on lighthouse tours.

8. Long Point Light Station

Long Point Light Station is one of the most exciting lighthouses to visit because it’s located at the very tip of Cape Cod, so it’ll be fun just to say you’ve been to the very end of the Cape, and survived to tell the story!

In actuality, you can visit Long Point Lighthouse easily with a short cut, or you can take the adventurous route, and hike the whole way there. From May 15-Labor Day weekend, you can take a shuttle boat from Provincetown to Long Point, where you’ll easily be able to walk up to the lighthouse. Click here for information on the Long Point Shuttle .

If you choose to walk to the lighthouse, you’ll start your journey by crossing the Provincetown Causeway, and in total, hike about 6 miles round-trip in soft sand. During this walk, you’ll also be able to visit Woods End Lighthouse (the next one on the list!).

The hike to Long Point Light is open year-round, and free for all to explore. The actual lighthouse is not open for interior tours, so you’ll only be able to explore the grounds (but the scenery will be absolutely breathtaking!).

9. Woods End Lighthouse

The most remote lighthouse that you can get to on foot on Cape Cod is Woods End Lighthouse. Also located in Provincetown in the same stretch as Long Point, Woods End can only be accessed by walking, as the Long Point Shuttle won’t bring you directly to the lighthouse. This, combined with Long Point Lighthouse, is one of the most incredible, scenic hikes you can make on Cape Cod, and I highly recommend it!

Woods End Lighthouse is also the only Cape Cod lighthouse whose original structure is still standing. It was erected in 1872, and was never rebuilt.

How To Get To Woods End Lighthouse

To hike to Woods End Lighthouse, you’ll park at the First Pilgrim Landing Rotary in Provincetown, which is right by the Provincetown Causeway, and then walk over the entire causeway, which is about 1 mile. Once you cross the causeway, you’ll see the lighthouse to your right. Follow the trail toward the lighthouse in the sand for just under a mile, and you’ll reach Woods End Light.

If you want to continue the hike to the tip of Cape Cod and see Long Point Lighthouse, the walk is another 1.75 miles to Long Point. From there, you can either reverse course back to the causeway, or coordinate your return with the Long Point shuttle, and take that back to Provincetown. Just remember, you’ll need to get transportation back to your car in this case!

10. Monomoy Point Lighthouse

The hardest lighthouse on Cape Cod to visit is Monomoy Light, and that’s because you’ll have to take a day trip that includes arranging a private boat charter and guided tour. But this is an absolutely incredible experience that not only allows you to see the lighthouse, but also walk around the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, and spot all kinds of birds and animals.

If you’re okay just seeing Monomoy Light from the water, you can take a cruise with Monomoy Island Excursions , which offers tours that will pass by the lighthouse.

How To Get To Monomoy Point Lighthouse

If you’re ready for an adventure and really want to see Monomoy Lighthouse up close, you can take a day trip where you’ll charter a private ferry excursion with Monomoy Island Ferry , and they’ll lead you on a guided tour with a naturalist, and show you around Monomoy’s Wildlife Refugee, and also take you to the lighthouse. This is the only way to Monomoy Lighthouse.

Are you planning your first trip to Cape Cod? Click here to read my guide on the 15 things you absolutely must see!

Which Cape Cod Lighthouses Can You Drive To?

There are 5 Cape Cod lighthouses you can drive to, and they are Nauset Light, Three Sisters, Highland Light, Nobska Light and Chatham Light.

