Seasonal 'Cruise With a Naturalist' returns for exploration on Squam Lake

HOLDERNESS — One of Squam Lakes Natural Science Center's most immersive educational experiences has returned. Cruise with a Naturalist is once again taking visitors onto Squam Lake, offering a chance to explore one of New Hampshire's beautiful landscapes and wildlife.

More than a sightseeing tour, Cruise with a Naturalist gives guests the chance to experience Squam Lake through the perspective of a naturalist. Each cruise will take visitors through quiet coves and around forested islands in search of common loons, bald eagles, and other native wildlife while uncovering the lake's rich ecology, natural history, and conservation story. Because no two cruises follow the same route, every trip offers new wildlife encounters and discoveries.

The Science Center also continues its seasonal Loon Cruise through Aug. 21. Recently featured on New Hampshire Chronicle's July 13 broadcast, the Loon Cruise offers visitors the opportunity to experience Squam Lake alongside a Science Center naturalist and a biologist from the Loon Preservation Committee while learning about Common Loon biology, monitoring, and conservation. Routes are selected to maximize opportunities for loon observations, and a portion of proceeds supports the Loon Preservation Committee's conservation work throughout New Hampshire.

In addition to these specialty cruises, guests can also enjoy the daily Discover Squam Cruise, a guided tour highlighting the lake's natural history and cultural stories, including connections to the filming location of "On Golden Pond." 

All Squam Lakes Cruises are approximately 90 minutes long aboard covered pontoon boats designed for comfortable wildlife viewing. Advance reservations are required. To learn more or reserve tickets, visit nhnature.org.