mail boat cruises

• Scenic & Mail Boat Cruises
• Mail Boat Cruise
• 1:30pm The Mail Boat Cruise

The Mail Boat Cruise

• Description

Summer schedule departures - 1st Oct - 30th April Monday through to Saturday.

The Mail has been delivered by boat for over 150 years in the Queen Charlotte Sounds and we are proud to uphold that service! We are the  only official licensed New Zealand Post Rural Delivery Service by water in the Queen Charlotte Sound / Tōtaranui making this a truly unique and interesting tour!

Designed to take you off the beaten tourist path so you can experience the real Queen Charlotte Sounds / Tōtaranui.

Come along with us on the Mail Boat Cruise and share the excitement of Mail Day as the skipper delivers the New Zealand Rural post bags, groceries and freight to the residents that call the Queen Charlotte Sound waterways home.

Operating from Monday to Saturday, no one day is the same as the route changes daily covering a different area delivering the Mail. People often ask what the best day to go is, or what route we like the best, but each mail route has its own highlights.

Sit back and relax, take in our skippers amazing wealth of knowledge as they provide an interesting and informative commentary. The Mail Boat vessel Matua presents excellent viewing areas and is the most comfortable way of cruising and taking in the vista of the waterways of the Queen Charlotte Sounds. Keep your camera handy for any wildlife encounters!

• If time allows the Mail Boat Cruise will take a short stop at one of the brilliant locations within the Queen Charlotte waterways, you route will shown upon check in.

Beachcomber Cruises are proud to say we no longer use single use cups, we sell our own keep cups so you can enjoy tea and coffee on board selected vessels. 

* Please advise us prior to booking if you have an evening travel connection *

Winter schedule departures - 1st May until 30th Sept 1.30pm Monday / Wednesday / Friday only 

Summer departures  1st Oct 1:30pm  Monday through to Saturday departures 

Winter departures 1st May until 30th Sept 1.30pm Monday / Wednesday / Friday only

The arrival time back into Picton is an estimate only which varies each day and is dependent upon a number of factors including the route, how much mail there is to deliver and how many pick ups/drop offs we have along the way. During the warmer months we generally arrive back at the later estimated time, in winter it tends to be earlier. If time is limited please let us know at the time of booking so we can discuss the best option for you.

Tour Best Bits

• Delivering mail to the local residents; say hi to the kids waiting for their school work
• View the resident wildlife and marine mammals such as New Zealand Fur Seals and visiting dolphins
• Learn the history of the Queen Charlotte Sound and its residents from your friendly skipper

Cruise Route Map

• Monday and Thursday: Inner Sounds
• Tuesday and Friday: Tory Channel
• Wednesday: East Bay and Endeavour Inlet
• Saturday: Endeavour Inlet
• Sunday: Sunday Afternoon Cruise

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Mail Boat Cruises in Norway

See Norway’s spectacular fjords on a Hurtigruten mail boat cruise arranged by Norwegian travel experts. Tour packages include cruise reservations, accommodation and land travel.

See the Fjords on a Norwegian Mail Boat Cruise

The dramatic 2,000-kilometre Norwegian coastline is one of Europe’s great attractions, and for more than 100 years the popular Hurtigruten mail boat cruise in  Norway  has been offering incredible fjord scenery to locals and travellers alike. In fact, Lonely Planet called the Hurtigruten cruise along the Norwegian coast "The World's Most Beautiful Voyage". So it’s no surprise that Hurtigruten mail boat cruises in Norway are among the most popular tours offered by Nordic Visitor.

Nordic Visitor specialises in tailor-made fjord tours in Norway that include overnights on the Hurtigruten cruise line. Our Norway tour packages are nearly all-inclusive , meaning that we handle all of your cruise reservations, accommodations both at sea and on land as well as as any travel via train or rental car.

Ready to take that dream cruise in Norway? Keep browsing below for our suggestions of tour packages that include Hurtigruten mail boat cruises and Havila voyages in Norway.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options
• Value for your money
• Professional service from local experts

Sail along Norway's scenic coast

Hop on a mail boat cruise between Bergen and Kirkenes for incredible fjord scenery and exciting shore excursions. We handle all your voyage details, accommodations and land travel.

Best of Northern Norway Classic - 71° North Cape

Northern lights & cruise, northern lights by train and cruise, tromsø, flåm & the fjords, norway in a nutshell® express - winter, express norway - winter, coastal cruise & flåm railway, visit more of scandinavia by sea.

Check out our popular multi-country tour packages for a trip that connects the cities of Oslo, Copenhagen, Stockholm and Helsinki with travel by train and ferry.

Capitals of Scandinavia in Winter

Best of scandinavia classic - winter, train & cruise.

Countries Visited Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark

Best of Scandinavia & Finland Cruise

Capitals of scandinavia & norwegian fjords, highlights of a hurtigruten mail boat cruise in norway.

Classic Hurtigruten cruises run south to north (and vice versa) between the charming city of Bergen  and the town of Kirkenes  in northern Norway, sailing alongside the beautiful Norwegian fjords. It runs year-round and crosses the Arctic Circle, making this voyage ideal for experiencing the midnight sun in summer or for enjoying a  Hurtigruten northern lights winter cruise .

A one-way Hurtigruten post boat cruise covering the full route takes around 6 or 7 days and the voyage stops at 34 ports of call.

• Need some tips for your first Hurtigruten cruise?  Get our travel expert's advice
• Discover the  top cruise journeys in Norway  to inspire you

Here are just a few of the things you can experience on coastal Hurtigruten cruises in Norway:

• Walk around the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund and admire its beautiful architecture.
• Sail up the Geirangerfjord , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, past tumbling waterfalls.
• Stroll past the colourful wharf houses in Trondheim , the ancient former capital of Norway.
• See the beautiful Lofoten Islands , famous for its jagged peaks and quaint fishing villages.
• Visit lively Tromsø , "The Paris of the North”, and visit its uniquely-shaped Arctic Cathedral.
• Enjoy amazing views from the cliffs at North Cape , mainland Europe's northernmost point.

What’s more, Hurtigruten ships -- such as the MS Trollfjord, for example -- are equipped with many of the amenities of large cruise liners, such as outdoor hot tubs, a fitness room, different dining rooms and outdoor panorama lounges for viewing sea eagles. You also have your choice of different cabin options and exciting guided shore excursions when booking a Nordic Visitor Hurtigruten tour.

Customisations for a Hurtigruten post boat voyage

The best thing about Hurtigruten postal ferry cruises in Norway is the hop-on, hop-off style of travel. You can opt to embark and disembark at ports other than Bergen or Kirkenes, so you can enjoy a shorter cruise in addition to travel by car or train.

A most popular addition to Hurtigruten cruises in Norway is the Norway in a Nutshell® train journey , which connects Oslo to Bergen via the Flåm Railway. Give yourself at least 8 days in Norway if you wish to enjoy a train-cruise combo trip. We can also customise any itinerary to include trips to neighbouring Scandinavian countries.

Hurtigruten is much-loved for its heritage, but it’s also possible to travel the same route on a modern Havila ship. Ask your travel consultant about exploring Norway on a Havila voyage .

— COASTAL VOYAGES

Quick facts about hurtigruten.

• Hurtigruten was founded in 1893 to transport cargo, mail and passengers between coastal towns
• In the old days, Norway’s fjords made road travel difficult and sometimes dangerous
• Hurtigruten means “fast route” in Norwegian
• Today the cruise line is considered a leader in the “slow travel” movement

Norway Cruise Travel Experts

As a trusted travel agency with experienced staff throughout the Nordic region, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Norway. What's more, we're certified Havila and Hurtigruten agents. This means we have the most up-to-date information regarding availability of cruises and cabin types.