Cape Cod Lighthouses You Can Climb

There are 6 Cape Cod Lighthouses that are open to the public for tours and climbing, and they are Nauset Light, Highland Light, Nobka Light, Three Sisters, Chatham Light and Race Point Light. Below is more information on how to tour and climb each of these lighthouses:

• Nauset Lighthouse offers free tours to the public from May-October on select days. Tours are done open-house style, and can’t be booked in advance, and you may have to wait your turn if you arrive while a current tour is taking place. Click here for more information on free tours of Nauset Lighthouse .
• Highland Lighthouse is open for tours of the inside and top of the tower from late-May through September/October, depending on the year. Click here for more information on tours inside Highland Lighthouse .
• Nobska Lighthouse is open for tours in the summer months on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10a-12p. Click here for more information on tours inside Nobska Lighthouse .
• Three Sister Lighthouses are open for guided tours with a park ranger from May-October. Click here to access the National Park Services calendar of events for the season to see when tours will be available for these lighthouses .
• Chatham Lighthouse is open for tours in the summer months. Click here for more information on seeing the inside of Chatham Lighthouse .
• Race Point Lighthouse offers tours on the first and third Saturday, June through October. It’s possible that shore bird nesting season could prohibit tours from happening, so it’s best to check and be sure that tours are operating when you decide to visit. Click here for information on touring the inside of Race Point Lighthouse .

Cape Cod Lighthouses You Can Stay Overnight In

There are 3 Cape Cod lighthouses that you can stay overnight in, and they are Wings Neck Lighthouse , West Dennis Lighthouse ( The Lighthouse Inn ) and Race Point Lighthouse .

With overnight reservations only, guests will be able to climb the towers of West Dennis and Wings Neck Lighthouses.

Cape Cod Islands Lighthouses

There are some amazing lighthouses you can also visit on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, the two Cape Cod islands.

On Martha’s Vineyard , there are 5 lighthouses including East Chop Light, West Chop Light, Edgartown Lighthouse, Gay Head Lighthouse and Cape Poge Lighthouse.

On Nantucket , there are 3 lighthouses you can visit, including Brant Point Lighthouse, Sankaty Lighthouse and Great Point Lighthouse.

You may also find these posts helpful:

• Best Beach Towns In New England
• Best Things To Do On Cape Cod For First-Timers
• Best Time To Visit Cape Cod
• How To Visit All 3 Nantucket Lighthouses
• Nantucket Or Martha’s Vineyard For A Day Trip?
• Best Towns To Stay In On Cape Cod
• Cape Cod vs. Nantucket: Which Is Best For You?
• Best Places To See Seals On Cape Cod

And here are some guides to Cape Cod towns you may also enjoy:

• Best Things To Do In Wellfleet, MA
• Best Things To Do In Harwich, MA
• Best Things To Do In Dennis, MA
• Best Things To Do In Falmouth, MA
• Best Things To Do In Brewster, MA
• Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA
• Best Things To Do In Chatham, MA
• Best Things To Do In Sandwich, MA
• Best Things To Do In Eastham, MA
• Best Things To Do In Orleans, MA

That’s A Wrap On The Best Cape Cod Lighthouses To Visit

Now you’re ready to plan your own lighthouse tour during your trip! Whether you’re looking to do a full lighthouse tour and see as many as possible, or you’re looking to just see a few of the best Cape Cod lighthouses, you’re sure to have a great time, as the Cape has some absolutely stunning lighthouses surrounded by even more beautiful scenery.

You might also enjoy

Subscribe To My Newsletter

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Disclosure Policy

Cape Water Tours and Taxi

Review Highlights

“ I can't say enough about how relaxing and beautiful the Sunset cruise was on a beautiful evening. ” in 9 reviews

“ No better way to see a sunset than on a boat on the beautiful Delaware Bay manned by Cape Water Taxi ! ” in 4 reviews

“ A far cry from the bar scene in Ocean City and over crowded streets in Bethany & Rehoboth . ” in 6 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

217 Anglers Rd

Lewes, DE 19958

You Might Also Consider

Corporate Coach Car Service

Linda M. said "Comfortable cars, professional drivers and prompt service makes them top of the list. We ride with Corporate Coach from now on. Thanks Mr. P!!" read more

in Town Car Service, Limos, Tours

Amenities and More

About the business.

