In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, summer on Lake Winnipesaukee was defined by connection; the lake wasn’t just a scenic view, but a bustling highway where steamboats served as the lifeblood of the region.
Today, we are thrilled to announce a new partnership that brings the storied tradition of lake passenger service right back.
Beginning this summer, the Winnipesaukee Spirit will make a weekly call at the historic Ames Farm Inn in Gilford, NH.
This exclusive, one-day-a-week connection revives a beautiful tradition of lakeside hospitality. It also proudly reconnects us with the Mount Washington Cruises organization.
Two Historic Legacies, One Shared Journey
This partnership is a natural reunion of two of Lake Winnipesaukee’s most enduring institutions. Established in 1872, Mount Washington Cruises has spent over 150 years navigating these waters. Mount Washington’s history is rooted in this vibrant era, when in addition to major ports, they also offered service to resort landings such as Long Island, Bear Island, and Diamond Island.
The Ames Family has been welcoming families to its natural Gilford shoreline and resort since 1890. The 4th through 6th generation of the Ames family seek to restore passenger service. The Governor Endicott (circa 1910) and Sophie C are examples of boats that routinely made stops at Ames Farm to pick up some of the earliest vacationers on Lake Winnipesaukee.
Choose Your Day on the Lake
Whether you are starting your day in Gilford or Wolfeboro, this weekly excursion offers a perfect, leisurely escape:
- For Guests of Ames Farm Inn: Board the Winnipesaukee Spirit right from the Inn's dock for a scenic cruise across the lake to the charming town of Wolfeboro. Enjoy a day of shopping, dining, and exploring before boarding the vessel for a relaxing cruise back to the Inn later in the afternoon.
- For Passengers Departing Wolfeboro: Set sail from Wolfeboro and step off at Ames Farm Inn. Spend your time at this historic property by enjoying a delicious lunch in the restaurant, browsing the gift shop (with Kellerhaus ice cream), and taking in the breathtaking views. Then hop back aboard the Spirit for your return voyage.
Important Travel Note
To preserve the peaceful, family-focused atmosphere of the property, boarding at the Gilford location is strictly exclusive to guests staying at the Ames Farm Inn. This particular departure serves as a special amenity for overnight guests looking to leave the car keys behind and experience the lake the way travelers did a century ago.
Public passengers looking to enjoy a lunchtime visit to Ames Farm Inn can book their round-trip tickets departing out of our Wolfeboro port.
