Merrohawke sometimes utilizes several different passenger vessels in Newburyport, depending on the needs of a particular class or program. These include the F/V Erica Lee, Captain's Lady boats, and the Yankee Clipper. All are inspected annually by the U.S. Coast Guard. All licensed captains and crew share our insistence that the safety and happiness of children is the top priority.
As these vessels are licensed for carrying passengers and built specifically to do so with high railings and other safety design measures, children are not required to wear lifejackets while on board, just as when traveling onboard ferries and whale watching boats. Each vessel carries numerous life jackets and other required safety gear in case of an emergency. We are happy to accommodate the wishes of parents who would like their child to wear a life jacket during program hours. When transporting older youth ashore to islands and beaches in smaller boats, children do wear lifejackets that we provide.
The F/V Erica Lee is the flagship of Merrohawke Nature School and BOAT CAMP originated aboard her. Built in 1980 by Capt. Bob Yeomans, Capt. Rob’s father, for use as a commercial fishing vessel, she later evolved into primary use as a passenger vessel for deep sea fishing and children’s programs. She is a 42-foot Bruno-Stillman design and U.S. Coast Guard certified to carry 28 passengers and 2 crew. She is privately owned by Captains Rob and Kate Yeomans and leased exclusively for the season by Merrohawke.
In 2020 she celebrated her 40th birthday. Below are photos of our crew family over so many years. You may also view the slide show here.