Cruise with a Naturalist

Cruise Schedule

September 4 through October 8	Fridays 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 (2020)	Member Rate	Non-Member Rate
Adult	$23.00	$27.00
Senior	$21.00	$25.00
Youth (Ages 0-15)	$19.00	$23.00
Not recommended for children under 3

Combination Passes (trail and cruise) are not available for the 2020 season.

Become a Member Today

Cruises are 90 minutes long and on canopied pontoon boats. All visitors will be asked health screening questions at check-in. Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your cruise departure time. All visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines and are required to wear face masks. Thank you for your cooperation, which will help keep the Science Center open for everyone to enjoy. 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.

Cancellations:

Cruises may be cancelled if there are fewer than two 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.

Discover Squam

Bald Eagle Adventure

Loon Cruise

Cruise with a Naturalist

Lake Explorers Family Cruise

Dinner and Sunset Cruise

Private Charters

Group Tours

Discover Squam

Bald Eagle Adventure

Loon Cruise

Cruise with a Naturalist

Lake Explorers Family Cruise

Dinner and Sunset Cruise

Private Charters

Group Tours

Eric Jewart, 08/20/19
Had a fun visit there with my kids. We saw a presentation with a live porcupine which was cool. The presenter was very engaging. We spent about two hours total, just drifting around the main loop looking at everything there. The mountain lion and bobcat were pretty neat to see.
Shaun Wyndman, 08/18/18
This is a very pricey cross between a zoo and a nature trail. The science center features several exhibits relating to the animals in the area. It also has exhibits relating to conservation etc. They offer animal shows, demonstrating live animals several times a day, and feedings three days a week, so check the schedule to see if your favorite is on display. In addition to the move animal exhibits the center features several walking trails offering an opportunity to see local wildlife and plant life. Most tree species are marked for easy identification of the local foliage. There is also a ninety minute boat tour of squam lake available for an additional fee.
Jeff Sirles, 08/30/19
If you're looking for a place where you can have fun, learn, enjoy nature as an adult or a child, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is a great place to be! You can also experience Squam Lake by taking one of their cruises. This is a must-do! If you're in the lakes region of NH and you are able to make it here, be sure to go. You will have a great time.
Nathaniel Abbott, 08/10/19
This nature preserve is one or the most important places in the State, or the country. Inventive, entertaining exhibits are sprinkled liberally in between live wild animals (all rescues that would otherwise die or fair poorly). Plenty of playground installations for the Rugrats to wear themselves out on. Every parent who can must take their children as often as possible so that the messages about nature and the environment have a chance to get across and be heard and understood. There are dozens of nature and wildlife live presentations every week. This is truly a national treasure.
cheryl lemay, 07/31/19
Very nice area for walking. Lots of hands on activities to increase knowledge. There is a small picnic area towards the beginning of you wanted to bring some food to eat. There is also a small cafe, if you didn't bring your own food.