Nordic Visitor works only with licensed, reputable travel partners that meet our high standards. Plus, Havila and Hurtigruten have the same strict expectations for their certified agents. To ensure the highest quality for our guests, we maintain close connections with them and try their cruise services ourselves.

We go beyond booking cruise services in Norway – we also make all your travel arrangements on land, including accommodation and travel by train and rental car. Our nearly all-inclusive itineraries – that can be customised to your needs – include Norway's must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights that are hand-picked by our own staff.

Different ways you can experience Norway

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Norway below.

Fjord Cruise & Train

Self-drive tours, guided small group, northern lights, lofoten islands, hurtigruten cruises, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Well planned tour

The tour was well planned. Travel was easy. Hotels in perfect locations. Even when there was a problem, the emergency number led to an easy resolution. 5/5 trip. Exceeded my expectations!

Enjoyed the experience

The Northern lights adventure was successful. Our guide made every effort to help us se them. Our guides on the snowmobile tour were helpful and fun. Food was great. My grandson misplaced his cell phone and everyone helped look for it. We enjoyed the whole experience.

The tour was EXCELLENT! The sign up was EASY! When a train derailment changed our travel plans over the Easter holiday weekend someone at the office answered the phone and helped us. This was THE BEST tour we have ever taken and highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.

Amazing experience

We really didn't know what to expect, only booking a trip to Norway because of a wedding in Denmark the following week. It was an amazing experience. Everything worked well. Accomodations were clean, comfortable and cultural at the same time. When we hit a snag along the way, our consultant was available by phone. We'd recommend this trip, and Nordic Visitor, to others.

An amazing trip!

Ellen, our travel consultant, helped me plan the perfect trip to Norway! The hotel was nice and had free breakfast that was delicious! Camp Tamok was awesome and the dog sledding and snowmobiling was so much fun. There was a little hiccup when the catamaran tour changed to another boat and we didn't know, but I called the emergency line and was helped right away. The northern lights chase was awesome and we finally got to see the lights on the last night. It was an amazing trip!

What an experience!

WOW, WOW, WOW!! What a trip, what an experience. Everything was perfect and so accurate! From planing to the end of the trip everything was on time, and we really enjoy everything. The hotels, trains, buses, boat! Visiting Norway is a dream! The cities, people, everything!

Highly recommend

Ellen was amazing throughout the booking process and answering all my questions. The trip was incredible. I could do more than what I wanted and I could taylor it to meet my needs. I will highly recommend you see Norway with Nordic Visitor's help.

Super well planned

Recently took one of the tours including Norway in a Nutshell that included an ambitious amount of travel - on trains, boats, buses, airplanes - 6 different cities/hotels (including on the Hurtigruten Coastal Express) - and everywhere we went we were expected and welcomed. The materials Ellen sent ahead of time helped us be prepared and make the most of our trip. Super well planned - wouldn't hesitate to use Nordic Visitor services for another trip.

Exactly what we wanted

Easy instructions. It was exactly what we wanted. Very easy to navigate. Our travel consultant was responsive and helpful. We had one complication which was solved right away. I would recommend highly.

Everything was seamless

I travel quite often but this was my first time using a travel consultant. Annie responded quickly to all my questions and worked with me to make several changes to the suggested itinerary. Everything was seamless and there were no issues in the planning or while on the trip. There was an unforeseen delay on a train and the agency called us to let us know the updated timetables and advice on how to proceed since we would be missing our original connection. My mom and I had a wonderful time on the trip. I would highly recommend Nordic Visitor, it is definitely worth your while.

Memorable trip

Our travel consultant, Juliana was great and ensured we were able to do the activities we had selected and also answered all our questions, helped with reservations etc. our biggest concern was managing the logistics and making every train, bus, cruise, flight etc but although tiring it all worked out really well. we chose the luxury accomodation and were not disappointed, even the glamping tent was great. What made the trip memorable was the activities, and all were high quality, well run and very professional.

Norway is beautiful

It's a great experience to use the consultant, hassle free. My travel consultant, Elini has been very helpful and responsive. The hotel we stayed are all very near to the train station. Norway is beautiful with the great nature.

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Norway adventure.

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Our Services

Whether you travel by train, cruise ship or car in your Nordic Visitor package, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents, and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognized for consistent, quality service.

Book With Confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• We work closely with trusted, high-quality suppliers.
• Enjoy personal service from Norway travel experts.
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Do you have a question about our Norway tours? Or maybe you want to customise a travel package. Whatever you need, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog posts you might like

7 best cruise journeys in norway, why bergen is called the “gateway to norway’s fjords”, best time & place to see northern lights in norway, first hurtigruten cruise tips for your maiden voyage.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

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Resolution Bay - Beachcomber Cruises Picton Mail Boat

Beachcomber Cruises Picton Mail Boat

Beachcomber Cruises Picton Mail Boat - with Dolphins

Good Morning World | Trade | Beachcomber Cruises

Beachcomber Cruises Picton Mail Boat Cruise

1 London Quay, The Waterfront Picton , Picton , New Zealand .

The Mail has been delivered by boat for over 150 years in the Queen Charlotte Sounds and we are proud to uphold that service! We are the only official licensed New Zealand Post Rural Delivery Service by water in the Queen Charlotte Sound / Tōtaranui.

Pricing and Conditions

1:30pm Monday through to Saturday. No Mail delivery on Sunday we do the Sunday afternoon cruise.

Up to 48 hrs before departure time: re-booking at no cost or refund less 10%. Within 48 hrs of departure: re booking at no cost or no refund. After departure time: no refund. While you are ashore you are responsible for your own health and safety. Beachcomber Cruises reserve the right to amend timetables, cancel departures, substitute plant and equipment and alter ticket prices at any time without prior notification due to unforeseen circumstance.

Designed to take you off the beaten tourist path so you can experience the real Queen Charlotte Sounds / Tōtaranui. Come along with us on the Mail Boat Cruise and share the excitement of Mail Day as the skipper delivers the New Zealand Rural post bags, groceries and freight to the residents that call the Queen Charlotte Sound waterways home. Operating from Monday to Saturday, no one day is the same as the route changes daily covering a different area delivering the Mail. People often ask what the best day to go is, or what route we like the best, but each mail route has its own highlights. Sit back and relax, take in our skippers amazing wealth of knowledge as they provide an interesting and informative commentary.

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Atlas Obsession

Mail Boat Tour in Portland, Maine – Everything You Need to Know

Portland, Maine is a coastal city of about 66,000 people that sits right on the Atlantic Ocean, making it a popular stop on any New England itinerary . One of the best things you can do here is to get out on the water and explore the bay. While you could charter your own boat and cruise around the bay, an easier option exists. One of the most popular and convenient ways to see this gorgeous landscape is to take the Mail Boat Tour in Portland, Maine.

Table of Contents

What Is the Portland Mail Boat Tour?

The Portland Mail Boat Tour is convenient for tourists, but that’s not the reason why this particular route is run. The main purpose of this service is to deliver mail, supplies, and other passengers to the various islands of Casco Bay. Three times per day, the ship departs from Portland, making its rounds and stopping at several of the islands.

Basically, the company figured out that they could make easy money by letting tourists ride along while it does its actual job. And for tourists, it’s a easy, affordable, and convenient. So, when you visit, you should definitely consider taking the Mail Boat Tour in Portland, Maine.