More Than Just a Boat RideWhether this is your first or 500th visit to the Delaware beaches, you will never have a better view of the uniqueness of the southern Delaware waterways than the view you get when you are on one of the cruises or tours offered by Cape water tours and taxi.   Knowledgeable captains and crew-members will take you out on THE Discovery in comfort and style.  Once on board, you will experience the panoramic views of our shorelines, the wonderfully lush landscape of our grassy marshlands, our local water life and birdlife, and the rich history of what was once a major shipping canal for transporting crops and commodities up and down the rivers to major ports such as Philadelphia and Wilmington. Cape Water Tours and Taxi: your ticket to the wonders of the Southern Delaware waterways. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Cape Water Tours and Taxi .

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

We went on the sunset and moon rise ride. It was a perfect sunny day, so sunset with the light house view was amazing. Then full moon rose on the other side of the sky was no words could describe. It's just... magical!! Captain Mike and his staff were professional and knowledge. They even showed us dolphins even though it's not our boat ride package. They are super easy going. You can bring your own drinks and food on the boat. Oh, no seasick either. I was worried since I get car sick easily. The entire ride was smooth and comfortable.

I'm a bit overdue on this review, but better late than never. I took my sister and our nieces for a Full Moon Cruise on 8/12/2022. It was a 90 minute cruise from 9:15pm - 10:45pm, it was awesome! The staff was friendly and very knowledgeable. I really liked that they allow you to bring dogs onboard. I didn't bring my 2 girls but may in the future. We cruised along the bay and was given some great information about the area and the lighthouse. The full moon was just perfect! The only thing that I didn't like was the red light on the boat as it made taking pictures of us on the boat horrible. A very nice outing and I truly recommend it! Plan to do some other tours in the future!

See all photos from Rebecca C. for Cape Water Tours and Taxi

Omg it was 10/10 experience. First of all, the staffs are so nice and professional. The view was breathtaking. We also got to see dolphins!! Definitely would recommend and it was totally worth the price!

We were visiting Rehoboth and Georgetown for a week when my wife said "let's go see the dolphins!" On our last trip to DE we tent camped in Cape Henlopen state park where she was floating in the water and dolphins were only a few feet away. Ever since then I think she's been enamored with them. The boat is fairly large and can hold around 80 people. My wife accidentally scheduled for the wrong week, but the crew was able to accommodate her mix up and fit us in on the cruise (big thanks to them for making it happen!). They are very generous with the time. It isn't like "we drove you out and back, so you only have 30 minutes to see dolphins". It felt like we were out watching dolphins for the whole 90 minutes, the whole trip being a little over 2 hours. The boat can be a little shaky, so bring some ginger or Dramamine if you tend to get seasick with rocking. A boat flew by during our trip and really made things sway. Our captain did the best he could, but between the added waves and the already choppy waters, we were shaking side to side enough to where you could definitely feel it. If I could make any recommendation it would be for the crew to sell snacks while on the water. We packed a picnic lunch (our tour happened at 12, so the kids were expecting food), but I imagine our fellow guests would have bought at least some food if offered. That might mean they wouldn't allow outside food to be brought onboard, so it's probably a tradeoff. We'd prefer to pack our own food, but having the option for say a drink or some ice cream would have been tempting. Parking was free in the Lewes ferry terminal for foot passengers and the boat was a short walk from the parking lot (near the playground). Crew members were happy to engage with riders and the captain provided narration and tidbits where appropriate. Next time we're hanging around Lewes, we'll be sure to check out what other cruises they offer.

We've cruised with Cape Water Tours and Taxi a few times every year we've been in Lewes. It's always a great time. This week we were lucky enough to find out they were doing an end of they year "thank you" cruise this week. Monday night's full moon cruise was gorgeous. The weather was great for November (68), crew was awesome and, get this, the cruise was complimentary! The prices are always reasonable, but free? These guys are the best. If you haven't done so, check them out. Go with friends, get a table together, bring some adult beverages and a jacket for the bay breezes then sit back and enjoy the sites - heron, dolphins, lighthouses, sunsets, moonrises. This is easily the best activity we've experienced in Lewes.

