ISLIP BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Have It Either Way — Sail First or Dine Then Sail Aboard the 1888 Priscilla on the Connetquot
A narrated sail aboard the restored oyster boat Priscilla, departing from the Snapper Inn, that moves from the Connetquot River into the Great South Bay and lets riders participate in raising the sails.
Have It Either Way — Sail First or Dine Then Sail Aboard the 1888 Priscilla on the Connetquot.
Step aboard Priscilla at the Snapper Inn and slip back into the working waters of the south shore: the boat motors down the Connetquot River, pushes into the Great South Bay, and transitions from engine to canvas as the crew raises the sails. The voyage pairs a living history—Priscilla was launched in 1888 and was recently restored—with the option to help haul lines or simply listen to the Captain’s narrative while the bay unfolds around you.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Working Oyster Boat from 1888
Priscilla is a historic vessel launched in 1888 that now sails guests on the same waters she once worked, and her two‑year restoration and history are part of the Captain’s narration on every trip.
From River to Bay: Connetquot to Great South Bay
After departing the dock behind the Snapper Inn, Priscilla motors down the Connetquot River and then sails out into the Great South Bay, where the engine is shut down and guests experience pure sail.
Coast Guard–Certified Captain and Volunteer Crew
The boat is Coast Guard certified and run by a licensed Captain supported by an all‑volunteer crew; guests may join the crew in raising the sails or sit back and listen to the Captain’s stories about Priscilla and her restoration.
What the day feels like
What the Sail Feels Like
Board at the Snapper Inn, pass through the tidal narrow of the Connetquot River, then feel the shift as the crew hoists canvas in the Great South Bay and the engine is silenced. The Captain narrates Priscilla’s past and the recent restoration while passengers either help with lines or watch the bay roll by.
THE VESSEL
A Working Oyster Boat from 1888
Priscilla is a historic vessel launched in 1888 that now sails guests on the same waters she once worked, and her two‑year restoration and history are part of the Captain’s narration on every trip.
THE ROUTE
From River to Bay: Connetquot to Great South Bay
After departing the dock behind the Snapper Inn, Priscilla motors down the Connetquot River and then sails out into the Great South Bay, where the engine is shut down and guests experience pure sail.
THE CREW
Coast Guard–Certified Captain and Volunteer Crew
The boat is Coast Guard certified and run by a licensed Captain supported by an all‑volunteer crew; guests may join the crew in raising the sails or sit back and listen to the Captain’s stories about Priscilla and her restoration.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should check the details before booking.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Departures are from the Snapper Inn on the Connetquot River. The GPS address is 500 Shore Drive, Oakdale, NY 11769; the boat is docked behind the restaurant and free parking is available in the restaurant lot.
Sails run Wednesday through Sunday with standard departures at 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm; additional times are available on select days.
Adult and senior tickets include a $35 voucher; listed rates are Adults $85, Seniors (62+) $75, Children 12 and under $20.
Priscilla is Coast Guard certified and operated by a licensed Captain with volunteer crew; guests may be invited to help raise sails or to remain seated and listen to the Captain’s stories.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where do we meet the boat?
Boarding is at the Snapper Inn on the Connetquot River; the GPS address is 500 Shore Drive, Oakdale, NY 11769 and the boat is docked behind the restaurant.
When do sails depart?
Regular departures run Wednesday through Sunday at 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm, with additional times offered on select days.
What are the ticket prices?
Rates are Adults $85, Seniors (62 and over) $75, and Children 12 and under $20; adult and senior fares include a $35 voucher.
Can guests help with sailing?
Yes — if you are inclined you can join the volunteer crew in raising the sails; participation is optional and guided by the crew.
Is the boat safe and professionally operated?
Priscilla is Coast Guard certified and operated by a licensed Captain with an all‑volunteer crew; the Captain provides narration about the boat and its restoration.
Is parking available?
Yes — free parking is available in the Snapper Inn restaurant lot.