National Geographic Day Tour: The World of Oysters
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Port
Boston, Massachusetts, US
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$499
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3¾ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Oysters have been enthusiastically enjoyed by humanity since at least the era of the Roman Empire. For shellfish fans, New England is a must-visit destination synonymous with quality seafood.
Spend time at an oyster farm in Duxbury Bay, where you'll find out how shellfish are produced as you tour the farm by boat, guided by an oyster farmer. As an exclusive perk for National Geographic travelers, you will be invited to pick your own oysters from the bay and, after a shucking lesson, enjoy them fresh from the water.
Visit the hatchery, where the life cycle of the oyster is revealed. It takes two years for these bivalves to grow to full size, and at this farm, they are grown in a variety of locations to take advantage of fresh water from the river and saltwater in the bay. Each location influences the flavor profile of the shellfish, though the presence of many thousands of oysters also has many benefits for the ecosystem.
Shellfish, if sourced responsibly, can be one of the most sustainable forms of protein available. They are also great filters, cleaning the water they live in and creating "reefs" that shelter other marine animals.
After the tour, savor a traditional New England seafood lunch with a newfound appreciation of sustainable shellfish sourcing.
Notes:
This National Geographic Day Tour is certified against the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria. A portion of the proceeds from this National Geographic Day Tour go to the National Geographic Society to fund research and sustainable programs around the world. Tour does not operate on Saturdays. Dress warmly in layers with a wind- and waterproof outer layer; bring gloves, a scarf and a warm hat.