BOSTON BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
On Deck Aboard the Motor Yacht Northern Lights: A Private-Charter Harbor Experience in Boston
A private charter aboard the Motor Yacht Northern Lights delivers classic New England styling, full catering and bar options, and professional crew service for bespoke events in Boston Harbor.
On Deck Aboard the Motor Yacht Northern Lights: A Private-Charter Harbor Experience in Boston.
Step aboard the Motor Yacht Northern Lights for a private charter that turns Boston Harbor into a room with a view. Operated by Classic Harbor Line, this 1920s–inspired motor yacht is designed to host groups for corporate outings, reunions, weddings and celebrations, with full catering, a professional, Coast Guard–certified crew and an attentive hospitality team to handle the details while you take in the harbor scenery.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Classic New England styling with modern comfort
The Northern Lights was built in the spirit of 1920s New England steamships and offers ample seating for groups—designed to carry up to 149 passengers—combining vintage lines with comfortable, climate-controlled interiors and open deck space for sightseeing.
Full catering, bar options and professional crew
Private charters come with full catering and bar options and are staffed by Coast Guard–certified captains and trained crewmembers known for their hospitality; the crew will handle provisioning, safety and guest comfort so hosts can focus on the event.
Designed for groups and events of many kinds
The Northern Lights is commonly chartered for corporate outings, seminars, conferences, meetings, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and family or alumni reunions—available as an exclusive private event from Rowes Wharf.
What the day feels like
What the charter feels like
Boarding at Rowes Wharf, your private charter departs Boston Harbor with the Northern Lights’ polished service in full view: a steady, spacious motor yacht with professional crew, a stocked bar and catered fare, blankets and life jackets available, and climate-controlled cabins should the weather change. The boat’s size and design make for a gentle, sight-seeing platform suited to celebrations and meetings alike.
THE VESSEL
Classic New England styling with modern comfort
The Northern Lights was built in the spirit of 1920s New England steamships and offers ample seating for groups—designed to carry up to 149 passengers—combining vintage lines with comfortable, climate-controlled interiors and open deck space for sightseeing.
THE SERVICE
Full catering, bar options and professional crew
Private charters come with full catering and bar options and are staffed by Coast Guard–certified captains and trained crewmembers known for their hospitality; the crew will handle provisioning, safety and guest comfort so hosts can focus on the event.
THE OCCASION
Designed for groups and events of many kinds
The Northern Lights is commonly chartered for corporate outings, seminars, conferences, meetings, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and family or alumni reunions—available as an exclusive private event from Rowes Wharf.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private charter suits — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Light layers for wind on deck; operators provide water, soda, blankets and life jackets aboard. The vessel also has multiple marine heads (bathrooms) and a climate-controlled cabin in case of rain.
Private-charter rates are posted on the operator’s website; prospective bookers are invited to call 617-951-0200 to arrange private events.
Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the boat, and gratuity is not included—parties of 12 or more will be contacted about an automatic 15% gratuity charge.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How do I book a private charter?
If you are interested in booking a private event, please call 617-951-0200.
Is there parking at Rowes Wharf?
Limited metered parking is available around Rowes Wharf. The Boston Harbor Hotel regular daily rate is $36, but after 5:00 pm on weekdays and anytime on weekends the rate is $12 with validation.
Are rates available in advance?
Rates to charter the boat are posted on the private charters page of Classic Harbor Line’s website (www.boston-sailing.com).
Is smoking allowed on board?
No. Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the boat.
Is the Northern Lights safe and equipped for guests?
Yes. The Northern Lights is described as a safe and gentle ship, staffed by a captain and two crewmembers; the vessel is stocked with water, soda, blankets and life jackets and has multiple marine heads.
Will I get seasick on this cruise?
The harbor is fairly calm on most days and the Northern Lights is a large, steady boat; seasickness is rare, though guests sensitive to motion may want to consider light medication (the operator cannot officially advise medication).
Are cruises ever cancelled due to bad weather?
In the rare situation where the operator must cancel, ticket-holders can reschedule (subject to availability), receive credit toward a future event, or receive a refund.
Is gratuity included?
Gratuity is not included. Parties of 12 or more will be contacted directly within 48 hours of purchasing tickets to provide credit card information for an additional 15% gratuity charge.
Is the vessel wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, the Northern Lights is not wheelchair accessible; callers are encouraged to contact the operator to discuss options.
Where does the cruise begin and end?
Charters depart from Rowes Wharf and the cruise will end at the same wharf from which it departed.