Getting to the Mail Boat Tour

The terminal is located in the harbor of Portland. When you put in directions on your map, search for Casco Bay Lines .

The only tricky thing is deciding where you are going to park. There are several options, from garages to lots to street parking. When I visited Portland and did the cruise, I parked at the Thames Street lot. It’s not as centrally located as some of the other lots in the city, but I was able to park there for 24 hours for $10 (in 2021), which was some of the cheapest parking I was able to find in the whole city. Since I planned to explore the Old Port and get some lunch after the cruise, this was a great option. This parking lot is a ten minute walk to the terminal.

Buying a Ticket

You can buy a ticket for the Portland Mail Boat Tour online, but there’s really no need. Tickets do not have a set day or time, so it’s easiest to just buy it at the terminal before your journey. Each cruise can hold nearly 300 people so it’s rare for the cruises to completely fill up.

However, during summer high season, it is recommended to get there early to make sure you get a spot. I was here during the last weekend of October, well outside of peak season, and had no issues. At maximum, there may have only been 30 people on the ship at any given time on the day I cruised.

In 2024, tickets cost $21 for adults and $12 for children. There’s discounts for seniors as well.

Keep in mind that schedules change with the season. Visit the Casco Bay Lines website for up to date schedules and information.

Your ticket will not indicate what gate your boat departs from, so you may need to ask. The terminal was not very big, only five gates, and only one of the boats was being loaded. I was pretty positive this was my boat, but it doesn’t hurt to ask if you are unsure.

When it’s time to board, you will walk up present your ticket, and it will be collected. Find a seat on the ship and relax.

There are several seating options on board, both indoor and outdoor. On a warm, sunny, summer day, outside seating can be wonderful. If you’re not here with perfect weather (like me!), don’t worry. You can be outdoors for photos and take cover inside when it starts to rain or you get too cold.

The entire Mail Boat Tour lasts anywhere from two and a half to three and a half hours. The variation comes from how long it takes to load and unload at each stop. During my trip, there were few people traveling, so it took us about two and a half hours to complete the whole Mail Boat Tour and return to Portland, Maine.

You may be tempted to get off at one of some of the islands since the boat makes numerous stops, but if this is your plan, you must buy a ticket directly for the island that you are visiting. Not only is this cheaper, but your ticket is collected once you get on the boat. Without a new ticket, you won’t be able to get back on.

On my cruise, we made seven stops at various islands. The crew is efficient so our time in the ports were very quick. This is great because the less time spent in port, means more time cruising.

On board, the only food comes from vending machines, so make sure to bring your own snacks. I’ve read several articles by people who brought a whole picnic lunch to enjoy on the boat. This sounds like a great idea on a nice day.

When to Do the Portland Mail Boat Tour

I would recommend doing this on a nice summer day, when there’s clear skies and warm weather. This will give you the best views while also being the most comfortable. I can’t think of a more enjoyable way to see this area than with a picnic lunch on the ship for the Mail Boat Tour in Portland, Maine. That’s not to say you couldn’t do it in winter, but it’s unlikely you’ll be sitting outside to enjoy a picnic then.

It is possible to do this cruise all year round. Remember, it’s not just for tourists. It’s also the way mail, supplies, and people move around the islands. Just be prepared for to spend most of your time indoors, watching through the windows.

What If There Is Bad Weather?

I did my trip on October 30th. It was a cool, cloudy day and it eventually started raining. I had tried to find information online about other people who had done this trip in not-so-ideal conditions, but didn’t find much. I think there’s a pretty good reason for it and it’s because tourists don’t typically do this in bad weather.

When I did my trip, I was the only tourist who braved the conditions. I would have loved to have a better day, but it was the only day I was able to do it. To my dismay, the next day had perfect weather for October with completely clear skies and a comfortable temperature. This weather was ideal for exploring nearby Cape Elizabeth .

If you can, try to build in some extra time in your itinerary so you have multiple chances to do the Mail Boat Tour in Portland, Maine if the weather doesn’t cooperate the first day.

During my tour, was cloudy all morning, but the rain didn’t start until an hour in. Even once it started, the rain was more of a mist. The real rain and fog didn’t pick up until the last 45 minutes. Once it started raining, I moved inside to warmer and drier conditions. Even inside, you can get a seat that still allows you to see the views outside.

So Is It Worth It?

If you have a warm, sunny day, you should absolutely take the Mail Boat Tour in Portland, Maine. Even though, I’ve already done the tour, I would absolutely do it again just to have some better weather.

That said, I didn’t have good weather, but I’m still happy I went. I think as long as you can have good visibility for at least half of the journey, it’s worth it. Had the morning started out super foggy (like how it was when we ended), I would have skipped it. The highlight is the scenery, so if you can’t see the scenery, what’s the point?

What to Bring on Your Mail Boat Tour

Snacks – The only food sold on board comes from vending machines, so bring your own snacks to eat. A picnic lunch in summer sounds wonderful, but even just a few smaller snacks are a good idea.

Warm clothes – You’ll be out on the bay, so even if it’s warm in Portland, it’ll be cooler once you’re out on the water. I wore a light sweatshirt, my fall jacket, long pants, and had a hat. After an hour outside, I was freezing and had to move inside just to warm up.

Camera – You’ll want to take photos of the views as you cruise.

Final Thoughts

The Mail Boat Tour in Portland, Maine is a great way to get on the water, and while it is doable in not so perfect weather, do your best to take this cruise in the best possible weather.

Continue Your Adventure

Maine : If you’re visiting Portland, consider a visit to nearby Cape Elizabeth for a picturesque coastline and the country’s most photographed lighthouse.

Itineraries : For the perfect road trip through New England, check out this 10 day itinerary .

More in New England : Maine is just the beginning of adventures in New England. In Rhode Island, tour the over the top mansions in Newport . In Connecticut, visit the historic fishing village of Mystic or one of its many state parks . Take a quick detour through New York to visit Albany . And don’t miss out on Stowe, Vermont – it’s a favorite among many travelers.

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• Cruising and Delivering Mail on our Mail Run Cruises

Exploring the Marlborough Sounds by mail boat is a truly unique experience. Our full-day cruises are a chance to see an authentic, fascinating slice of daily life in our remote part of the world.

The Pelorus Mail Boat has been delivering mail, groceries and goods to residents in remote locations in the scenic Marlborough Sounds for more than a century.

All our Mail Boat day cruises include stunning scenery, spectacular wildlife, and an adventure you will never forget.

In this section

The Mail Run Cruise

The Saturday Mail Run

Postie's Day Off - Sunday Cruise

Which route/cruise is best.

All our routes guarantee stunning scenery, the chance to spot amazing wildlife and fun, entertaining commentary from our onboard crew.

How is the Sunday Cruise different to the Mail Boat run?

The only difference is that we don’t deliver mail or supplies on Sundays. Instead, we focus solely on showing you some of the best scenery of the Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere.

Does the mail boat operate in bad weather?

The Marlborough Sounds is a very sheltered area so it is rare for the Pelorus Mail Boat not to operate.

You are welcome to phone us for a skipper’s weather report, which is the most accurate local weather information you will get for our trip.

If the weather is not to your liking, you're welcome to change your booking to another date up to 24 hours prior to your sailing departure time.

On the very rare occasion that we cancel a sailing due to bad weather, you will be offered the option of an alternate date or full refund.

What’s it like to do a cruise in winter?

Autumn and winter weather in the Marlborough Sounds can be some of the best of the year, with glassy calm water conditions and more marine life including dolphins. Just bring an extra layer or two and a woolly hat, and you’ll enjoy some spectacular light and colours.

