Exploring the stunning islands and harbor of Portsmouth has never been easier than with the "Explore the Islands & Harbor Guided Bike Tour." This 2-2.5 hour excursion takes visitors on a personalized adventure, cycling along the scenic Piscataqua River and visiting iconic landmarks like Great Island Common and Prescott Park. Led by expert guides, the tour provides valuable insights into the region’s rich maritime and colonial history. With safety gear, high-quality bikes, and optional electric-assist upgrades, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy the beauty and culture of the area. What makes this tour stand out, however, is the intimate group size, ensuring a truly personalized experience.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Portsmouth New Hampshire.
Key Points
- Explore the scenic Piscataqua River, New Castle Island, and other picturesque locations on a 2-2.5 hour guided bike tour in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
- Experience the rich maritime and colonial history of the area, including visits to sites like Fort Stark and Prescott Park.
- Enjoy high-quality 21-speed city bikes or upgrade to electric-assist ebikes, with helmets and safety vests provided for comfort and safety.
- Tour led by expert local guides, offering valuable insights and historical perspectives throughout the journey.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policy, with a maximum group size of 8 participants for a personalized experience.
Tour Overview
The guided bike tour of the Islands & Harbor in Portsmouth, New Hampshire lasts 2-2.5 hours and costs $70.00 or more per person.
Group size is limited to 8 participants, and the tour meets at the John Paul Jones House.
The tour is conducted in English, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Customers can reserve their spot with no upfront payment.
The tour includes a high-end 21-speed city bike, helmet, and safety vest, with the option to upgrade to an electric-assist ebike for an additional $50.00.
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Itinerary Highlights
On this guided bike tour, participants pedal along the Piscataqua River to the charming New Castle Island. Key stops include the scenic Great Island Common, the historic Fort Stark, the peaceful Four Tree Island, and the lively Prescott Park. Riders will explore Portsmouth’s rich maritime and colonial history, visiting preserved architecture and learning about the area’s transformation.
| Highlight | What You’ll See |
|---|---|
| Piscataqua River | Scenic waterfront views |
| New Castle Island | Charming coastal landscapes |
| Fort Stark | Historic military fortifications |
| Prescott Park | Vibrant public gardens |
The tour includes a high-quality 21-speed city bike, helmet, and safety vest, with an option to upgrade to an electric assist ebike for an additional fee.
Tour Experience
Guided by an expert local tour guide, participants embark on a captivating journey through Portsmouth’s charming islands, gardens, and lush parks.
They’ll pedal through the scenic landscape, learning about the area’s rich maritime and colonial history, including the military fortifications.
The tour includes a high-end 21-speed city bike, a helmet, and a safety vest, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.
Participants have the option to upgrade to an electric-assist ebike for an additional $50.00, providing a little extra boost.
Throughout the tour, guests will enjoy photo opportunities at picturesque locations, capturing the beauty of the region.
Preparation and Tips
Participants should arrive 30 minutes early for the bike fitting and safety briefing. This allows time to get acquainted with the high-quality 21-speed city bikes and helmets provided.
During this time, the knowledgeable guide will also cover important safety tips and regulations.
For the tour, it’s recommended to:
- Bring a water bottle or sports drink to stay hydrated
- Prepare for the weather by packing rain gear if showers are forecasted
- Park in the metered street spots or the nearby Mason Lot for convenience
- Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes
- Be ready to pedal through charming islands, gardens, and lush parks while learning about the area’s rich history.
Customer Feedback
The tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 8 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise the excellent local guides, who provide enjoyable and informative routes through the charming islands, gardens, and historic sites. Customers highlight the tour’s ability to bring the area’s maritime and colonial history to life, with many noting the valuable insights shared by the knowledgeable guides.
While some reviewers mentioned needing clearer parking information prior to the tour, the vast majority had an excellent experience and would recommend the tour to others seeking a unique way to explore Portsmouth’s picturesque harbor and islands.
Booking and Cancellation
How can travelers book the Guided Bike Tour of the Islands & Harbor? The tour offers a flexible booking process with the option to reserve now and pay later. Interested visitors can secure their spot with no upfront payment.
Plus, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Travelers can book the tour through the company’s website or by calling the provided phone number.
- Payment is accepted via major credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal.
- Participants have the flexibility to upgrade to an electric-assist ebike for an additional fee.
- The tour is limited to a group size of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Customers can take advantage of the "reserve now, pay later" option, making booking convenient.
Meeting Point and Transportation
The Guided Bike Tour of the Islands & Harbor starts at the John Paul Jones House in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. This historic site serves as the meeting point for the tour, providing a convenient and easily accessible location.
Participants will have the opportunity to meet their knowledgeable local guide and receive a brief safety briefing before setting off on their adventure. The tour includes high-quality 21-speed city bikes, helmets, and safety vests, ensuring a comfortable and secure ride.
Participants have the option to upgrade to an electric-assist ebike for an additional fee, adding an extra boost to their pedal power.
With the meeting point and transportation arrangements taken care of, guests can focus on enjoying the scenic bike ride and seeing the local history and culture.
Pricing and Group Size
The guided bike tour offers pricing options to suit different budgets and group sizes. The tour costs $70.00 per person, with a maximum group size of 8 participants. This small group setting ensures a more personalized and intimate experience.
Some key details about the pricing and group size:
- The tour is priced from $70.00 per person
- The group size is limited to 8 participants
- This small group size allows for a more interactive and engaging experience
- Larger groups can be accommodated with prior notice
- The tour also offers the option to upgrade to an electric assist ebike for an additional $50.00
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be suitable for young children due to the extensive biking along busy roads and routes. However, older children who are confident cyclists may be able to participate with parental supervision.
Can I Bring My Own Bike Instead of Renting One?
Participants can bring their own bikes instead of renting one for the tour. However, the tour company doesn’t provide any bike maintenance or support, so riders are responsible for ensuring their bike is in proper working condition.
How Experienced Do I Need to Be as a Cyclist?
The tour is suitable for cyclists of all experience levels. While it includes some hills and uneven terrain, the pace is leisurely, and the guide provides assistance as needed. No prior experience is required to enjoy the scenic route.
Are There Restroom Facilities During the Tour?
The tour does not include any scheduled restroom breaks. However, participants can use facilities available at the starting point, John Paul Jones House, and potentially at some of the key stops along the way, such as Prescott Park.
Can I Purchase Any Souvenirs or Local Products on the Tour?
This tour does not provide opportunities to purchase souvenirs or local products. The focus is on the guided bike ride experience through the scenic islands and historic areas. Participants should plan any shopping or purchasing for before or after the tour.
Recap
This guided bike tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Portsmouth’s natural beauty and rich history. With an expert guide, visitors can explore the scenic Piscataqua River, visit iconic landmarks, and learn about the region’s maritime and colonial past. The tour’s personalized experience, safety gear, and electric-assist bike option make it an appealing choice for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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