SPECIAL ADVENTURE: Dog-friendly Paw-rate Sunset Cruise

ABOUT THE EVENT:
Arrr, mates! Sometimes even the bravest captains must bow to the seas. Mother Nature scuttled our original cruise date, but have no fear—we’ve hoisted the anchor again and combined both of our planned adventures into one grand sunset paw-rate voyage with Al Gauron out of Hampton, NH.

This be no ordinary sail. It’s the only dog-friendly cruise offered by Al Gauron, and it’s now bigger, bolder, and brimm’in with pirate spirit. Together, we’ll cruise the harbor and Merrimack aboard the 90-foot Northern Star—the largest and most spacious vessel in the fleet—reserved just for our Golden Dog crew and our salty sea dogs.

Bring yer own grub and non-alcoholic swill (no glass bottles), or enjoy vittles from the galley—hamburgers, hot dogs, soft drinks, and snacks—plus grog from the cash bar. Whether yer pup be a seasoned sailor or ye come alone to feel the sea air, ye won’t want to miss this one-night-only voyage.

Pirate Costume Contest

To mark International Pirate Month (which was in August), we’ll be hostin’ a rollickin’ Pirate Costume Contest for both humans and dogs:

• Best Costumed Human – 1st, 2nd, 3rd place
• Best Dressed Dog – 1st, 2nd, 3rd place

Our panel o’ judges be none other than the spirited Northern Star crew and yer trusty Golden Dog Adventure Guides. (Note: don’t make yer pup wear attire if they aren’t comfortable.)

Cruise Details

• Vessel: Northern Star, Al Gauron’s 90-foot flagship
• Duration: Private 2-hour sunset cruise
• Course: Merrimack River and harbor
• Vibe: Dog-friendly, spacious, no public crowds—just our merry band o’ paw-rates

Why Ye’ll Love This Combined Adventure

• Two Events, One Epic Voyage: Our sunset cruise and paw-rate party now sail together as one grand night.
• Paw-rates Welcome: Dogs can sniff the salty air, explore the paw-friendly deck, and mingle with fellow mates.
• Grub & Grog: BYO snacks & non-alcoholic drinks (no glass), or feast from the galley; cash bar aboard.
• Wildlife Watch: Keep yer spyglass handy for seabirds or other sea dwellers.
• Crew of Kindred Spirits: Dog lovers, pirate folk, and adventurers together.
• Sprawl & Relax: Plenty o’ room to stretch yer sea legs and breathe easy.

If yer dog be uneasy in such waters, let ’em snooze on land while ye join the Golden Dog crew for merriment.

Event Highlights

• Private 2-hour sunset cruise on the Northern Star
• Dog-friendly accommodations throughout the vessel
• Onboard food, snacks, and cash bar available
• Pirate-themed costume contest for people & pups
• Scenic harbor views and possible wildlife sightings
• A rare chance to connect, relax, and create lasting memories

Our 2024 cruises were a smash hit—happy pups, fine weather, and even a double rainbow last fall. Don’t let this ship sail without ye—this combined adventure be one for the history books.

IS THIS EVENT GOOD FOR REACTIVE DOGS?
Reactive Dog Level 4. See our Comfort Chart for explanation. This would not be a comfortable environment for a dog who does not like being around people or dogs or has not experienced a boat ride before. We will be spread out on the boat but there will be a lot going on that your dog may react to. You are more than welcome to attend without your dog if you would like. If you have concerns or questions about if this event is right for your dog, please email woof@goldendognh.com for assistance.

COST: For maximum happiness, 1 dog per person please. Scroll down to purchase.

• • Golden Dog Members – $40/person (Your special pricing will be reflected in the CART.)
  • Not-Yet-Members – $55/person (Join the membership for $15/month and enjoy this event at the member rate as well as a month of benefits!)
  • **NOTE: $5 cash parking fee will be due day of event to park at the state-run parking lot.**
  • The RAIN DATE for this event is Sunday, October 5th from 5:30 – 7:30pm.

Need to change your reservation? Please email cancel@goldendognh.com. Full refund issued if cancellation received 14 days prior to event start time, otherwise no refund if canceled after. 

DIRECTIONS/PARKING:
Directions and parking information will be provided to participants 24 hours prior to the event.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE JOINING AN EVENT:
Please review our Club Guidelines, sign our Liability Waivers & Release Forms, and read our covid guidelines on our Events & Activities page.

CANCELLATIONS:
If weather or covid conditions make gathering and walking unsafe, the event will be cancelled and registered participants will receive a email cancellation notice. It will also be announced in the Event section of the Facebook Group and on this Calendar page.

QUESTIONS:
If you have questions, text/call (603) 815-2453 or email woof@goldendognh.com.