Do you actually deliver mail?

Yes. We are a genuine Royal Mail delivery service to the Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere community. We also deliver freight, groceries and transfer residents and holiday makers to and from their properties.

What wildlife are we likely to see?

We see all sorts of wildlife and every day is different. The weather, tide, time of year and luck all play a part in what we see.

We regularly come across little blue penguins, white-fronted terns, fluttering shearwaters, rare king shags, spotted shags and pied shags. We may also see New Zealand fur seals, stingrays and dusky dolphins, common dolphins and bottle nose dolphins, along with very occasional sightings of orca.

An eclectic range of residents' pets also come out to meet us at the jetties – from dogs to chickens, kunekune pigs, ostriches, goats and even llamas.

Can we pay by credit card?

Yes - Visa, Mastercard are welcomed, and we also accept debit card transactions.

What are our lunch options?

Bring your own lunch. Havelock has a number of great cafes, a bakery and a small supermarket where you can stock up before you board our cruise.

We provide complimentary tea, coffee and water onboard.

What do we need to bring?

• Sunhat (we also sell sunhats onboard)
• Camera, memory card and battery
• Layers of warm clothing – the weather can change quickly

Are there toilets on board?

Yes - there are two toilets onboard.

Do you have wheelchair access?

We do have partial wheelchair access. Some mobility is required and we appreciate prior notice. We can take a maximum of two wheelchairs per cruise. 

Where can I park my car before the cruise?

Havelock Marina, where we are based, has a pay and display parking area. We suggest leaving plenty of time for car parking during busy summer months before your check-in time.

Why do return times vary?

Our return time varies quite a bit depending on the number of deliveries on the day, what the tide is doing and also what we see on the day. We run a relaxed schedule to ensure our passengers enjoy what we see on the day, so this can vary our return time.

Do you allow kayaks, bikes and dogs on board?

Yes, we can carry kayaks, bikes and dogs. However, we do have limited space at certain times of year so please contact us with your specific requirements. Dogs are not permitted on the mailrun, only on transfers.

Can you take me to the Nydia Track?

Yes – check our Transfers page and map for more information. 

Do you sell vouchers?

Yes we do - you can purchase a voucher here .

Will I get seasick?

The inner Marlborough Sounds is very sheltered and does not experience the large rolling sea swells seen in Cook Strait and the open sea. While the Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere is often calm, the sea can become choppy, particularly in the afternoon. Normally these conditions last only a short time as we move between sheltered bays and inlets.

I have rented a boat-access only holiday home but I’m not sure exactly where it is. Can you help?

Talk to us and we’ll help you find it. The maze of  bays and inlets that makes up the Marlborough Sounds can be a confusing place for first-time visitors. Our local staff have many years of in-depth local knowledge to help pinpoint your holiday home location before you go – please ask us when you book.

Are your cruises suitable for families?

Definitely. Our cruises are safe and fun for all ages, and children aged 4 and under travel free. Passengers are advised to always follow the instructions of the skipper and crew.

Can I bring more than one bag onboard?

All passengers can take one bag (20kg maximum) for free but there is a charge for additional bags.

A charge may also be applied for extra freight other than general luggage and groceries, e.g. lawnmowers, boat motors etc. These are loaded at the discretion of the skipper and due to loadings on the boat on the day.

We strongly recommend that all luggage should have a waterproof liner and contents in plastic bags, so your belongings are protected in case of a heavy rainfall when bags are being transferred from our boat to jetties.

Do you accept walk-in passengers without prior bookings?

Yes we do, when space is available. 
We advise passengers to book earlier than their day of travel to avoid disappointment. 

I’m organising a group tour in the Pelorus Sound and need water transport. Can you help?

Yes we can. Our 15-metre catamaran can accommodate up to 99 passengers. Please see our Charters page for more information, or contact us directly .

When do I need to check in?

All passengers need to check in at 9.30am for our 10am departure time. This is to allow enough time for boarding and for the day's mail deliveries to get away on time.

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Picton’s Mail Boat Delivery Run – Marlborough Sounds

Marlborough sounds mail boat cruise beachcomber cruises.

Join Beachcomber Cruises on The Magic Mail Run, the only official licensed New Zealand Post Rural delivery service by water in the Queen Charlotte Sound. This is our most popular trip and a great way to explore the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. Share the excitement of mail day as we cruise the Queen Charlotte Sounds and deliver mail and groceries to the families that live in these beautiful, remote places. 

Magic Mail Boat Run – Marlborough Sounds most popular cruise

Picton’s mail boat delivery cruise – queen charlotte sounds.

Join us at Beachcomber Cruises for this unique cruise, sit back and relax with a complimentary tea or coffee and if the sea air makes you hungry feel free to bring your own food and beverages on-board. There is nothing quite like sea air, sunshine and good company to increase your appetite! Return to Picton at approximately 5.30pm.

Grab your camera and book online with us today

Booking for Picton’s Mail Boat Delivery Run – Marlborough Sounds

• Mailboat Run

Hop on the Mailboat Run! The locals’ favorite way to experience Casco Bay – this true working boat carries passengers, mail and freight to Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Long, Cliff and Chebeague Islands. Year-round availability. Check out our blog for more information!

Narration provided with 10 or more cruise passengers.

Duration : 2.5-3.5 hrs. (times vary based upon route and cargo volume)            Runs : Daily

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TOUR-SPECIFIC FAQS

Why is the mailboat tour so popular.

The Mailboat is our most popular tour because of the unique nature of mail delivery that we provide to lakeshore residents. The 75-foot Walworth with a load of 150 passengers, delivers mail and newspapers by moving between the docks and getting close enough to the pier for the Mailperson to jump off the moving boat, deposit the mail in the mailbox, grab outgoing mail, and jump back onto the boat – all while the boat keeps moving. Every delivery is different and challenging both for the Captain and the Mailperson! Sometimes the delivery ends with a splash in the lake!

Is this a good tour for kids?

The Full Lake Cruise is two hours in length which can be long for young kids. As with all of our tours, there is a live narration so passengers are still asked to be respectful of others who are there to enjoy the narration. We recommend the Best of the Lake Cruise or the Ice Cream Social Cruise for children because of the shorter length of the tour.

Are there any discounts on this tour?

We offer AAA, Preferred Guest with local hotels, and military discounts. (One discount per transaction.) We also offer an additional discount for senior guests on Tuesdays. View our specials and promos here.

Can we bring snacks on board the boat?

We offer a full snack bar and cash bar with items such as chips, candy and soft drinks. We also offer a full cash bar. If you bring a small snack to hold you over during the tour that is fine, but we do not allow full meals and we do not allow coolers. No alcohol is permitted to be brought on board because we have liquor licenses on all of our boats.

Can I bring a stroller?

In most cases we can accommodate a stroller, however on very busy days our crew may ask you to fold it up and/or store it on the dock due to limited space. The boat crew makes that decision based on the number of tickets sold.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

The Walworth, the boat we use for the Full Lake Cruise, can accommodate a wheelchair. There is a gangplank that goes across from the pier to the boat and one step down onto the main deck that our crew can help you navigate. Please let us know ahead of time if you need extra assistance.

What does the Mailboat deliver on Sundays?

The Mailboat could also be called the “newspaper boat” because we deliver newspapers along with the mail. On Sundays we deliver the large Sunday newspapers, so our service runs seven days per week.

