Boston Day Tour by Ferry: Salem Witch Trials Past to Present

Travelers often find Salem irresistible for its notorious past and charming streets. This day trip from Boston promises a compact taste of Salem’s witch trials and maritime history, combined with a scenic ferry ride. As someone who’s seen a lot of tours like this, I’ll share what makes this experience worth considering—and where it might fall short.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to travel by ferry, which offers a lovely view of Boston Harbor and the coast, and the small group size (max 14 people), which makes for a more intimate experience. The inclusion of museum visits and free time allows for a good mix of guided learning and personal exploration.

A potential drawback is the limited time at some stops and the reliance on a guide who might not always be at full enthusiasm. If you’re after a deep, comprehensive dive into Salem’s complex history, this may feel a bit on the surface. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a pleasant overview with flexible free time, rather than an in-depth historical research experience.

If you’re curious about Salem’s history, love scenic boat rides, or want a manageable, well-organized day trip from Boston, this tour could be a perfect fit. Just keep in mind that it’s about balancing guided highlights with independent discovery rather than a deep-dive into every detail.

Key Points

• Scenic ferry ride adds a lovely touch, giving you views of Boston Harbor and the North Shore.
• Small group size means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Museum options vary by day, offering either the Salem Witch Museum or Real Pirates Salem.
• The itinerary mixes guided visits, historical landmarks, and free time for independent exploration.
• Tour duration of about 8.5 hours balances sightseeing without feeling rushed or overly long.
• The tour is good value considering the ferry, museum admissions, and guide.
• Some reviews suggest the guide’s enthusiasm can be hit or miss, affecting the overall vibe.
• Suitable for history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone with a passing interest in Salem’s stories.

A Complete Breakdown of the Experience

Starting off with the Ferry Ride

Your day begins early at 200 Atlantic Ave in Boston. You’ll board the ferry around 9:30 am, and the ride takes about an hour. This part of the tour is often highlighted as a favorite—passengers enjoy passive scenery with views of Boston Harbor Islands and the coast, which creates a relaxing start to the day.

Traveling by water rather than road makes the trip stand out. Plus, the round-trip ferry is included in the ticket price, which provides excellent value considering the scenic benefit and logistical convenience. Several reviews praised the views from the boat, noting it as “the best part” of the day, especially when weather cooperates.

Visiting the Salem Witch Museum or Real Pirates Salem

Depending on the day of your tour—Sunday to Thursday or Friday and Saturday—you’ll visit either the Salem Witch Museum or the Real Pirates Salem. This switch is a nice touch, offering a slightly different angle on Salem’s past.

• The Salem Witch Museum transports you back to 1692, with exhibits that explore the events, people involved, and their relevance today. You’ll walk away with a nuanced understanding of the witch trials’ tragic and complex history, as well as its relevance to modern culture.

• The Real Pirates Salem offers a maritime twist, focusing on Salem’s role as a major seaport, with stories of pirates and trade that shaped the town even before the witch trials. This can be a refreshing change for those interested in Salem’s seafaring past.

One review enthused, “The ferry ride was the best part,” emphasizing how the views and boat ride make the trip memorable. The museums are accessible, with tickets included, making the overall experience straightforward.

Walking Tour of Salem

Next, you’ll take a guided walk through Salem’s streets, retracing the steps of sailors, merchants, and, of course, those infamous witches. This part usually lasts about an hour and aims to hit the most notorious landmarks.

Highlights include the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, a poignant spot dedicated to victims from 1692. It features inscriptions from court transcripts, giving a sober reminder of the events. Nearby is the Burying Point, Salem’s oldest cemetery, where key figures are buried.

The Bewitched Statue is also on the list, celebrating Salem’s pop culture fame thanks to the classic sitcom. It’s a fun photo spot and a stark contrast to the somber memorials, reflecting Salem’s mix of history and modern-day witchcraft.

Exploring Salem on Your Own

Following the walking tour, you get around two hours of free time to explore, shop, or grab lunch. Reviewers often mention this as the best part—some used it to visit the Ropes Mansion and Garden (featured in Disney’s ‘Hocus Pocus’), or step inside the Witch House, the only building directly tied to the witch trials still standing.

Others appreciated the guide’s recommendations on where to eat and shop, which can make the free time more productive. However, one reviewer noted that last ferry times might limit exploration, so plan accordingly.

