Granite State Stuff : cruise

The M/S Mount Washington prepares for winter greening and renovation

AskLisa — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 23:07:00 GMT

The M/S Mount Washington, a New Hampshire icon, is gearing up to go green over its next winter break. The boat will be refitted with new technology engines, and be renovated to serve the needs of tomorrow's tourism market.

"Over the past 137 years, the M/S Mount Washington engines will have gone from side-wheel to steam to diesel to green," said Glenn Gardner, Director of Sales at Mount Washington Cruises. "We're repowering to serve New Hampshire for the next generation."

The M/S Mount Washington's official season runs from May 23rd through October 24th, and after the attendees of 2009's last glittering cruise have gone ashore, the esteemed vessel will embark on a one million dollar renovation, focusing on recapturing the elegance of earlier years while significantly reducing polluting emissions.
The current Enterprise engines that power the Mount burn 33 gallons of fuel per hour. This is extremely efficient considering the size of the engines (615 hp each) and the ship. This winter, the M/S Mount Washington will be installing engines exceeding EPA Tier 2 marine engine standards, reducing NOx, PM, and CO2 emissions in 2010. An EPA grant will help fund the new engines.

"This renovation will help us to recapture the golden age of boating on Lake Winnipesaukee," continued Gardner. "Not only will we be able to offer a higher standard of elegance, but we will also be able to significantly reduce emissions. The last time the engine was replaced was in 1946, with its current twin diesel enterprise engines."

According to U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, "For generations the M/S Mount Washington has been providing New Hampshire families and tourists with a unique opportunity to take in the beauty of Lake Winnipesaukee from the decks of this historic vessel. I am happy to have supported this funding, which will help to ensure that future generations are able experience the same sights while protecting the important resources of the Lakes Region by using environmentally friendly green engines."

U.S. Senator Judd Gregg said, "When visiting Lake Winnipesaukee it is impossible not to recognize the beauty of the M/S Mount Washington. For more than 130 years, this iconic ship has been the most distinguished symbol on the Lake. These competitively awarded grant funds will provide for needed repairs and renovations, and the installation of new environmentally friendly engines. These important upgrades will reduce pollution in the Lake and ensure that the Mount is able to navigate the waters for generations of visitors and residents to come."

The current twin 615 horsepower Enterprise diesel engines were installed in the spring of 1946 at the conclusion of WWII. At the time, all steam equipment was removed and replaced with electrical power including the steering plant and propellers. The wheelhouse was also moved from the second deck to the third deck to improve viability.

Its original steam engines, which had been taken years earlier from a ship on Lake Champlain, Vermont, were replaced by Enterprise diesel engines, which added 30 tons to the ship's weight and enable it to be run on electricity.

The pre-existing steam engines had to be removed and the two new diesel engines lowered into place by 25-ton chainfalls. After these renovations, the state of New Hampshire's Public Service Commission inspected and licensed the vessel for sail during August of 1946.

"When I first came into this company some thirty years ago, I had the honor to work with many of the people that brought the M/S Mount Washington to New Hampshire in 1940," adds Jim Morash, Captain and General Manager of Mount Washington Cruises. "It is my privilege to know that someday this New Hampshire landmark can be passed on to the next generation in a condition that will ensure its existence for many years to come."

For 63 years, the twin diesel Enterprise engines have faithfully served visitors and residents of New Hampshire. This season, the staff and crew of the M/S Mount Washington plan to commemorate the rich history of the engines with special tours of the engine room and screenings of a short historical video in the Steamboat Lounge during daytime scenic cruises.

"This season offers the last opportunity to experience the Mount the way your father and grandfather did," emphasized Gardner.

The "Enterprise" company was so-named by its German immigrant founder in about 1886 because he believed the United States was truly the "land of enterprise."

During World War II, the Enterprise Engine company built hundreds of diesel engines for the United States Navy. Very few of the Enterprise engines remain in use today and, among those that are, most are being used in tugboats.

