Sunapee Cruises

Operating from the public docks at 1 Lake Avenue in Sunapee, Sunapee Cruises provides one of the primary ways to experience the waters of Lake Sunapee. This long-standing, family-operated business functions as a specialized tour operator, focusing exclusively on water-based sightseeing tours. With a high customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 from over 130 reviews, the company has established a strong reputation, though prospective customers should be aware of some varied feedback, particularly concerning the dining experience.

The Onboard Experience and Fleet

Sunapee Cruises operates a fleet that includes the M.V. Mount Sunapee II and the M.V. Sunapee Lake Queen. The M.V. Mount Sunapee II, a vessel with a history dating back to its launch in 1965, handles the daily scenic tours. It features both an open-air top deck and an enclosed lower deck, allowing for comfortable viewing regardless of the weather. The M.V. Sunapee Lake Queen, a newer addition, is an air-conditioned boat with two enclosed dining decks and a top-deck walkway, primarily used for the dinner cruises. A consistent highlight across numerous customer accounts is the captain's narration. Passengers frequently commend the captains for being knowledgeable, engaging, and joyful, sharing historical facts, local lore, and pointing out landmarks. These points of interest include the lake's three historic lighthouses, beautiful lakeside homes—including that of Aerosmith's Steven Tyler—and distant mountain views of Mount Kearsarge, Mount Sunapee, and even Vermont's Mount Ascutney on clear days. This educational component transforms the cruise from a simple boat ride into an informative travel experience.

Types of Excursions Offered

The company structures its offerings around two main types of boat tours, catering to different schedules and preferences.

• Scenic Lake Tours: These are 90-minute narrated trips typically held in the afternoon aboard the M.V. Mount Sunapee II. They are designed for all ages and focus entirely on the sights and history of the lake. This option is ideal for those whose primary interest is the scenery and local history.
• Dinner Cruises: These two-hour evening cruises aboard the M.V. Sunapee Lake Queen combine the scenic tour with a full meal. Departing around sunset, they offer a different ambiance and are popular for special occasions. The schedule shifts from a 6:30 PM departure in the summer to 5:30 PM after Labor Day to align with the sunset.

A Closer Look at the Dining

The food served on the dinner cruise is a significant point of discussion and presents the most inconsistency in customer feedback. The meal is served as a buffet, prepared by the same family that owns the cruise line and also runs Fenton's Landing, a local deli. Many patrons describe the food in glowing terms, using words like "excellent," "delicious," and "perfect." Reviews often praise the variety, which can include roast beef, pulled pork, mac and cheese, salads, and vegetables, followed by cake and coffee. For those celebrating milestones, the quality of the meal has been a highlight that complements the overall festive atmosphere.

However, it is crucial for potential customers to know that not all experiences are the same. At least one detailed review noted that the food "left a lot to be desired," suggesting that the culinary aspect did not match the quality of the scenic journey. This guest recommended opting for the scenic tour instead to focus solely on the views. This mixed feedback suggests that while the buffet satisfies many, discerning diners or those with high culinary expectations might view the meal as secondary to the main attraction of being on the water. It stands as the most prominent potential drawback for an otherwise highly-praised service.

Customer Service and Private Events

Where Sunapee Cruises truly shines, according to a consensus of patrons, is its customer service. The staff and crew are consistently described as delightful, kind, amazing, and attentive. One of the most telling anecdotes involved the staff calling a guest who was running late, helping them find parking at the dock, and waiting for them to board. This level of personal attention is a significant asset.

This commitment to service extends to private events. The company is well-regarded as a venue for celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, and even weddings. Reviews from customers who have booked the vessel for group travel and private parties are overwhelmingly positive, praising the coordination (a staff member named Chip was specifically mentioned for his incredible work) and the outstanding service that made their events memorable. This makes it a strong choice for anyone looking to arrange a unique celebration or corporate outing.

Practical Information for Potential Customers

Booking: Due to the popularity of the cruises, especially the dinner option on weekends, making booking reservations in advance is highly recommended. This can be done online through their website or by phone.

Logistics: The cruises depart from 1 Lake Avenue in Sunapee Harbor. While parking can sometimes be a challenge, the staff has been known to assist. The boats are equipped with bathrooms, and wheelchair accessibility is available for the entrance.

What to Expect: The atmosphere is generally relaxed and friendly, with passengers often waving to other boaters on the lake. Music is played when the captain is not narrating. It's advisable to bring a light jacket, as it can get breezy on the water, even in the summer. The vessels sail rain or shine, with enclosed areas providing shelter.

Final Assessment

Sunapee Cruises offers a compelling and highly-rated service that stands out as a premier tourist attraction in the Lake Sunapee region. The core strengths are undeniable: a beautiful setting, a relaxing atmosphere, exceptionally friendly and accommodating staff, and an engaging historical narration that adds depth to the journey. It is an excellent choice for family travel, romantic evenings, and particularly for private celebrations. The primary consideration for any potential customer is the dinner cruise, where the food has received both high praise and pointed criticism. For those prioritizing a scenic and educational journey with top-tier service, this travel agency is an outstanding choice. For those for whom the meal is the most critical part of a dinner cruise, the mixed reviews warrant consideration when making a decision.