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U.S. Mailboat Cruises

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Adults $ 46 • Children $ 36

Launched on Lake Winnipesaukee in 1945, the M/V Sophie C continues a long tradition of delivering postal mail to the lake's summer island residents. On each two hour cruise, she'll visit a number of different islands, while her Skipper points out areas of interest along the way.

On some islands Sophie's visit is the social event of the day, and island residents often come to the dock to say hello, and purchase an ice cream treat, snack or souvenir.

Don't forget to send a postcard home! Passengers are invited to fill out and mail postcards right on board, complete Sophie's own unique, collectible cancellation stamp!

All cruises depart from Weirs Beach. *Please note that mail stops may vary based on whether there is mail to deliver, or residents on the island.

Tickets & Seating

Please note that only a limited number of seats are available for advance purchase at cruisenh.com. Additional seats may be available for purchase in person on the day of a cruise. Unfortunately we are unable to hold or reserve any tickets in advance of arrival.

All passengers 5 years or age or older are required to have a ticket. Passengers under the age of 5 do not require a ticket, however they do require a seat. We strongly recommend that parties with young children arrive early to be certain you have seats for every member of the party.

The M/V Sophie C offers both indoor and outdoor seats, and all seats are positioned in rows.

Please note that the M/V Sophie C. is not wheelchair accessible. For passengers with mobility concerns, the M/S Mount Washington is able to accommodate a wheelchair.

The Sophie C offers a variety of chips, snacks, and soft drinks, including a wide selection of ice cream novelty treats.

Remember your visit to Winnipesaukee with a memento of your trip. The Sophie C has a small gift shop including t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other souvenirs.

Postal Services

The Sophie C is a floating post office, offering many of the same services as the one in your local city or town.

In fact, we encourage you to send mail – Sophie offers postcards that can be purchased and mailed right from the boat, with a collectible cancellation stamp all of her own.

Are dogs permitted on the boat? Only specially-trained service dogs are permitted. Service animals must be trained to perform a specific task for an individual with a disability. Emotional support animals are not permitted nor protected under ADA.

Can I bring lunch on board? Yes, with limitations. Please bear in mind that there are no tables nor storage on board. Alcohol, glass, and coolers are prohibited. Crew reserves the right to inspect all bags to ensure that prohibited items are not brought on board.

Can I bring a stroller on board? Because there is limited storage on board, strollers are not permitted. However, we are able to store strollers on shore until you return from your cruise.

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The Best Way to See Maine's Casco Bay Islands Is By Mail Boat

Icy wind rips across the bow of the Maquoit II . The boat is entering Casco Bay from the coast of Portland, Maine and the city is in a freeze after a late-season snowstorm. But there’s work to be done, and residents of the small island communities throughout the bay rely on the Maquoit II —one of three mail boats operated by Casco Bay Lines —to deliver everything from luggage and letters to tractor tires and clapboard. Not only is the mail boat run open to the public, it’s actually the best way to see Maine’s islands, combining views of the state’s natural beauty with the timeless tradition of the mail boat, while offering glimpses of Maine’s island life.

Setting off from the Maine State Pier at a steady ten knots, two Detroit Diesel Series 60 engines purring underfoot, you quickly get a sense of the breadth of the bay’s 26-mile-wide opening. Skiffs, dwarfed by the Maquoit ’s 98-foot length, head in the opposite direction, steered by solo skippers on their way into the wharfs. The islands loom in the distance.

The twice-daily mailboat run goes to five of the bay’s islands: Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Long Island, Great Chebeague, and Cliff Island. Legend has it there’s an island for each day of the year, which is why they're sometimes referred to as the Calendar Islands. But one rider, a gentleman on his way to Little Diamond, the first stop, and a small island with a year-round population that can be counted on two hands, tells me there are actually 222. He’s on his way to check on his summer home after the storm.

Smaller freight is transported in wheeled carts that are tied off between stops and narrow enough to pass easily over the gangplank from boat to dock.

“Casco Bay Lines are responsible for sustaining the island communities,” Larry Legere, captain of the Masquoit II 's three-man crew, tells me. The ferry system, he says, carries everything to the islands you can imagine—except gasoline. (The Coast Guard prohibits carrying gasoline on passenger vessels—a separate barge is in charge of bringing fuel to islanders.)

Legere grew up south of Portland in Cape Elizabeth. He’s been with Casco Bay Lines for 44 years and tells me boats are part of his family history. Each of his uncles worked at Casco Bay Lines—so too have a number of his cousins, his sister, and each of his three daughters. His dad worked on steamboats during WWII and would moonlight as a charter boat captain in the '60s, “for golfing money,” he says. He used to ride along with his dad on those moonlit treks. Today, Legere is known around the docks as the unofficial historian of Casco Bay Lines.

“We’re the oldest continually operating ferry system in the country,” Legere says. Its history starts in the 1870s, and while the boats are now powered by diesel engines, until the '50s, Casco Bay Lines employed coal-fired steamboats. The mail run, as it exists today, has been around since the '60s and the company was privately owned for most of its history until 1981. “State legislature voted to allow the islanders to purchase the boats and the name, and it became a quasi-municipal transit company,” Legere informs me, drawing a comparison to a city’s public bus company.

Passengers riding in the Maquoit II 's interior cabin.

Today, Casco Bay Lines operates seven scenic cruises that are open to the public. "Sunrise on the Bay," the earliest, leaves the Maine State Pier at 5:05 a.m.—sometimes carrying freight and mail but mostly kids heading to school and early birds with a reverence for dawn. The last is the "Moonlight Run," which leaves at 9:30 p.m. But it’s on the 10:00 a.m. mailboat run that you see and learn the most.

“It’s the most interesting,” Legere says. “You’re going to see pretty much everything we do on that trip. You get to see how the islanders live and get their supplies. It gives you a feel for what island life is like and the people who live on the islands.” That group of island-dwellers is a mix of year-round residents, largely fishermen and lobstermen, and those with summer homes they occupy from June through Labor Day, who are mostly retired or work on mainland Portland. “I’ve grown up with them, and they’ve grown up with me,” Legere says of the people he’s taken back and forth for decades. He mentions it takes a certain kind of person to live on the islands—you have to be okay with isolation, limited access to day-to-day necessities, and schedule constraints. As he tells it, he’s seen people go nuts from these realities, adding, “They’re a slave to the boat schedules." I ask Legere if after spending so much time shuttling between islands he has an island home: “I wouldn’t live on the islands if you paid me,” he says.

Tickets for the Mailboat Run are sold at the Casco Bay Lines office on the Maine State Pier. Should you want to set off on foot to explore one of the five islands, you’re welcome to do so on Long Island, Great Chebeague, and Cliff, which also has a small cafe—the other islands are private, without public beaches, facilities, or restaurants—and come back on the next mail boat. The Mailboat Run is limited to three hours, so it still leaves plenty of time in the day to explore the bounty Portland has to offer.

The Mailboat Run costs $16 and leaves Maine State Pier in Portland at 10 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. every day from June 17 to September 4 (it operates on a different schedule outside of the summer months).

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The M/V Sophie C: the mail boat on New Hampshire’s Lake Winnipesaukee

Posted by Linda Fasteson

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M/V Sophie C., Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Drive to Weir’s Beach on Lake Winnipesaukee for a 2-hour ride aboard the mail boat M/V Sophie C.,  a full service U. S. Post Office complete with stamps and supplies.

Weir’s Beach, Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

The M/V Sophie C. is the United States’ oldest floating post office and the only floating post office on an inland waterway. It was built in Boston in 1945 as a supply ship for the U.S. Navy. A cabin was added later.

