Our weeklong B.O.A.T. C.A.M.P. program aboard the F/V Erica Lee seeks to develop a lifelong connection to the diverse ecology of our nearby coastal waters through experiential education aboard the F/V Erica Lee. During the week, and depending on weather and sea conditions, we may haul lobster traps, tow an otter trawl to collect and examine sea life on the ocean bottom, fish for a variety of sustainable species using a variety of traditional New England methods, explore the Isles of Shoals, tidepools and beaches, sing sea chanteys, play an instrument, tell stories and cool off at the beach.
Our morning starts at 9 a.m. inside our waterfront classroom, where we talk about our plan for the day and introduce topics and stories that provide context for the day's adventure. Then we'll head out aboard the F/V Erica for the day! Throughout the week we'll explore relevant, age-appropriate topics in marine biology, coastal ecology, oceanography, ocean conservation, maritime history, navigation and knot-tying. No two days on the water are ever the same and every day is different, no matter how many years youth have attended.
No prior boating experience is expected or required. However, this is a dynamic learning environment aboard a floating classroom at sea, and comfort in this type of setting is essential for the safety and enjoyment of all students and staff. If you have questions about whether BOAT CAMP is a good fit for your child, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We have successfully accommodated a variety of learning, developmental and medical needs over the years, but this must start with an open and honest dialogue between your family and our crew as to what may be best for your child at this time in their journey through childhood.
Captain Rob’s debriefs every day were a highlight for me as a parent! Although my son loved filling me in on his day, it helped me to have some questions to ask. 🙂 Also just generally loved the excitement of the captain and the staff was great. I trusted everyone completely to keep the kids safe and involved.
- Summer 2025 Parent
Information
Time:
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost:
$699 (Financial aid available. Most families pay in monthly installments from time of registration through April. The deposit is $125.)
Location:
Departs and returns to the Newburyport waterfront.
Summer 2026
- June 15 - 19
- June 22 - 26
- June 29 - July 2 ~ $559 for this 4-day week
- July 6 - 10
- July 13 - 17 ~ Teen Shoals Overnight*
- July 20 - 24 ~ Girl's Only week
- July 27 - 31
- Aug 3 - 7
- Aug 10 - 14
* We are again planning a teen Isles of Shoals Overnight, and it likely will be this week and at an additional fee.
My son texted me multiple times at work on his way home, explaining how many fish he caught and how excited he was. He never texts me.
- Summer 2025 Parent
Merrohawke's programs are always well run. It's the only camp program where I feel completely safe and in complete trust that my kids are safe and well cared for. That stems from a trust in their capabilities, both in the forest and on the water, but also in character. I have no doubt that they will look out for my kids the way they look out for their own, and hire staff who also carry that same strong moral compass.
- Summer 2025 Parent
I’m always amazed at the staff and how they interact and carry themselves. For young adults they show a lot of maturity and it’s clear that they are invested in making sure the campers have an excellent experience. I love that they are exposed to such positive role models.
- Summer 2024 Parent
I tell everyone about the program. The focus on outside, grit, discipline, personal responsibility are all amazing attributes, focused on during the week. It is such a special, unique opportunity for kids and we are so lucky to be a part of it. Thank you!
- Summer 2024 Parent
BOAT CAMP is a major part of my kids summer. They talk about it throughout the whole year. I view Merrohawke as being a total placed-based learning experience where they learn a lot of skills and biology as well as gain information about the land and sea they live alongside- while having a massive amount of fun. These experiences are truly developing a sense of stewardship.
- Summer 2024 Parent
Everyone we worked with and communicated with was great. [Our son] has a life-threatening nut allergy and everyone was so accommodating and everything went smoothly. Daily updates were great and the information given on what to bring/pack prior to camp could not have been better. We were so prepared going in and [our son] had a great time as a result.
- Summer 2024 Parent
Crew
This program is led by Capt. Rob Yeomans, who has taught science for more than 30 years in public and private school settings and is a co-founder of Merrohawke. You can learn more about Capt. Rob here.
In addition, the program is supported by at least five more teaching staff, who are former Merrohawke students and have several years experience on the water and at BOAT CAMP.
