M/S Mount Washington Cruises Into 131st Season

Center Harbor, NH --- With a successful “Shakedown Cruise” behind her, the grand dame of Lake Winnipesaukee, the 230’ motor ship Mount Washington, will begin an historic 131st season. The shakedown cruise has become an annual rite of spring in the Lakes Region, but is actually held for the purpose of a ship wide inspection by New Hampshire’s Department of Safety, Marine and Fire Divisions. Upon completion of the inspection the owners were given certificates to operate for the 2003 cruising season. Invited guests that included State Officials, local dignitaries, members of the tourism industry and media were aboard to witness the crew taking the venerable ship through emergency maneuvers.

The first public cruise will be Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, while the official cruise season will be from May 18 through October 26, offering daily scenic and evening dinner dance cruises from the “Mount’s” summer home port, Weirs Beach. The “Mount” also services the ports of Meredith, Wolfeboro, Center Harbor and Alton Bay.

“As we strive to keep up with the times, we take pride in being the stewards of this historical New Hampshire attraction” say Captain Jim Morash, General Manager of the Winnipesaukee Flagship Corporation. “It is my belief that this company has transcended time because of the dedication to service and commitment to excellence from the many owners and thousands of employees throughout its 131 year history.”

The proud tradition of the Mount Washington started in 1872 with the 175’ side-wheeler, which plied the waters of Winnipesaukee until she was destroyed by fire in December of 1939. Today’s vessel, the motor-ship Mt. Washington, started her career in Vermont, on Lake Champlain, in 1888 under the name of “Chateauguay”. She had an iron hull built from ore mined in Chateauguay, New York. She was purchased by Winnipesaukee Steamship Company in 1940; transported in twenty sections via rail from Shelburne, Vermont to Lakeport, New Hampshire; reassembled, given a new super structure; outfitted with new engines and christened the Mt. Washington II. The venerable ship has kept up with market demands through many physical and operational changes. In her many years, it’s been estimated that the “Mount” has carried over 10 million people, including Presidents, Senators, Congressmen, foreign dignitaries, sports stars, movie stars and numerous other personalities. Morash points out, “Although we’ve carried a fair amount of famous people, it’s the average family that is the heart and soul of our business.”

Today in addition to operating the “Mount” the Winnipesaukee Flagship Corporation also owns and operates the 74’ U.S. Mail Boat Sophie C., and 68’ Doris E. Both vessels offer scenic lake cruises in July and August form Weirs Beach. Those who wish to learn more about Mount Washington cruises and its offerings may contact their offices by calling toll free 1-888-843-6686 or by visiting their web site: www.cruiseNH.com.

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