Free Access

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park is for everyone! The Boston Harbor Islands Partnership is committed to providing free and reduced-fare opportunities for groups and individuals.

Island Pass

Connect your community with their local public parklands and discover the wonders of nature by exploring the scenic and historic Boston Harbor Islands with your group!

Your school, camp, or community group may be eligible for FREE access to the Boston Harbor Islands.

Applications for the 2024 Island Pass program are now open!

Apply Here

The Boston Harbor Islands Partnership provides FREE access to the park for underserved populations through the Island Pass program. This program is sponsored by Boston Harbor Now, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, and the National Park Service, and is made possible in part by generous support from Boston Harbor City Cruises, the Cummings Foundation and many other community partners.

What to Know for Your Trip

  • A maximum of 100 free tickets can be reserved per group.
  • Group leaders should pick up tickets 30 minutes prior to departure.
  • Groups must have one adult chaperone for every ten youth under 18 years old. Chaperones must remain with the group at all times.
  • Bring a lunch, sunscreen, and water.
  • The Islands have a carry-on, carry-off policy. All trash must be collected and brought off the island. Please pack a sturdy trash bag(s) for your group’s trash needs.
  • Ferries depart rain or shine.
  • Visit our park calendar to learn what is happening in the park the day of your visit.
  • If you’re unable to make your scheduled free access trip, please email boha_information@nps.gov within 48 hours.
  • If ferries cannot run because of severe inclement weather, cancellations will be communicated before 9 AM to the contact person designated on the Free Access Application.

FAQs

  • Any group of 25 or more visiting Georges, Spectacle, Lovells, Peddocks, Bumpkin, or Grape Islands is required to fill out a free Group Authorization Form. If you filled out the Free Island Pass application, a Group Authorization Form is automatically filled out for you.

  • Remember to arrive 20 to 30 minutes before your boat is scheduled to depart. Bathrooms are available on the boat. The boat ride is a great time take in the sights of Boston Harbor, grab a snack and prepare for a trip outdoors. Take the time to apply sunscreen, hydrate, and layer appropriate clothing for the weather.

  • Georges, Spectacle and Peddocks Islands are the most popular to visit with groups. They all have visitor centers with restrooms and running water.

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