Vintage mahogany boat carries visitors through Lake Winnipesaukee history

MOULTONBOROUGH — As the summer season gets underway on Lake Winnipesaukee, one of the region's most distinctive ways to experience the water is also one of its oldest in spirit. The Millie B, a 28-foot mahogany triple-cockpit “woodie” operated by the New Hampshire Boat Museum, departs daily from the Wolfeboro Town Docks, carrying passengers on narrated tours that double as a moving lesson in local history.

A replica of a 1928 Hacker-Craft, the Millie B is built to vintage specifications, accurate down to its historic seat colors and period fittings. The result is a rare working example of the wooden boats that dominated the waters a century ago when Lake Winnipesaukee was at the center of New England's recreational boating culture.

“The Millie B is the quintessential New Hampshire Boat Museum experience," said Devon Kurtz, executive director of NHBM. "It brings our region's boating heritage to life in a way nothing else can.”

Lasting one hour, the tour follows a route past lakeside homes, historic boathouses, and a protected Loon Sanctuary, where passengers occasionally spot a loon chick riding on its mother's back. Individual headsets allow each guest to hear the captain's narration covering the lake's history, geography, geology, and wildlife.

“It is more than a boat ride,” NHBM’s Anne Lennon said. “It is a journey into the heart of Lake Winnipesaukee … Our captains share the stories that make this lake so special.”

Beyond scheduled tours, the Millie B is regularly booked for private charters, including weddings and marriage proposals. Every ticket includes free admission to NHBM, and life vests are provided for children under 12. Tour times, availability, and ticket prices are posted at nhbm.org.