Private Charters

Booking Now Available Through Labor Day

PRIVATE CHARTERS

Advanced booking for the oyster dredge IDA MAY is now open! Sails begin May 12th, so don’t miss your chance to experience history and create unforgettable memories on the water.

IDA MAY

Reserve the IDA MAY, for a unique and private cruise among friends and family. Transform your bachelor/bachelorette party, birthday, anniversary, business function, or any other special occasion into a truly unique and memorable experience.

Built-in 1925, the original IDA MAY was the first oyster dredge powered by an engine instead of a sail, revolutionizing the oyster industry in Oyster Bay, where she worked for 75 years. Today, her faithfully crafted replica follows the original design as closely as possible while meeting modern U.S. Coast Guard requirements, allowing her to carry passengers safely.

The new IDA MAY is 50 feet long and 17 feet wide, built to accommodate up to 40 passengers for educational programs, public cruises, and private charters. With a wide, open deck, she serves as a floating classroom, providing hands-on experiences in maritime history, aquaculture, and marine conservation.

IDA MAY honors Oyster Bay’s rich maritime heritage while highlighting modern oyster farmers' dedication and aquaculture's sustainability in our harbors. Her construction is a tribute to the craftsmanship of traditional wooden boat building and the teamwork of volunteers, shipwrights, and community supporters who brought her to life.

Max group size 40 (at least one adult on the water).

Learn more about her story at sailidamay.org/history.

Price: $1900 (2.5 Hours), and each additional hour is $400. Additional service fees may apply.

*No children under 3 years old; all children must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18. No animals are allowed aboard.

For a full list of our recent policy changes, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions Page

If you have any questions please contact booking@thewaterfrontcenter.org or call (516) 922-SAIL [7245]

Request a Private Charter

Interested in a Private Event? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly! We can't wait to hear from you!