Business owner information

Business Owner

Nov 14, 2021

We are so glad to hear your trip was entertaining and enjoyable! Thank you for the kind review and we hope to see you on board again very soon.

A wonderful evening sunset cruise with a knowledgeable courteous crew and a fair price. We cruised across the bay - spotted blue herons, osprey, pelicans and dolphins. And, a closeup of the east end lighthouse and a more distant view of the breakwater lighthouse. It ended with a perfect sunset.

Took the shorter Dolphin Watching tour do to time constraints. Dolphins were found in abundance very quickly. The tour was postponed to later in the day due to heavy chop and we were alerted well ahead of time via text. Tour also included some facts about the Lewes harbor area and the ocean life. This is a great trip for the kids--some even got a chance to "captain" the boat. Crew was friendly and eager to help. Can bring snacks and even a beer from the nearby restaurant if desired. Might get a bit cold so a light jacket is helpful. Cape Water Tours is exactly as advertised.

My husband and I went on the seal watch excursion, and it was fantastic! The crew does an amazing job! They pointed out where the seals were on the ice breakers, and even turned the engines off and drifted a bit in a few areas to make sure everyone had the opportunity to see, and photograph (if you had a lens capable to do so). We hope to go again soon, on whatever new adventures they offer.

Great tour. The boat was very comfortable.The crew terrific. We saw lots of wonderful things. I will go back again

The Lighthouse cruise is a great way to learn the history of Lewes as well as the lighthouses. It's a 20-30 minute ride/cruise to the Lighthouse. Once there you have 20-30 minutes to to into the Lighthouse & explore. Friendly, knowledge crea. Highly recommended.

Maddie is wonderful. What a great narrator! We had a ball. She taught us so much fascinating history and environmental information. The lighthouse boat tour was phenomenal. It was the height of our trip. We even saw a bald eagle!

255 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Collections Including Cape Water Tours and Taxi

rehoboth beach

Rehoboth DE

By Debra P.

People Also Viewed

Back Bay Tours

Captain Schumann

Piscatus Adventures

Fisherman’s Wharf

Hook ‘em & Cook ‘em

South Jersey Marina

Thundercat Dolphin Watch

Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center

Eating Rehoboth

Indian River Life-Saving Station

Best of Lewes

Things to do in Lewes

Other Places Nearby

Find more Boat Charters near Cape Water Tours and Taxi

Find more Boat Tours near Cape Water Tours and Taxi

Find more Historical Tours near Cape Water Tours and Taxi

Browse Nearby

Restaurants

Arts & Entertainment

Bike Rentals

Boat Charters Near Me

Boat Rides Near Me

Boat Tours Near Me

Historical Tours Near Me

Related Cost Guides

Town Car Service

Boat Charters

Boudoir Photography

Bounce House Rentals

Event Photography

Valet Services

Videographers

• 7 More Cost Guides

Kids Fishing Hyannis

COME FIND US!

508-790-2111 　 [email protected] Departs Gary Brown Ramp at  119-121 Lewis Bay Rd, Hyannis Ma 02601

Purchase Tickets   Buy Gift Certificate

Come aboard for a 90 minute fun filled fishing adventure geared to the little ones. Our trips are fun for kids as well as adults. We fish in protected waters for a most enjoyable experience. All gear and bait is provided by our friendly and experienced crew. Our boat is completely renovated. Bring refreshments or even a picnic lunch. Sun screen, sunglasses and a light jacket are recommended. So bring your good luck charm and let’s go fishing!

• TripAdvisor
• Burials at Sea

Bay Breeze Boarding Location

147 Lewis Bay Road, Hyannis, MA

The Bay Breeze will pick up passengers at 147 Lewis Bay Road in Hyannis, also known as “hospital boat ramp” in Google Maps. There are only 4 parking spaces available at the ramp, so arrive early to get a spot, or in case you need to park elsewhere. If you park at 180 Ocean Street, it’s an eight minute walk to the ramp. You must use the pay at pay stations at Ocean Street.

