Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
Group Authorization Terms and Conditions
- Authorizations are required for groups of 25 or more people engaged in intended use of the Park.
- Under current MA Covid-19 guidelines, groups are limited to 100.
- Once an authorization is issued, it is non-transferable.
- It is the responsibility of the contact person(s) to ensure group compliance with all rules and regulations governing the Park.
- The park maintains a “carry in, carry out trash policy.” There is no trash disposal in the park except for items purchased at concessions on Georges and Spectacle Islands.
- Charcoal or fuel cooking stoves allowed only at designated picnic sites.
- Fireworks prohibited on all islands.
- Please observe all fences, railings, signage, and natural barriers such as shrubs, and tall grasses as these indicate areas that are restricted for resource protection or safety concerns.
- Pets are not allowed in the park (expect for on-leash at Webb Memorial State Park) to foster visitor safety and resource protection. Service dogs are permitted on all islands.
- No alcohol beverages.
- School classes and youth camp groups serving youth under 18 years old. must follow a 10:1 ratio of children to adults.
- Participants in the 2021 Island Pass Program waive any right to assert claims of injury or damage arising out of their participation in the 2021 Island Pass program towards Boston Harbor City Cruises, Boston Harbor Now, or the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, National Park Service or the City of Boston.
- Participants consents to the use of any photos, film, or videotape of the event for park marketing and any other lawful purpose.
- All cancellations must be made 48 hours prior to mainland departure. Failure to cancel with Park Personnel will prohibit future participation in the program.
- This authorization prohibits amplified sound for the enjoyment of all.
Covid Safety: Know Before You Go
- For the most recent updates on Massachusetts state guidelines, Click Here.
- If you or anyone in your party feels unwell, has been exposed to COVID-19, please visit us at another time.
- Try to visit us during the week at off peak times.
On the Ferry
- Visitors are required to wear a face covering while boarding and at all times while aboard park ferries. This requirement includes both indoor and outdoor seating areas, and applies to all visitors over the age of 5 regardless of vaccination status.
- Both indoor and outdoor seating areas are available.
- Revised boarding procedures and touchless ticketing have been implemented for your safety and comfort. Always plan to arrive 20-30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow time for ticketing and boarding.
- Food, water, and snacks are available for purchase onboard the ferry. This is your last chance to purchase concessions before your island visit.
On the Island
- Both Spectacle Island and Georges Island will be open for visitation in the 2021 park season! Both islands have modified operations to support visitor safety.
- Effective May 29, masks are no longer required for fully vaccinated individuals indoors or outdoors. Unvaccinated individuals are advised to continue to wear a mask wherever social distancing is not possible.
- Restrooms will be available on both Spectacle and Georges Islands during ferry operation hours.
- Visitor Centers will re-open on Friday, May 29. Park staff are available to help answer any questions you have during your trip.
- Restrooms are open on Spectacle and Georges Island. When in the bathroom, we ask that you wear face coverings to help keep yourselves and others safe.
- As always, there are no trash receptacles on the island. Be prepared to carry out all trash generated on-island to dispose of at home.
- Swimming on Spectacle Island is limited to west beach, located north of the pier. The beach is unguarded, and all swimming on the islands is at your own risk.
- Pack a lunch and lots of water! Water fountains on the island are presently turned off, and the concession booth will be closed, however, you may purchase snacks and water on the boat trip out to the island.
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, or anything else you will need for being in the sun.