Spend a day with Essex Heritage this summer at Bakers Island Light!
Essex Heritage is the non-profit organization that operates and maintains the 10-acre light station at Bakers Island, with the mission of public access and preservation. For the health and safety of our guests, staff, volunteers, private island residents, and the entire community, Essex Heritage will offer limited access to Bakers Island Light during the 2020 season.
We are adhering to the current safety recommendations and following state and federal guidelines regarding COVID-19 in order to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus. We will also implement our own guidelines to further mitigate the risk.
We are adhering to the current safety recommendations and following state and federal guidelines regarding COVID-19 in order to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus. We will also implement our own guidelines to further mitigate the risk.
Join the team!
- Enjoy a free scenic ride to Bakers Island on the landing craft, Naumkeag
- Help to maintain the buildings and grounds through various ongoing projects, including: gardening, painting, building, clearing, and more!
- Become part of a dedicated team of volunteers, and make new friends!
Wednesdays are Volunteer Days!
- Volunteer trips run on Wednesdays from June 17-September 16.
- Trips depart at 8:30am. You must arrive at the boat at least 15 minutes prior to departure.
- Boat departs from the Salem Ferry Dock at 10 Blaney Street in Salem, MA. There is free municipal parking available at the ferry dock. Parking is limited, so plan to arrive early in case of parking shortage.
- Registration is required due to limited space. Due to Covid-19, volunteer trips for the 2020 season will be small, and spaces will only be reserved for those who register in advance.
To register for a volunteer trip please contact Ryan at ryanc@essexheritage.org.
Additional information for the 2020 season:
- To reduce the risk of Covid-19 for our crew and other volunteers, all volunteers will be required to wear face masks while on board Naumkeag, as well as any time they are unable to maintain social distancing while on on the island.
- While on board Naumkeag, volunteers and crew will be separated to maintain proper social distancing. When the group arrives on the island, they will be split up at different work sites to also maintain proper social distancing.
What You Need To Know Before You Go!
How long is the volunteer day?
Volunteer days at Bakers Island typically last from 8:30am to 3:30pm. This includes the 30-minute ride to and from the island.
Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.
Please Note: The lighthouse CANNOT be climbed at this time.
What should I bring?
Rubber-soled shoes.
Flip-flops not recommended; NO heels.
Work clothes.
Tools for specific work. Bagged lunch.
PLENTY OF WATER! (there is no drinking water available on the island)
IMPORTANT: It's colder on the water and there is no shelter from the weather on our open boat. Bring an extra layer!
What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it. You will be exposed to the elements going to and from the island.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is NOT permitted on the boat or anywhere on the island.
Are there bathroom facilities?
There are bathrooms at the Salem Ferry dock, but no bathrooms on the boat. Once on the island, there is a composting toilet facility at the Light Station.
Questions?
Please call Essex Heritage's Visitor Information Desk (located in the National Park Service Visitor Center) at 978-224-2036.
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.