Cape Water Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Cape Water Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

All Tours & Cruises

Tours and cruises | from lewes & rehoboth.

• Departs 217 Anglers Road Lewes
• User All ages
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Eco Tour-Anglers Road Lewes

See a wide variety of local birds and waterfowl on this water tour of the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal. Explore Delaware’s inland waterways…

• Hour Glass 2 hours

Ultimate Eco Tour-Anglers Road Lewes

Cruise the waters of the Delaware Bay with our crew of experienced science educators to learn about this amazing coastal estuary.

• Departs 43 Cape Henlopen Dr Lewes

East End Lighthouse Tour-Lewes Ferry Terminal

Learn about the rich maritime history of the impressive East End Lighthouse. During this tour guests will explore and photograph the lighthouse up close…

Dolphin Watching-Lewes Ferry Terminal

Come cruise with us on the Delaware Bay and search for dolphins! Enjoy stunning views of popular attractions along the way, like Cape Henlopen Point.

Dolphin Watching with MERR Institute-Lewes Ferry Terminal

A portion of tickets sales will be donated to MERR Institute. Head out in search of dolphins with MERR Institute and help collect valuable data…

Cruise the Canal with Delaware State Parks-Anglers Road Lewes

On Fridays June 23 through August 18, explore Delaware State Park’s coastline and see Thompson’s Island Nature Preserve and much, much more.

• Originates from & returns to 217 Anglers Road Lewes
• Hour Glass 4 hours

Water Taxi to Rehoboth-round trip tickets only

Our Water Taxi service is a round trip ride from Lewes to Rehoboth Beach most Fridays mid June -Labor Day. We depart from Harbour Marina in Lewes (just past Irish Eyes restaurant).  Once under way…

• DEPARTS 43 CAPE HENLOPEN DR LEWES

Dolphin Sunset Cruise-Lewes Ferry Terminal

Our Dolphin Sunset Cruise offers spectacular views of the Delaware Bay, Cape Henlopen Point, Lewes Beach, and the East End and Harbor of Refuge Lighthouses…

Best of Both Worlds – River AND Bay Evening Cruise – Anglers Road Lewes

We will begin the evening sailing north into the peaceful Broadkill River, where we will enjoy memorable views of the scenic…

Delaware Bay Evening Cruise-Anglers Road Lewes

See stunning evening views of popular attractions such as the East End Lighthouse, Cape Henlopen Point and more as the sun sets on the Delaware Bay.

Scenic Sunset Cruise-Lewes Ferry Terminal

Join us for beautiful views of some of our most popular local attractions, including the East End Lighthouse, Cape Henlopen Point, the Cape May Lewes Ferry terminal, & more!

Full Moon Cruise-Anglers Road Lewes

During our Full Moon Cruise we will depart Anglers Road just after sunset and sail out into the Delaware Bay for an unobstructed view of the night sky. Don’t miss this special opportunity!

• User Adults Only

Meteor Shower Cruise-Anglers Road Lewes

See the Perseid Meteor Shower away from the harsh city lights. Join us as we cruise to out to the Delaware Bay for a special viewing of the meteor shower.

• Hour Glass 90 minutes

Lunar Eclipse Cruise-Anglers Road Lewes

Join us for the viewing of the lunar eclipse!

• Departs 43 Cape Henlopen Drive Lewes

Dolphin Sunset FULL MOON Cruise -Lewes Ferry Terminal

Come out with us on the Delaware Bay for this 2 hour, three part cruise. We will depart from the Lewes Ferry Terminal to catch the SUNSET as we venture out onto the bay and away from land light for an unobstructed view of the night sky!