In the past 137 years, there have been only two vessels on Lake Winnipesaukee, NH, named Mount Washington. A 175' side-wheeler steamer (1872-1939) and a 230' diesel vessel (1940-present). In the early days, the side-wheeler made stops at Bear Island, Long Island, Diamond Island and Glendale in addition to her normal ports of call of Center Harbor, Wolfeboro, Alton Bay and Weirs Beach. The side-wheeler Mount Washington was built in Alton Bay at a cost of $62,000 while the present-day Mount was built in Lakeport at a cost of $125,000.

The first Mount had four Captains in her 67-year history, while the present day Mount has had 12 Captains (5 currently) in her 63 years on the lake. It takes a minimum of seven crew members just to take the ship out of port. However, the Mount usually carries an average of 15 crew each cruise. Mount Washington Cruises employs 15 people year-round and hires over 100 each year for the operating season.

The M/S Mount Washington is a 230 ft. ship with 4 levels, 3 dance floors, and several outside areas for enjoying the cruise during the daytime or evening.

It is also possible to check in on a cruise from anywhere by accessing the web camera on the website http://www.cruisenh.com. The camera is mounted above the wheelhouse, providing a captain's view.

The family-owned Mount operates May through October, offering daytime scenic, evening dinner & dance, and special themed cruises. With a capacity of 1,250 passengers, the Mount serves as the largest restaurant in the state and a popular gathering point for school proms, college reunions, large corporate celebrations and weddings – approximately 700 happy couples have tied the knot aboard the M/S Mount Washington.

To learn more about Mount Washington Cruises' 137th cruising season, to request a brochure, purchase gift certificates, as well as a variety of season passes, please call toll-free 1-888-843-6686, local 603-366-5531, or visit their website for cruise schedule information at http://www.cruisenh.com.

Party on the Mount this July 4th

AskLisa — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 02:36:00 GMT

The M/S Mount Washington is partying on July 4th and invites families aboard to join the fun. Passengers can enjoy an evening of dining and dancing while cruising the lake looking for fireworks. The July 4th Fireworks Party Cruise departs from Weirs Beach, and is from 7 to 10 p.m. All tickets cost $49. The boarding time for this cruise is 6:15 p.m.

The M/S Mount Washington offers dinner dance cruises four nights a week on Lake Winnipesaukee from Weirs Beach. All dinner dance cruises include a buffet dinner. The M/S Mount Washington is a smoke-free vessel.

The M/S Mount Washington is a large ship on 4 levels with 3 dance floors, several outside areas for enjoying the cruise at sunset or by moonlight. Lake Winnipesaukee is truly magical at night.

The M/S Mount Washington's official season runs from May 23rd through October 24th.

It is also possible to check in on a cruise from anywhere by accessing the web camera on the website www.cruisenh.com. The camera is mounted above the wheelhouse, providing a captain's view.

The family-owned Mount operates May through October, offering daytime scenic, evening dinner & dance, and special themed cruises. With a capacity of 1,250 passengers, the Mount serves as the largest restaurant in the state and a popular gathering point for school proms, college reunions, large corporate celebrations and weddings.

To learn more about Mount Washington Cruises 137th cruising season, to request a brochure, purchase gift certificates, as well as a variety of season passes, please call toll-free (888) 843-6686, local (603) 366-5531, or visit their website for cruise schedule information at http://www.cruisenh.com.

Rock-n-Roll Monday Nights on the Mount

AskLisa — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:52:00 GMT

If you are young at heart or looking for a party with a retro vibe this summer, the M/S Mount Washington is the place to be on Monday nights. Beginning, Monday June 29, the Mount will be Rocking and Rolling along Lake Winnipesaukee while offering dinner and dancing.

