Boston Day Tour by Ferry: Salem Witch Trials Past to Present

Imagine stepping back in time to Salem, Massachusetts, a town steeped in history and haunted by its infamous witch trials. For around $129 per person, you can enjoy an 8.5-hour adventure that combines a scenic ferry ride, engaging museums, lively walking tours, and plenty of free time to explore at your own pace.

What we love about this experience is its combination of transportation and intimate exploration: the ferry not only offers fantastic views of Boston Harbor and the coast but also sets a relaxed tone for the day. Plus, the small group size—no more than 14 people—means you get personalized attention from your local guide and the ability to ask plenty of questions.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the itinerary varies slightly depending on the day of the week, with either the Salem Witch Museum or the Real Pirates Salem Museum included. Sometimes this might affect your focus, but both provide valuable insights into Salem’s diverse past.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, those interested in local culture, and travelers looking for a hassle-free way to visit Salem from Boston without the stress of driving or parking. If you’re eager to learn about the witch trials, sail in style, and enjoy flexibility, this trip is a solid option.

Key Points

Scenic ferry ride offers beautiful views and a relaxing start to your day.
Small-group size enhances personal interaction and comfort.
Two museum choices depending on the day—either the Salem Witch Museum or Real Pirates.
Flexible itinerary with free time for shopping, dining, or further exploration.
Authentic insights from knowledgeable guides provide a richer understanding of Salem’s history.
Good value for the experience, especially considering included ferry tickets and museum admissions.

Planning more time in Salem? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

A Detailed Look at the Salem Day Tour by Ferry

When planning a day trip from Boston to Salem, this tour provides an efficient, well-rounded look at Salem’s past and present, with the added bonus of scenic transportation. The roundtrip ferry from Boston, included in the ticket price, is a highlight in itself. Expect to board early in the morning at 9:30 am, enjoying views of Boston Harbor Islands as you cruise up the coast—something many travelers find more memorable than a car ride.

The Ferry Experience

The ferry ride takes roughly an hour, during which you’ll get sweeping views of the coastline and Boston’s skyline. Several reviews highlighted how much they appreciated this part of the trip: “The ferry ride was the best part. Great weather/views!” (AnnaMaria_C). The gentle passage across the water sets a laid-back tone for the day, allowing you to relax and take in your surroundings.

Salem Witch Museum or Real Pirates Salem

Depending on the day, you’ll visit either the Salem Witch Museum or the Real Pirates Salem Museum. The Witch Museum transports visitors back to 1692, offering a powerful narrative about the infamous trials. It’s a chance to learn about the key figures, the hysteria, and see how these events still resonate today. One reviewer remarked: “Our guide Elizabeth was so knowledgeable and friendly,” emphasizing how guides bring the story to life.

On weekends (Friday and Saturday), you’ll explore Salem’s maritime history at the Real Pirates Salem Museum. This museum reveals a different facet of Salem’s past, focusing on pirates, trade, and seafaring life that predate and postdate the witch hysteria. Guests often find it a surprising angle: “Piracy shaped Salem’s history even before and after the trials,” a reminder that Salem is more than just witches.

Walking Tour of Salem

After the museums, the tour continues with a walking tour of Salem’s streets—an opportunity to see historic landmarks, bustling shops, and the town’s architecture. The walk lasts about an hour and is designed to retrace Salem’s footsteps as a once-prosperous seaport, home to merchants, sailors, and even pirates. You’ll visit the Salem Witch Trials Memorial—a poignant spot that features survivors’ proclamations of innocence—and the Burying Point, Salem’s oldest cemetery, where notable figures rest.

While you're exploring Salem, here are other experiences we've looked into

Reflecting at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial

The memorial, dedicated in 1992, honors the victims of the witch hysteria, featuring excerpts from court transcripts that emphasize innocence. It’s a meaningful place for reflection, especially if you’re interested in the darker chapters of American history. One reviewer appreciated this stop: “The memorial commemorates the 20 victims in their own words,” making the experience more personal.

Pop Culture and Modern Salem

From here, the tour shifts gears with a visit to the Bewitched Statue, celebrating the 1970s sitcom filmed in Salem, and the Ropes Mansion Gardens, which gained fame from Disney’s Hocus Pocus. These spots offer a whimsical touch and a chance for some fun photos or a moment of relaxation in Salem’s lush gardens.

Visiting Historic Landmarks

The Witch House—the only remaining home directly tied to the trials—is an important stop. Although entrance isn’t included, standing outside gives a sense of Salem’s haunted atmosphere. The tour also includes ample free time, about two hours, for you to explore shops, enjoy lunch, or visit other sites on your list. The guide will offer recommendations, ensuring you make the most of your extra time.

Practical Details and Group Size

With a maximum of 14 travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience, ideal for those who prefer engaging guides and smaller groups. The total duration of the ferry trip back to Boston is approximately 1.5 hours, with some trips in April, May, and November relying on the MBTA train due to seasonal changes.

Value for Money

While $129 might seem steep at first glance, it includes ferry tickets, museum admissions, and the guided tour—all of which can add up if you try to organize independently. Several reviews highlighted how the ferry ride and the knowledgeable guides made the experience worthwhile: “The boat ride was also great with great views of Boston,” (Mark_N). The inclusion of personal insights and the scenic journey make this a balanced, high-value experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour appeals most to history lovers and those curious about Salem’s complex past, especially the witch trials. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and the ferry ride adds a special flair that’s often missing from land-based tours. If you enjoy a relaxed pace with free time for independent exploration, this format suits you well.

However, if you’re seeking a deep dive into every detail or prefer a more comprehensive historical narration, some reviews suggest the tour might leave you wanting more—particularly if you’re eager for detailed storytelling or extensive museum visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from Boston included?
Yes, the round-trip ferry tickets from Boston to Salem are included in the tour price. The tour starts at 9:30 am at 200 Atlantic Ave in Boston.

How long does the ferry ride take?
The ferry ride lasts about an hour each way, offering scenic views of Boston Harbor Islands and the coast.

What museums are included?
Depending on the day, you’ll visit either the Salem Witch Museum (Sun-Thursday) or the Real Pirates Salem Museum (Friday and Saturday). Admission is included in the tour fee.

Is there free time to explore Salem on my own?
Yes, after the scheduled stops, you’ll have approximately two hours to visit shops, dine, or see additional sites like the Witch House or other attractions.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 people, making for a more personalized experience.

Are the tours suitable for all walking levels?
Yes, but keep in mind it’s a walking tour with some standing and light walking involved. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace comfortably.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, as per the policy.

Final Thoughts

A ferry trip to Salem offers more than just a visit to a historic town—it’s a chance to enjoy beautiful views, learn about stories that echo through the centuries, and explore at your own pace. With a knowledgeable guide, a small group setting, and free time to pursue your personal interests, this tour strikes a good balance of structured sightseeing and independent discovery.

While the itinerary may vary slightly by day, the core experience remains engaging and flexible. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a relaxed, scenic journey with meaningful insights into Salem’s past—whether your interest lies in the witch trials, maritime history, or popular culture.

If you’re eager to combine transportation, education, and leisure on a single day, this tour makes a compelling choice. Just remember, it’s about quality over quantity—so if you want an immersive, personalized adventure, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized day exploring Salem’s stories, with the added charm of a scenic ferry ride. It offers good value, engaging guides, and enough free time to make your visit truly your own—making it a memorable piece of your Massachusetts trip.