Map by Fred Carlson

A Visit to the Isles

It's possible to take a cruise by the Isles of Shoals, to tour the isles for a few hours or to stay longer for a field course in marine science or a religious or educational conference.

The Isles of Shoals Steamship Co. offers narrated day and evening cruises by the isles or a three-hour stopover at Star Island. For details, contact the company at (800) 441-4620 or (603) 431-5500 or read about their cruises at http://ww.islesofshoals.com.

The Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML) on Appledore offers courses for adults as part of its mission to introduce the public to marine science. In spring and summer, participants can choose between courses on the island's birds, marine mammals, geology or plant ecology. They can explore the Shoals' natural history, learn to paint the landscapes and seascapes in watercolors and pastels, or study celestial navigation and maritime history. There's even a course on Celia Thaxter's island garden. For information, call SML at (607) 255-3717 or visit its Web site.

Each summer the Star Island Corporation, operated by the Unitarian and Congregational churches, runs a series of conferences from the historic Oceanic Hotel. The conferences focus on a wide variety of religious themes, as well as on subjects such as natural history and the arts. SIC also hosts Elderhostel, which this summer offers programs in watercolor painting and birding. To learn more, contact them at (603) 430-6272 or see their Web site.