The M/V Sophie C. carries mail and passengers on Lake Winnipesaukee from mid-June 16 to mid-September

The postmistress in the mail boat M/V Sophie C.

The postmistress uses a unique cancellation stamp on all postcards that are mailed onboard.

post office in mail boat, Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Mail has been delivered to residents and summer campers this way since 1892. There are stops at four islands during the morning run and stops at five others in the afternoon.

mail deivery on Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Idlewild Association, Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Lake Winnipesaukee is a relaxing place where island time can be told by when the boat comes by.

mail boat, Jolly Island, Lake Winnipesaukee, N.H

Residents wait at the dock for deliveries. Children look forward to the boat’s daily arrival as an opportunity to buy one of the ice cream novelties or other snacks for sale onboard.

Jolly Island, Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

More than just mail

Cormorants are often spotted sunning themselves on rocks.

cormorants, Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Much to the amusement of passengers aboard the Sophie C., there is a tradition that when the mail boat leaves someone on the dock jumps into the lake.

the jump after mail delivery, Jolly Island, Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

dive for the mail boat, Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

To see the most divers visit when summer camps are in session.

How do I get a ride on the Sophie C mail boat? What time do I have to be at the Weirs docks and how do I get a ticket?

Here is a link that we hope will be helpful. https://cruisenh.com/pages/mailboat-cruises

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Historic Mail Route Jet Boat Tour

4.5 Hours Duration

Private Groups

Kid-Friendly

1950's Mail Boat Tour

Jet boat the ‘Historic Mail Boat Route’ just as Rogue River pioneers have done since 1895, when road access did not exist. We are one of the few remaining Mail Boats in the nation, and still deliver the mail to Agness, 32 miles upriver, on a daily basis. No whitewater here. Just a beautiful day on the Rogue River spotting wildlife, sharing history, and family fun.

All tours leave from the Port of Gold Beach , located on the southern shore of the Rogue River. Tours will begin loading 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure time, so please arrive a minimum of 20 minutes in advance.

The Historic Mail Route tour will have a meal break in the town of Agness (2 hours from departure).

Provided meal at Cougar Lane Lodge is a BBQ Plate that includes Ribs, Pulled Pork, Brisket, Muffin, Baked Beans, & Coleslaw. (Vegetarian options available upon request at lodge).

*All tour rates are subject to a 5% booking fee to cover USFS special use permit fees and USCG licensing fees. Additional fees may apply for overnights or high demand dates.

Tour Details

Adult: $89.00* Child (4-11): $59.00*  3 & Under: $11.00* 

Trip specifications

Example itinerary for Mail Route departure

• Depart Gold Beach
•       2 Hours by Boat
• Arrive Agness for meal
•       1 Hour Meal Break
• Depart Agness
•      1.5 Hours by Boat
• Arrive Gold Beach

Provided Meal

BBQ Plate with

Pulled Pork

Baked Beans

“Took the Mail Boat trip. A wonderful boat ride. Beautiful scenery. Abundant wildlife and very service oriented. John our boat pilot did a great job explaining river history and having fun” - Larry: Trip Advisor

Jerry's Rogue Jets, the original Rogue River jet boat tour. Experience nature based adventurous jet boating, wildlife, pristine wilderness, Pacific Coastal estuary, and commentary by veteran boatmen of the Rogue River. 

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On Lake Geneva, the mail comes by boat

This summer, an all-female crew is making the deliveries.

For the first time in its 108-year history, all five of the letter carriers this summer aboard the U.S. Mailboat Walworth on Lake Geneva in Wisconsin are women.

Known as jumpers, these special carriers leap from the moving boat onto piers to run the mail to mailboxes, collect outgoing mail and then jump back onto the boat, which is moving at 5 mph.

The jumpers serve 75 homes along the shore.

It’s a job that takes athleticism and attention to detail while offering a distinct opportunity for summer hires who make the cut.

Seasonal tryouts for high school and college-age candidates are held every year in early June.

Applicants are also required to have at least one year of experience as an employee of the Lake Geneva Cruise Line, which operates the mailboat.

More than a dozen applicants tried out this year for the five jumper spots. The jumpers also act as tour guides on the 2.5-hour mailboat trip that runs 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. daily during the summer.

Marie Nickolette and Marissa Torres-Raby are returning mailboat jumpers who said they are proud to be a part of the first all-female team. Both are 20-year-old University of Wisconsin students and former high school track runners.

“It’s the perfect summer job. It’s definitely a good way to get your steps in for the day. I just think it’s really a unique experience that not many people can say they do,” Nickolette said.

Torres-Raby has family ties to the position: Her siblings also worked for the Lake Geneva Cruise Line, including a brother who was a mailboat jumper.

“I wanted to work where they worked,” she said.

Mailboat jumpers are selected based on athletic skill and delivery, their ability to narrate tour information and for their overall enthusiasm.

The boat operates seven days a week and holidays, with daily newspaper delivery included. The jumpers also clean the boat as part of their duties and sell stamped postcards for tourists.

There are three jumpers on the boat during each tour. One is at the back of the boat in case one of the jumpers falls in and needs to be fished out. The jumpers wear life jackets that inflate as soon as they touch the water.

No one has fallen in the water this summer, but Nickolette said she fell in on her first day last year.

When it rains, there’s an art to what they do.

“You have to pattern your feet really quickly, so you don’t just jump and slide on the piers,” she said.

The Lake Geneva Cruise Line has a team of veteran mailboat jumpers who will take over the delivery route when the college students return to school before the last weeks of the summer season.

“All of our employees think it is a neat and unique way for our customers to receive mail, and of course they do not mind getting to hand off some of their packages,” said local Postmaster Christopher Taylor Jr.

Customers must request mailboat delivery each year, including filling out a change-of-address form.

USPS resumes normal delivery for the lakeside addresses once the season, which runs mid-June to mid-September, ends.

“This is a tradition the Lake Geneva Post Office is known for throughout the country, and we get many visitors from various parts of the country inquiring on the mailboat,” Taylor said.

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More to read.

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An unusual announcement about a US Navy submarine packed with cruise missiles is a loud message that puts Iran on notice

• The US publicly announced the deployment of a US Navy guided-missile submarine to the Middle East.
• The announcement is unusual and a clear signal of deterrence as an attack from Iran and its proxies appears imminent.
• USS Georgia is a significant threat capable of destructive missile strikes.

In a rather unusual move, the US overtly revealed its plans over the weekend for the movement of a guided-missile submarine into Middle Eastern waters as regional tensions soar.

The announcement is a clear and intentional warning to Iran and its proxies amid concerns that coming actions could send the region spiraling into further violence.

On Sunday, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin ordered the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Georgia to the Middle East, where the warship will join many other naval assets positioned across the US Central Command area of responsibility and in the nearby Eastern Mediterranean.

As of Tuesday, the submarine had yet to arrive in the area, Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, told reporters . The Georgia is still on its way, as are other assets like the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, which was also deployed to boost the US naval presence in and around the region.

Such a public announcement on the movements of a cruise-missile submarine, also known as an SSGN, is significant and unusual, Bryan Clark, a former US Navy officer and defense expert at the Hudson Institute, told Business Insider.

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Typically, he said, two or three of the four US SSGNs would be at sea at a given time, "and it would not be unusual for one to be in the Central Command region."

"What is unusual is for the US to announce that it is moving," he explained. "Normally, the DoD does not discuss submarine operations. The public announcement suggests an intent to deter Iranian aggression," he said, referring to the Department of Defense by its acronym.

