M/S Mount Washington cleared to start season

LACONIA — With the successful completion of its annual inspection by the New Hampshire Departments of Safety, Marine and Fire Safety Divisions, the venerable M/S Mount Washington returned to its summer port of Weirs Beach Wednesday and is ready to kick off its 2015 cruising season.

The New Hampshire Department of Safety annually inspects the vessels before issuing the cruise line its license to operate. "Safety is the number one priority with our vessels and our relationship with the Marine and Fire Safety Divisions is very important to us," says Captain Paul Smith. "We are in contact with them throughout the year and open to their suggestions in how to improve our operation in terms of safety. In addition we're always making improvements and updating older systems with the newer technology available."

Upholding a longstanding tradition, Mother's Day Brunch Cruise, on Sunday, May 10 will be the first cruise available to the public, which will feature two brunches at 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. The two and a half hour scenic cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee feature a champagne brunch and entertainment for all ages. Tickets are available for both.

The official 2015 daily cruising season for the M/S Mount Washington, and her sister vessels, runs from Saturday, May 16 until Sunday, October 18 offering daily cruises from its summer port of Weirs Beach and servicing the other ports of Alton Bay, Center Harbor, Meredith and Wolfeboro. Cruising times and options vary depending on the season with July and August having the most cruises available. Options include daily scenic, evening dinner dance and island mail delivery cruises. To learn more about the various vessels and to view a more complete schedule with times and ticket prices, visit www.cruisenh.com or call 603-366-5531.