Isles of Shoals

Each of the Isles of Shoals islands is privately owned; New Hampshire’s islands are Star, White, Seavey, and Lunging. Star Island is one of the most popular, home to the Oceanic Hotel, a restaurant, and the Brookfield Marine Lab. The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company is one of the many companies offering cruises; most companies only run seasonal trips from early summer to mid-autumn. Plan your cruise in advance, as many trips sell out quickly.

• Star Island is the only wheelchair-accessible island, but its accessibility is limited.

• Not all cruise companies or cruise tours offer stopovers on the islands.

• Limited moorings, none of which are public or rentals, are challenging to secure in the summer months.

The Isles of Shoals are accessible by boat; even though the islands are privately owned, you’re welcome to sail your own boat or dock on the islands via formal cruises and charters. Cruises depart from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, including the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company at 315 Market St.

Arrive for your cruise or charter at least 15 minutes before departure. Weekends tend to be busier, though if you’re looking for fewer crowds, consider booking a cruise in September. This includes if you’re staying at the Oceanic Hotel and must catch a boat from the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company docks.

The Piscataqua River divides the two states, and this border has plenty of other relaxed spots to explore the two states. New Castle Island, for instance, has the Fort Stark State Historic Site and Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse on the New Hampshire side, while the Maine side features the seafood shacks on Badger’s Island and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard on Seavey’s Island.