The US military has engaged in this sort of signaling in other instances as well. For instance, as tensions in the Middle East began to skyrocket last fall, the US military posted photos of another SSGN transiting the Suez Canal . And more recently, the US Navy put out photos of a ballistic missile sub in waters off northern Europe in another flex of US naval might.

Still, the practice of announcing submarine movements is uncommon.

"Secretary Austin actually saying the Georgia is going to be in the area is extremely unusual, but it's sending that deterrence signal to a lot of people who might be considering what they're going to do next within the region," retired Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling, the former top Army general in Europe, told CNN this week.

Iran has vowed to take revenge after recent assassinations of top Hezbollah and Hamas leaders , which it blames on Israel. The stated intent in Tehran and among its proxies to retaliate has sparked concerns over a potential all-out regional conflict, putting the US, Israel, and other allies on higher alert.

In an effort to deter Iran, the Pentagon has deployed additional military assets to the Middle East. Along with his announcement of the Georgia's deployment, the secretary of defense has also ordered the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, equipped with F-35C fighter jets, to accelerate its transit to the area .

These moves build on a previous order that also called for the movement of fifth-generation fighters and warships armed with the ability to engage ballistic missiles into position in and around the Middle East.

"These US military force posture adjustments are designed to improve US force protection, to increase our support for the defense of Israel, and to ensure the United States is prepared to respond to a wide variety of contingencies," Ryder said Tuesday.

The Pentagon press secretary added that Austin and his Israeli counterpart, Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, had discussed a variety of topics during a Sunday phone call, including "our efforts to deter aggression by Iran, Lebanese Hezbollah, and other Iran-aligned groups across the region."

The ability to send stealthy, highly capable submarines off the coasts of US adversaries reflects the far-reaching might of the US Navy .

Deploying a guided-missile submarine such as the Georgia to the Middle East also gives the US a major firepower boost. The Georgia is carrying over 150 Tomahawk missiles, making "it a significant strike threat" to a variety of key Iranian military assets, Clark said.

"While aircraft would need to fly over Iranian territory to attack targets deep inside the country, such as the nuclear weapons facilities or ballistic missile launchers, the Georgia could position itself offshore of Iran and hit any spot inside the country with missiles," he explained.

That adds a significant capability to the US forces in the area in the event of a conflict. Ryder said Tuesday, though, that the primary US goal is preventing a fight in the first place.

"Our focus is on de-escalating the situation," he said. "We have put these additional capabilities into the region to enable us, as I highlighted, to protect our forces, but also to support the defense of Israel should it be attacked."

Watch: See the hectic flight deck of a US warship fighting Houthis in the Red Sea

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HURTIGRUTEN CRUISES

Destinations.

Hurtigruten's Norwegian Coastal Cruise along the scenic coast and fjords of Norway has often been praised as being one of the most beautiful voyages in the world. Each day of your voyage will yield unforgettable memories of natural beauty as you discover a coastline with an ever changing personality with a new revelation around every headland.

Spitsbergen

Remote, mysterious and extreme, the island of Spitsbergen is the crown of Arctic Norway. Located right on the southern fringe of the ever-frozen Arctic Ocean, this land is forged by ice, wind and sea. Here you will find both an untouched Arctic wilderness and a biological hot spot. Reigning this fragile food web is the top predator, the polar bear.

Greenland is a land of contrasts and truly a world of its own. Colossal icebergs in fantastic shapes and the inland ice - a sheet of ice that is kilometres thick. But the ice is not all. Greenland is also about green mountains, long fjords, precipitous cliffs, hot springs, beautiful flowers and fresh air. Animals like whales, seals, reindeer, musk oxen and polar bears also thrive here.

Hurtigruten - A Voyage Like No Other

Right to the heart of Norway and its people, is extraordinary voyage known as the Norwegian Coastal Express or Hurtigruten, meaning "Express Route" in the local tongue. This remarkable journey serves as a lifeline, transporting passengers, mail, and vital supplies to over 30 ports along the Norwegian coastline, many largely untouched by mainstream cruise liners.

Departing from Bergen, the Hurtigruten cruise embarks on a captivating odyssey, forging its way northward, traversing the Arctic Circle and beyond. With every twist and turn through the awe-inspiring wonders of the Norwegian coast, you will be immersed in a spectacle of nature's grandeur. Almost perpetually in sight of land, you will sail along one of the world's most breathtaking coastlines, navigating narrow inlets and uncovering the essence of this extraordinary expedition.

Enchanting hamlets pepper the route, nestled upon tiny islands, where the inhabitants rely on the arrival of Hurtigruten ships for their very survival. These vessels serve as a lifeline, delivering essential supplies and reuniting families and friends, perpetuating the symbiotic relationship between the communities and the sea.

Each Hurtigruten cruise ship possesses its own distinctive style and character, ensuring that no two journeys are ever alike. The ever-changing seasons, climate, flora, fauna, and encounters with local people, combined with the amiable English-speaking crew, transform each Hurtigruten voyage into a truly unique experience.

Fellow travelers from across the globe, sharing a mutual appreciation for extraordinary beauty, come together to revel in the splendorous landscapes and the relaxed ambiance on board. Many seize the opportunity to sail during the summer months, when the midnight sun casts its ethereal glow upon the horizon, bathing the breathtaking scenery in perpetual daylight.

As you step aboard your Hurtigruten ship, take pride in being part of a tradition that spans three centuries. It is this steadfast commitment to a rich heritage that has embedded Hurtigruten as an indispensable part of Norwegian life, ensuring its enduring significance for generations to come.

Hurtigruten Cruise

Hurtigruten has an old and illustrious history. Its meaning in Norwegian of "the express route" refers to the route's original use of facilitating the transport of goods between the two ends of the country. Nowadays, however, it is synonymous with a more leisurely, relaxed style of travel.

Often called "the world's most beautiful voyage", Hurtigruten voyages traverse Norway's western and northern coast between Bergen in the south and Kirkenes, deep in the arctic north. The approximately 780 miles (or 1,255 kilometres) of coastline between the two destinations are a dreamland of dramatic fjords, historic cities, incomparable seabird and marine life and, at certain times of the year, the mesmerising spectacle that is the Northern Lights.

Passengers joining one of our Hurtigruten Cruises have a choice of an extensive selection of comfortable cabins. Most outside cabins afford the opportunity to watch the panorama outside unfold through either a large picture window or a quaint porthole. Some of the suites also benefit from a private balcony. The views very much set the tone for the voyage itself, which aims to transport passengers away from their busy onshore lives in favour of immersion in the unique landscapes.

Life on board is relaxed and convivial. Food is traditional Norwegian-style and all ships are fully licensed. Expert lecturers accompany themed voyages but passengers on all voyages will find that there is a culture of sharing experiences of the trip with their fellow travellers.

Dress is informal although, of course, breathable, windproof and waterproof clothing is a must for voyages at any time of year. Winter departures necessitate thermal layers. UV sunglasses are useful throughout the year, even in winter due to the dazzling effect of even the thinnest streams of sunlight reflecting off ice and snow.

To add further interest to the voyage, all the ships are also working vessels. Their regular stops at the 34 ports along the route provide opportunities for the curious passenger to observe the loading and unloading of goods while also admiring the harbour areas.

The ports of call vary in size and purpose. Some belong to tiny island communities that rely on the Hurtigruten ships for supplies of food, mail, other essential goods and personal transport needs. Others are home to much larger communities whose wealth and status owes much to their background in the fishing, shipbuilding or mining industries. Bergen at the start of the voyage is perhaps the best-known location, with its Hanseatic mercantile history, its museums, shops and galleries, its fish market and the funicular railway offering spectacular trips to the summit of Mount Fløyen.

