We embarked on the 80 foot Adirondack III, a schooner that sails out of Rowes Wharf in Boston, on what turned out to be a perfect, sunny, warm summer night. Classic Harbor Line offers many different cruises around Boston Harbor; we chose the one which gives you the option of participating in a Harpoon beer tasting on board.
The crew was welcoming; we shoved off on time at 6:30 headed out into the harbor. As two of only 5 Harpoon tasting ticket holders, we were escorted to the back of the boat right in from of the captain where there we could sit on cushions on the side, soon one of the crew brought out a plate of cheese and crackers, then we were joined by our Harpoon host Conner. A young energetic guy, he seemed to love his job (and who wouldn’t). His knowledge about the company as well as all being able to rattle off a plethora of information on all the beers produced by the Boston based brewery was pretty impressive. Each of the 5 different brews (maybe 4oz. each) were brought out and served each with a new set of Brewery lore. Note, they also sell beer and wine upfront in the regular part of the cruise, of course I assume minus the Harpoon theatrics.
The views were amazing, when the captain shut off the engine and we were under full sail, the sound of warm breezes over the sails is something you have to experience to appreciate. Two hours into the trip the captain asked if anyone had any dinner reservations, since no one did, she said we'd do an extra 20 minutes as the wind and sunset were cooperating.
location: Rowes Wharf Boston (Classic Harbor Line 60 Rowes Wharf)
Cost : you can take the sunset cruise only for $55, the Harpoon tasting is an additional $16. The price of the Harpoon add on might seem a little stiff for some unless you consider the cost of a couple of beers in Boston with horderves, plus at the end Conner handed out tokens for a free tour/tasting at the Brewery itself ($5 value).. Parking at Rowes Wharf is $12, be sure and get your parking ticket validated when you stop by the Sunset Cruise desk to pick up your ticket. Bring a picnic dinner if you want, I saw some folks with take out from some local restaurants.