As the days get shorter and the waters cool, our 2026 season officially has officially come to a close. Looking back, this was far more than just another summer of scenic cruising—it was a landmark year marked by revitalized vessels, innovative events, record community connectivity, and prestigious honors across New Hampshire and beyond.

From day one, there was a palpable sense of purpose and a fresh buzz surrounding our fleet, our crew, and our growing capabilities. Here is a look back at the milestones that defined 2026.

A Reborn Icon: The Winnipesaukee Belle

The defining visual of our summer was the relaunch of the Winnipesaukee Belle. Following an extensive renovation, the Belle returned to the lake with refreshed interiors, restored elegance, and modern guest amenities. Her return delivered an elevated cruising venue for both everyday passengers and private charters.

Triumphant Return to Alton Bay

One of the most meaningful moments this season was tying up our lines again in Alton Bay. In the spring of 2025, shifting ice flows snapped our stern cluster, compromising passenger safety and temporarily taking the port off our schedule.

Thanks to the dedicated marine construction expertise of Legacy Lake Builders, we officially made our long-awaited return in August 2026. Restoring safe access to the southern tip of the lake reunited us with a community we deeply cherish.

Unprecedented Port Connectivity

One of our proudest operational innovations this season was the rollout of our new schedule, anchored by the 3:00 PM departure from Weirs Beach.

By establishing a seamless midday transit between Weirs Beach and Wolfeboro, we unlocked unprecedented connectivity across Lake Winnipesaukee. Thousands of passengers disembarked to explore, dine at lakeside restaurants, and shop through local boutiques—fostering real economic vitality for our shoreline communities while giving guests total freedom to design a full day on the lake.

Signature Collaborations & Returning Favorites

Our strongest seasons are built alongside incredible community partners, and 2026 saw two of our most beloved joint ventures reach new heights:

• Rail & Sail with the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad: We brought back—and expanded—this classic dual-journey experience, pairing vintage rail travel along the shoreline with scenic cruising across open water.

• Onboard Theatre with the Winnipesaukee Playhouse: Following last year's debut, we proudly launched our second collaborative theatrical production, turning the ship into an intimate floating stage for live professional performing arts.

Fresh Traditions

In addition to expanding our long-running partnerships, this season delivered an ambitious slate of brand-new signature cruises:

• Makers on the Mount: Celebrating local artisans, craftspeople, and New Hampshire creativity against open-water views.

• Lakes Region Lantern Festival: A breathtaking evening of light, water reflections, and shared community connection.

• Father’s Day Brunch: Giving families an elevated way to honor dads out on the water.

• The Royal Princess Tea: A sold-out delight for families, turning the Flagship Lounge into an enchanting experience for young royals.

New Captains at the Helm

The heart of our fleet is our crew. This season, we were proud to formally promote two longtime team members to Captain:

• Captain Michael Lewis

• Captain Evan Clinton

Navigating these waters takes local knowledge, technical precision, and unwavering focus on passenger safety. Mike and Evan represent the gold standard of that tradition, and we are proud to see them command our vessels.

Local, State & Global Recognition

Our team’s hard work earned historic praise from both industry peers and our incredible guests:

• Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award: Ranked among the top 10% of attractions worldwide, driven directly by verified reviews from guests around the globe.

• Best of the 603: Voted the region's best for the fifth consecutive year, solidifying our place as a Granite State staple.

• NH Business Review Business Excellence Award: Awarded to our General Manager, Jared Maraio, recognizing bold operational leadership and sustained community impact.

• Lakes Region Tourism Association Annual Tourism Award: Awarded to Jared Maraio for the creation and development of the Lakes Region Lantern Festival, celebrating outstanding individual contribution to regional tourism.

Summer 2027 Starts Now

While our ships may be tied up for the winter, the planning for next year is already underway:

• The Gift of Summer Memories: Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Our gift certificates make an ideal present for lake lovers, families, and anyone who appreciates time spent on the water. Give the gift of a future cruise, sunset dinner, or signature event.

• Book Your 2027 Private Charter or Function: Dates for prime summer and fall weekend charters fill up quickly.Whether you are organizing a corporate retreat, family reunion, wedding, or milestone anniversary, our events team is actively booking the fleet—including the newly renovated Winnipesaukee Belle—for the 2027 season.

Thank You for Sailing with Us

To every passenger who stepped aboard, every family who celebrated a milestone on our decks, and our tireless shoreside and onboard staff: thank you. The energy this season was unmistakable, and we are already hard at work preparing the fleet for what comes next.

Until the ice melts and the engines turn over in the spring, we wish you a restful off-season. See you on the water in 2027.