Boat Ride

Explore an amazing island home to deer, foxes, osprey, and other magnificent creatures. Once home to generations of the Choate family and later a retreat for Cornelius and Mine Crane Choate Island, Choate Island remains a magical place boasting miles of walking trails, historic buildings, and breathtaking views of Essex Bay. The day's festivities include optional walks, talks, a children's treasure hunt, and refreshments.  Park at Crane Beach, catch the shuttle at the boat dock, and your adventure begins.

Choate Island is the crown jewel of the Crane Wildlife Refuge and is only accessible by boat. Enjoy one stunning view after the next on this rare chance to explore the cultural and natural history of the island. Walk a 1.5 mile network of carriageways and footpaths that lead past The Proctor Barn, White Cottage, and Choate House, all the way to the top of the island where the Crane Family burial ground looks out over Plum Island Sound. This tour includes a complimentary boat ride from the Crane Estate boat dock to Choate Island and back.

Olde Fashioned Sunday in Downtown Newburyport will be a great day to remember the beginnings of our Yankee Homecoming celebrations. We can enjoy some “new” events so as to make future memories for the current younger generations as the past has given some of us the “good ole’ days” to remember. Olde Fashioned Sunday 2018 begins on the stage with the opportunity to show the audience your favorite pets. Every person and pet is a winner in this event. The formal opening of Yankee Homecoming will include the introduction of all the past chairperson and the singing of the national anthem.

Essex River Cruises hosts a narrated sightseeing tour that winds down the beautiful Essex River aboard Essex River Queen, a pontoon boat. Explore the marshes and discover a habitat brimming with abundant wildlife and the changing landscape that supports it. Bring along your binoculars, cameras and sketchbooks! You're bound to be inspired!