• Departs 511 Rehoboth Avenue Rehoboth Beach

Sunset & Full Moon -Grove Park Rehoboth

For our Sunset Full Moon Cruise we will depart Grove Park Dock/Rehoboth Museum to catch the SUNSET and the FULL MOON as we venture out into the Rehoboth Bay.

• Departs 511 Rehoboth Ave Rehoboth Beach

Rehoboth Bay Evening Cruise-Grove Park Rehoboth

Depart from our REHOBOTH BEACH dock at the Rehoboth Beach Museum/Grove Park for this 90 minute sunset cruise and enjoy peaceful views of the Lewes-Rehoboth canal, the Rehoboth Bay, and Thompson’s Island. The views of…

Sunset & Full Moon-Anglers Road Lewes

We will depart from our Anglers Road dock on the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal to catch the SUNSET as we cruise out onto the bay and away from land light for an unobstructed view of the night sky.

LEWES FIREWORKS CRUISE-BOOKED AS PRIVATE CHARTER

Our vessels are booked as private charters for 2024 fireworks. Sorry, we will not have a wait list this year.

Lighthouse Jam-Live Music Cruise – SOLD OUT!

Help us bring some atmosphere to the iconic East End Lighthouse by joining us for Lighthouse Jam!

Live Music with Cliff Hillis-Anglers Road Lewes

Join us for a night of live music and a peaceful cruise at sunset. Twilight is awe-inspiring on the Delaware Bay. Rich hues of…

Live Music with Keith Mack-Anglers Road Lewes

Join us for a night of live music and a peaceful cruise at sunset. Twilight is awe-inspiring on the Delaware Bay.

• DEPARTS 217 ANGLERS ROAD LEWES

Live Music with Rick Arzt-Anglers Road Lewes

Live music with roy & madie voshell-anglers road lewes.

A bond formed in 1994, Roy and Madeline Voshell have been living through music since Madeline, the daughter of the duo, was born.

Live Music with Richard and Tecla Walton-Anglers Road Lewes

Richard and Tecla Walton combine spontaneous musical interaction with years of professionalism.

Live Music with Kerry Hallet-Anglers Road Lewes

Enjoy the sounds of live music with singer, songwriter and cover artist Kerry Hallet while enjoying your favorite beverage and/or snack and watching the sunset. BYOB

Seal Watching-Lewes Ferry Terminal

During the winter months we have visitors from the north! Cruise out into the Delaware Bay with us as we safely and respectfully observe harbour and gray seals.

• DISCONTINUED

Osprey Banding Tour

OUR OSPREY EXPERT HAS PERMANENTLY MIGRATED SOUTH SO WE WILL NO LONER BE OFFERING OSPREY BANDING. CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR MUCH DESERVED RETIREMENT, CAPTAIN STEVE!

• Hour Glass 4.5 hours

Cruise to Milton on the Broadkill-Anglers Road Lewes

Don’t miss the opportunity to see the scenic view of the Broadkill River as we cruise from Lewes to Milton, DE.

• Depart 217 Anglers Road Lewes

Private Charters

Book a private charter with us! With room for up to 50 people, our charter vessel is the perfect spot for events of all kinds. 100 passenger vessel is available on a limited basis starting at $2400 plus gratuity and departs from the Lewes Ferry Terminal @ 43 Cape Henlopen Drive Lewes.

Browse the Calendar of all Cruises and Activities

Chesapeake Bay Magazine

The Best of the Bay

Faces of the Bay: Thomas Point Ferryman Howard Lewis

The Chesapeake Bay’s most prolific ferryman, Howard Lewis, speaks about his years shepherding visitors to Thomas Point Shoal Light

The Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is one of the most photographed and beloved symbols of the mid-Chesapeake Bay. It’s one of the only lighthouses you can visit by water to take a tour. If you book one of these coveted tours, the man who will get you out to the lighthouse is Howard Lewis, a deadrise captain who just happens to be the ancestor of a lighthouse keeper.