The Rock, Roll & Remember cruise departs from Weirs Beach and is from 6 to 9 p.m. (boarding time is 5:15 p.m.). On Monday evenings the M/S Mount Washington honors the young at heart. Cool musical tunes range from the "Fabulous 50s" to "Rock-n-Roll." These nights are a great way for the big daddies and cool cats to get together for a nostalgic bash on Lake Winnipesaukee. Passengers over 60 years of age receive a $10 discount off the regular ticket price which is $43 per person. Ticket prices are adults: $43, children: $33, seniors (60+): $33. These Monday evening cruises run through August 31.

Monday, July 13, offers a special cruise theme "Tribute to Elvis." This evening is dedicated to Elvis and his music. Enjoy an evening of dining and dancing with other Elvis fans aboard the M/S Mount Washington while cruising Lake Winnipesaukee. Other special themed Monday evening cruises are featured throughout the summer. Check the dinner and dance schedule at http://www.cruisenh.com/schedule.html for more information.

The M/S Mount Washington is a large ship on 4 levels with 3 dance floors, several outside areas for enjoying the cruise at sunset or by moonlight. Lake Winnipesaukee is truly magical at night.

The M/S Mount Washington's official season runs from May 23rd through October 24th.

It is also possible to check in on a cruise from anywhere by accessing the web camera on the website www.cruisenh.com. The camera is mounted above the wheelhouse, providing a captain's view.

The family-owned Mount operates May through October, offering daytime scenic, evening dinner & dance, and special themed cruises. With a capacity of 1,250 passengers, the Mount serves as the largest restaurant in the state and a popular gathering point for school proms, college reunions, large corporate celebrations and weddings.

To learn more about Mount Washington Cruises 137th cruising season, to request a brochure, purchase gift certificates, as well as a variety of season passes, please call toll-free (888) 843-6686, local (603) 366-5531, or visit their website for cruise schedule information at http://www.cruisenh.com.

Romance on Lake Winnipesaukee

AskLisa — Thu, 21 May 2009 21:46:00 GMT

Enjoy the romance of Lake Winnipesaukee at night. Passengers can dance the night away and enjoy a buffet dinner all aboard the M/S Mount Washington. On Saturday, June 6, the Mount will depart from Weirs Beach for this special Dining and Dancing cruise.

The Dining and Dancing cruise departs from Weirs Beach at 7 p.m. and returns at 10 p.m. This special cruise features a seafood and beef buffet dinner and live entertainment. Adult tickets cost $49 per person.

The M/S Mount Washington's official season runs from May 23rd through October 24th.

It is also possible to check in on a cruise from anywhere by accessing the web camera on the website http://www.cruisenh.com. The camera is mounted above the wheelhouse, providing a captain's view.

The family-owned Mount operates May through October, offering daytime scenic, evening dinner & dance, and special themed cruises. With a capacity of 1,250 passengers, the Mount serves as the largest restaurant in the state and a popular gathering point for school proms, college reunions, large corporate celebrations and weddings.

To learn more about Mount Washington Cruises 137th cruising season, to request a brochure, purchase gift certificates, as well as a variety of season passes, please call toll-free (888) 843-6686, local (603) 366-5531, or visit their website for cruise schedule information at http://www.cruisenh.com.

Relax on Labor Day with lobster and sunsets on the M/S Mount Washington

AskLisa — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 23:36:00 GMT

Weirs Beach, NH—This Labor Day weekend enjoy a taste of New England and experience a sunset view aboard the M/S Mount Washington. The Lobsterfest Cruise featuring fresh Maine lobsters is on Saturday, August 30 from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The cruise boards at Weirs Beach at 6:15 p.m. and costs $53 per person plus a $2 fuel surcharge.

M/S Mount Washington invites you to continue your relaxing weekend by experiencing the Labor Day Sunset Cruise. On Sunday, August 31 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. the ship will depart from Weirs Beach. Boarding time is 4 p.m. Adults cost $42, children cost $22, or a family pass can be purchased (2 adults plus 2 children) for $104. A $2.00 fuel charge is added to all ticket prices

The family-owned Mount operates May through October, offering daytime scenic, evening dinner & dance, and special themed cruises. With a capacity of 1,250 passengers, the Mount serves as the largest restaurant in the state and a popular gathering point for school proms, college reunions, large corporate celebrations and weddings.

