Portsmouth Harbor Sails with Gundalow Company

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, sits where the Piscataqua River meets the Atlantic, a place with deep maritime roots and rugged coastal charm. The Gundalow Company offers a unique way to engage with this history and environment through its sail trips, particularly the Sail to Wood Island Sail & Life Saving Station Tour. This 90-minute journey aboard a traditional gundalow—a flat-bottomed sailing barge native to New England—ushers passengers into the intersection of natural beauty and local heritage. Departing from Prescott Park, the vessel glides along the harbor, inviting riders to participate in classic sailing tasks like raising the sails while taking in the spacious river views and crisp ocean air.

Wood Island itself is a focal point of this adventure. Known for its now-abandoned Life Saving Station, the island is a reminder of the region’s coastal rescue history and maritime safety legacy. Passengers get a close look at this historic landmark, setting the scene for stories about the shipwrecks, lifesaving service, and seafaring culture that defined Portsmouth’s shoreline. Throughout the cruise, the knowledgeable crew shares insights into both the natural ecosystem of the Piscataqua and the human stories that paint it with meaning.

The Gundalow Company is more than a tour operator; it’s a nonprofit dedicated to preserving maritime heritage and fostering environmental awareness. Its offerings range from educational programs for kids to community hikes, making it a cornerstone of outdoor education in the area. The vessels blend old-fashioned charm with modern safety features such as onboard motors and life jackets, providing comfort and accessibility without sacrificing authenticity.

Whether you’re drawn by New England history, eager to feel the wind as you sail past bridges and seal-haunted waters, or simply looking for a peaceful but engaging harbor outing, the Gundalow Company presents a genuinely distinctive experience. It’s a trip that feels both like stepping back in time and connecting to a living, breathing part of Portsmouth’s outdoor and cultural landscape.