Returning to Boston

At around 3:30 pm (or 4 pm in some cases), you’ll board the return ferry for the trip back, which takes about 1.5 hours. This segment is relaxed, often enjoyed for its views, and offers a chance to reflect on the day.

What the Tours Don’t Cover

While the itinerary offers a solid overview, some reviews highlight that the guided portion is relatively short, with about 2 hours of walking and museum visits. Visitors looking for a deep dive into Salem’s witchcraft history or more time at specific sites may find this tour a bit rushed.

The museum visits are limited to one hour each, which might not be enough for those wanting more detailed exhibits. Also, entrance to certain sites like Ropes Mansion or the Witch House is not included, so if you want to explore these spots more thoroughly, you’ll need to pay separately.

The Guide and Group Size

One common point in reviews is the guide’s enthusiasm. While some found the guides extremely knowledgeable and friendly, others felt that some guides seemed less engaged. Since the group is capped at 14 people, it’s a cozy size, but the guide’s attitude can influence the whole experience.

Value for Money

At $129 per person, the tour includes ferry tickets, admission to one museum (depending on the day), and a guided walk. When you factor in the cost of ferry, museum entrances, and the convenience of having a well-organized schedule, many reviewers considered it good value. Especially compared to doing similar activities separately, it’s a time-efficient option.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a taste of Salem without spending too much time or money. It appeals to those who enjoy scenic boat rides and appreciate a small group setting for more personalized attention. History buffs will find value in the museums and memorials, but it’s not exhaustive.

It’s also suitable for folks who prefer a more relaxed pace and the flexibility of some free exploration time, rather than a full-day, highly structured tour. If you want a balanced, manageable glimpse into Salem’s past, this can be just right.

However, if you’re after a deep, detailed dive or plan to see every historic site in Salem, you might want to supplement this tour with additional visits.

Final Thoughts

The Boston Day Tour by Ferry provides a well-rounded, visually pleasing, and educational experience that combines transportation, history, and a touch of culture. The scenic boat ride, small group size, and museum inclusion make it a strong choice for travelers looking for convenience and a taste of Salem’s complex story.

While the guide’s enthusiasm can vary, many travelers walk away with a greater understanding of Salem’s past, along with memorable views and some personal freedom to explore. For those with a curiosity about Salem’s witch trials, maritime history, or pop culture, this tour hits a good middle ground—giving history without overwhelming.

If you’re the type who values comfort, moderate pacing, and scenic moments, this tour can be a delightful way to spend a day. Just be mindful that it offers a glimpse rather than an exhaustive deep dive. For a first taste of Salem, it’s a solid pick.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip ferry tickets are included in the price, starting from Boston to Salem. In April, May, and November, the return is by MBTA rail instead of ferry.

How long does the ferry ride take?
The ferry ride from Boston to Salem takes around an hour each way, offering scenic views of Boston Harbor and the coast.

What museums are visited on this tour?
Depending on the day, you’ll visit either the Salem Witch Museum (Sun-Thu) or Real Pirates Salem (Fri & Sat). Admission is included.

Are there free times during the tour?
Yes, after the guided walk, you have about two hours to explore Salem on your own, shop, or have lunch. The tour guide can suggest good spots.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The tour is suitable for most travelers who can walk at a moderate pace. It’s not specifically geared toward children, but families interested in history will find it engaging.

How is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for more interaction with the guide.

What should I bring for the free time?
Comfortable shoes are a must. If you want to explore sites like the Witch House or Ropes Mansion, plan to pay separately for entrance. Also, bring a camera and some cash for extras.

Can I customize this tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but the free time offers some flexibility. If you want to spend more time at specific sites, consider planning additional visits afterward.

Final Summary

This Boston Day Tour by Ferry offers a balanced look at Salem’s history, culture, and scenic views. It’s a great choice for those who want a manageable, well-organized day trip that combines guided insight with some personal exploration time. The scenic ferry ride and small group setting enhance the experience, making it more personal and relaxed.

While it might not satisfy those seeking an in-depth, comprehensive tour of Salem, it hits the right notes for a first visit or casual day trip. The value for money, especially with included ferry and museum tickets, makes this a worthwhile option—particularly for travelers who appreciate a scenic and educational outing without feeling rushed.

If you’re after a smooth, scenic, and informative way to see Salem’s highlights, this tour is worth considering—and with several options for museum visits and a relaxed pace, it can be tailored to suit many interests.