Boston Launch Company connects you with the good times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to make a reservation?
No! The phone goes directly to a working captain, and we’d prefer they stick with driving rather than booking reservations! We’re happy to reserve you a spot if your group is 8 or more, otherwise, come on down or give us a ring, we’re usually at any of our destinations within 10 minutes.
How often should I call the Launch?
As much as we’d love to hear from you often, usually just one call asking for a pick-up is necessary. The boats don’t have a set schedule but try to be at each stop every 10-15 minutes. Passenger volume, sea state, boat traffic and weather conditions all contribute to arrival times. Be patient, we’ll be right back!
Where do I meet the boats?
Come on down! You can meet our boats at Pier 6 in Charlestown, The Reel House dock in East Boston, the MBTA Lewis Wharf at The Tall Ship, also in East Boston, and on the outside face dock at Fan Pier just outside the Reel House Oyster Bar. If weather or boat traffic requires slight alternations to these locations, the captains will do their best to communicate alternatives with you.
Are drinks served on the boats?
No! We only serve safe comfortable rides, a bit of history and corny pirate jokes while on board our boats!
Do you go anywhere else besides the four stops listed on the website?
Yes we can! We are able to drop you off at any location on the harbor.
Are bikes allowed on board?
No. We do not have the space to transport bikes on board our boats.
How many passengers can the boats handle?
The US Coast Guard determines the safe capacity on each boat, often up to 18 passengers. During inclement weather and sea conditions, the captain may decide to limit capacity. Please do not ask to “squeeze a few more in, there’s room” as safe, legal operations and the captain’s license are at stake!
Can I take a cruise around the harbor?
Our mission is to deliver safe, timely and comfortable trips. Only if time permits during slower parts of the day, a captain may extend the trip and point out some of the amazing sites in the inner harbor.
Are pets allowed on board the boats?
As long as pets are leashed and under control, they are allowed unless they make other passengers uncomfortable. Service animals are always welcome.
Will I get seasick?
The majority of time the Boston Harbor is relatively calm and mal de mare is very rare!
Are the captains real captains?
Yes, each USCG licensed captain holds a minimum “25-ton master” credential, some with even higher tonnage. BTW, besides the years of experience and rigorous exams, a license also includes criminal background checks, random drug testing, physicals and eye exams, man overboard and fire drills, and each captain must hold a current first aid/CPR certifications.
Do you go to the Encore Casino or Reel House in Marina Bay?
Due to the distance and time required, our boats cannot go to these two great destinations. When cooler weather sets in, one of our Captains would prefer to head the boat south to the Bahamas but that is also too far.