Beyond Bergen, every traveller is bound to find their own favourites. Perhaps it will be the pretty Art Nouveau town of Ålesund. Rebuilt after a devastating fire at the turn of the twentieth century, Ålesund is home to an impressive aquarium, which is actually built in to the coastline.

Fjord-lovers will adore the fairy tale landscapes of Geiranger. During the summer months, there is the additional opportunity to voyage into the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Geirangerfjord. Visitors can also opt to join onshore excursions to allow them to marvel at the fjords from an entirely different vantage point.

Synonymous for many with the Vikings, Trondheim is also Norway's ecclesiastical centre. In addition, it is home to one of Europe's most splendid Gothic cathedrals, Nidaros, and features a large number of picturesque and thoroughly photogenic wooden buildings, including the magnificent Stiftsgården palace.

The island chains of Lofoten and Vesterålen are a wildlife-lovers paradise. Sea eagles, guillemots, eider ducks, cormorants and puffins are only some of the bird species regularly spotted here. The area's rich marine life is also why so many fishermen make their livings here; their waterfront cabins (rorbuer) built on stilts are always much admired.

Few people can visit Norway without thinking of the herring trade. Harstad is the place to learn more, although this port town has also now embraced shipbuilding with equal gusto.

Hammerfest is the most northerly town in the world. Despite this, it remains mostly ice-free, thanks to the warming effects of the nearby Gulf Stream.

Kirkenes, where the coastal voyage turns south again for Bergen, lies only 10 kilometres from the Russian border. Largely insulated from the Gulf Stream, its deep harbour can become iced over in winter.

It may be difficult to decide which time of year to take a Hurtigruten Cruise. Spring is the ideal time to experience the contrast between the warmer south and the colder north, where ice has often not yet released its grip. The summer months are often the most popular, with many travellers keen to experience the “Land of the Midnight Sun”. Whatever time of year is chosen, passengers can be sure of a warm and hearty Norwegian welcome and an unforgettable encounter with some of the world's most awe-inspiring and beautiful landscapes.

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Suri Cruise moves into Carnegie Mellon dorm with help from mom Katie Holmes

Suri Cruise, daughter of actress Katie Holmes and actor Tom Cruise, has officially moved into her dorm at Carnegie Mellon University in Oakland, Daily Mail reported .

Suri, 18, moved in with Holmes’ help over the weekend, according to photos on the Daily Mail site.

Holmes, 45, starred as Joey Potter on “Dawson’s Creek,” and Tom Cruise, 62, has been filming “Mission: Impossible 8 — Dead Reckoning Part 2” after attending the Olympics closing ceremony in Paris, according to the Daily Mail.

Suri is Holmes’ only child and one of Tom Cruise’s three kids. Isabella Jane Cruise and Connor Cruise were both adopted by him during his marriage to actress Nicole Kidman.

Holmes was married to Tom Cruise from 2006 to 2012, according to Us Weekly .

Tom Cruise has been reportedly estranged from Suri, and she allegedly has no intention of reconnecting with her father, The New Zealand Herald reported . When asked whether Holmes had left him “in part to protect Suri from Scientology,” Tom replied: “That was one of the assertions, yes,” the Herald said.

As a freshman at Carnegie Mellon, Suri will share a dorm with a roommate, the Daily Mail said, and she will begin classes on Monday, according to the school’s website .

It was revealed that Suri will attend Carnegie Mellon via a TikTok post in May, where she could be seen wearing a sweatshirt from the school. Suri graduated from New York City’s LaGuardia High School, according to CBS News .

Suri Cruise has officially started her college career. https://t.co/FSY8hGBkBo pic.twitter.com/S3UuYYoqLq — New York Post (@nypost) August 20, 2024

In 2023, Holmes told Glamour that she likes to “protect” Suri from the public eye “because she was so visible at a young age,” according to People .

As of now, it’s unclear what Suri’s major will be at Carnegie Mellon. However, Holmes told Town & Country magazine that Suri is interested in pursuing a career in fashion or acting.

“Of course, I will miss the close proximity, but I’m really proud of her and I’m happy,” Holmes said to Town & Country. “I remember being this age, this time of beginnings. It’s exciting to learn about yourself, and I loved that time, so it makes me happy to think about it like that.”

When it comes to familiarity with Pittsburgh, Holmes played a role in the movie “ Wonder Boys ,” which was filmed in the region. Tom Cruise starred in “Jack Reacher ,” filmed in and around Pittsburgh.

Megan Swift is a TribLive reporter covering trending news in Western Pennsylvania. A Murrysville native, she joined the Trib full time in 2023 after serving as editor-in-chief of The Daily Collegian at Penn State. She previously worked as a Jim Borden Scholarship intern at the Trib for three summers. She can be reached at [email protected].

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Katie Holmes Opened Up About 18-Year-Old Suri Leaving For College After She Reportedly Dropped Tom Cruise’s Last Name At Her High School Graduation

In June, Tom Cruise was absent from Suri’s high school graduation, where she reportedly ditched her dad’s last name.

BuzzFeed Staff

Katie Holmes is gearing up for her daughter’s next chapter.

As I’m sure you know, exes Katie and Tom Cruise share an 18-year-old daughter, Suri Cruise.

When Tom and Katie settled their divorce in 2012, it was agreed that Suri would live primarily with her mom on the East Coast. Since then, Tom and Suri have rarely been seen together, prompting speculation that the two are estranged.

For context, Tom — who also shares two children, Connor, 29, and Isabella, 31, with his ex-wife, Nicole Kidman — hardly ever talks publicly about fatherhood. He made a rare appearance with Connor in London in June and was last seen with Isabella in December 2023.

Since most of Suri’s upbringing was centered in New York with Katie, the mother-daughter duo appear to have grown incredibly close and are often photographed together in the city.

And now, with Suri soon heading off to college, Katie has opened up about the mixed emotions of becoming an empty nester.

“I’m proud of my daughter,” Katie told Town & Country in a wide-ranging interview published this week. “Of course, I will miss the close proximity, but I’m really proud of her and I’m happy.”

Katie is incredibly private about Suri, so the interview noted that this was all the Dawson’s Creek star was willing to share about family life. However, she took the opportunity to reflect on her experiences as a young adult, confessing that it makes her “happy” to imagine that Suri will soon embark on her own exciting journey.

“I remember being this age, this time of beginnings,” said Katie, who was granted admission to Columbia University but decided to focus on her acting career instead. “It’s exciting to learn about yourself, and I loved that time, so it makes me happy to think about it like that.”

In May, a  TikTok  shared by one of Suri’s classmates — which is no longer available — showed the teen wearing a Carnegie Mellon University sweater, sparking speculation that she’ll be headed to Pittsburgh in the fall. Neither Katie nor Tom have publicly confirmed where Suri is attending college.

Tom was notably absent from Suri’s high school graduation ceremony in June, where she reportedly dropped “Cruise” from her name and instead went by “ Suri Noelle ” — a presumed nod to her mom’s middle name.

In 2013, Tom filed a defamation lawsuit against Bauer Publishing, challenging reports that he had “abandoned” Suri following his and Katie’s divorce. 

Claiming in the suit that he and a then-6-year-old Suri “spoke on the phone nearly every day,” Tom said: “I have in no way cut Suri out of my life — whether physically, emotionally, financially or otherwise.” The lawsuit was settled in December of that year. 

You can read Katie’s full interview with Town & Country here .

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