Lewis has been a lifelong Eastport resident. “I could look out the front door and see corn fields and horses,” he says of his childhood. “Now, I look at a shopping center.” Lewis says both the area and the Chesapeake ecosystem has changed significantly in his time. “I used to go down to all the docks in Eastport and scoop crabs off the pilings.”

In his teenage years, Lewis would go to Thomas Point, the peninsula where the South River meets the Bay. “We would go there and walk through the water, catching peeler crabs in the underwater grasses. There were more crabs than we could eat in a lifetime.” Things have changed since then, but Thomas Point is still a draw for people from all over the Bay region—especially its historic screwpile lighthouse, which sits a mile and a quarter offshore.

Lewis began volunteering with the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse when it transferred ownership to the City of Annapolis in 2004. After the Coast Guard transferred it to the City, the lighthouse was in rough shape. There was a significant amount of work that needed to be done, and volunteers were needed to do it. Lewis and his boat, Audacious, were there to help ferry people and materials to and from the lighthouse. “Someone told me they needed volunteers and it seemed like a fun project to get involved in. Well, here I am, 20 years later, doing the same thing.”

Audacious is a 38-foot Chesapeake Bay wooden deadrise. Built in 1980 by renowned Eastern Shore boatbuilder Roger Bloodsworth, Audacious is truly one of a kind. In addition to her service as a workboat for the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse, Lewis uses her for his own recreational crabbing pleasure. “I may be biased, but I don’t think you can find a boat with prettier lines.”

John Potvin, who is now the manager of the Lighthouse, also started volunteering at the same time as Lewis. “John and I just clicked,” Lewis says. “I don’t know that I could find a better friend than John.”

Potvin and Lewis continued volunteering, developing a bond with each other and the Lighthouse. Eventually Potvin stepped in as Lighthouse manager and brought the idea of running tours. He pitched the idea to Lewis and asked him to run them with him, acting as captain of the tour boat.  They trained docents and established a connection with a waterman who let them use his Coast Guard-inspected vessel ( Audacious is not inspected/approved as a USCG commercial vessel). For a few years, Potvin and Lewis utilized a boat from Tilghman Island, until the owner decided to sell it.

“It was a pain to deal with at the time, but it somewhat forced us to get a tour boat of  our own,” Lewis says. The two men found a 46-foot Markley, a fiberglass deadrise, and made it the official lighthouse tour boat. Their wives named the boat Bodacious. “ That way [between Audacious and Bodacious ] we could have an “A” & “B” boat,” Lewis says.

Lewis is the only one who drives the boats to the lighthouse. “Aside from me being the only one to have a captain’s license, it just made sense for me to drive the boat,” Lewis says. “I’ve docked at the lighthouse more times than anybody, including the Coast Guard.”

When visitors tour the lighthouse today, Lewis expertly maneuvers the 46-foot boat into position and Potvin ties her off. “It doesn’t matter the conditions, Howard could dock the boat here,” Potvin says. 

In an interesting twist, Lewis found that he has a family history on the lighthouse. “You know, my great-great-grandfather was the head lighthouse keeper here at one point,” he says. And sure enough, he can point to a plaque inside the lighthouse with the name Charles W. Hartmann, Lewis’s ancestor, who kept the light turning from 1898 to 1901. “I guess it’s in my blood.”

As a well-maintained National Historic Landmark, Thomas Point Light is a reminder of the past and represents what navigation was once like on the Bay. For many, the Thomas Point Shoal Light marks the way home. But for Howard Lewis, the lighthouse is home.

At last check, June tours of the lighthouse were sold out, but there are still tours available on limited dates for July through October. Find out more here .

Related Stories

Exploring the Nanticoke

This easily navigable waterway is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty.

Weekends on the Water: Oxford, MD

Sponsored by Pocket Yacht Spend a weekend on the water in Oxford! In this video

Maryland Seafood Festival Returns to City Dock Roots

When the long-running Maryland Seafood Festival was first held at Annapolis City Dock, it was