To learn more about Mount Washington Cruises please call toll-free (888) 843-6686 or visit their Website for discounted advance cruise tickets and information at http://www.cruisenh.com.

Family-Friendly Cruising on the M/S Mount Washington

AskLisa — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 16:34:00 GMT

WEIRS BEACH, NH–Looking for some low-cost family-friendly fun in your backyard this summer? The M/S Mount Washington will offer Family Party Nights on Tuesdays beginning July 1st, and Friday's beginning July 4th on the "Mount" are Family Fun Days sponsored by Pepsi.

The Tuesday Family Party Night cruise is a special evening for families to enjoy a summer night on the lake. The cruise includes a child-friendly buffet dinner, live entertainment on two decks, balloon sculptures and face painting. Passengers should bring cameras to capture entertaining photo opportunities with Monty the Mallard, the official cruise mascot.

The Tuesday Family Party Night cruise is 2 hour and 30 minutes departing from Weirs Beach at 6 p.m. Cost: One child under the age of 13 will cruise for free for each adult in the party. That's just $86 for family of four. Additional children and youths 13 to 16 receive $10 discount off adult ticket.

The Friday Family Fun Day cruise also features Monty the Mallard, the official cruise mascot. While mom and dad are enjoying the sites or having lunch, the cruise staff entertains the kids with a variety of games and activities.

The Family Fun Day cruise is 2 hour and 30 minutes departing from Weirs Beach at 10 a.m. and 12:30 a.m. Cost: adult $25, children 4 to 12 $12, and children under 4 cruise free.

Season Passes are now available. For only $79, passengers have unlimited daytime passage on all three of our vessels! Passes must be picked up in person at the Weirs Beach Ticket Office. Certain restrictions may apply. Call a ticket agent for more details 603-366-5531.

Once just a summer attraction, the 230-foot M/S Mount Washington now operates May through October, offering daytime scenic, evening dinner and dance, and special themed cruises. To learn more about Mount Washington Cruises call toll-free (888) 843-6686 or visit http://www.cruisenh.com. For discounted advance cruise tickets and information.

M/S Mount Washington Jazzes up the Waters

AskLisa — Mon, 19 May 2008 16:10:00 GMT

WEIRS BEACH, NH—One of the best brunches in Northern New England is served up with live jazz every Sunday in an unexpected place. The Sunday Jazz Champagne Brunch aboard the M/S Mount Washington is the perfect melody of fine cuisine, cool jazz, champagne and the best views of New Hampshire's Lakes Region.

"There's just nothing like jazz on the water," said Jim Morash, Captain and General Manager. "Great music, great food, and great views make for the perfect Sunday to relax with friends."

The Jazz Champagne Brunch is served onboard the Mount for the 10 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. cruises. The buffet includes a number of breakfast and light luncheon items, complete with a variety of side dishes, desserts, coffee, tea and mimosas.

For just $40 for adults, and $20 for children (ages 4-12; under 4 free), passengers can enjoy the music, cruise, and brunch. The price also includes tax and gratuity. The final cruise will take place on Sunday, October 26.

The M/S Mount Washington's official season began May 17th and runs through October 26th. Season Passes are now available. For only $79, passengers have unlimited daytime passage on all three of our vessels! Passes must be picked up in person at the Weirs Beach Ticket Office. Certain restrictions may apply. Call a ticket agent for more details 603-366-5531.

Once just a summer attraction, the 230-foot M/S Mount Washington now operates May through October, offering daytime scenic, evening dinner and dance, and special themed cruises. To learn more about Mount Washington Cruises please call toll-free (888) 843-6686 or visit their Web site for discounted advance cruise tickets and information at http://www.cruisenh.com.