We are sorry that you felt rushed. As specified in our literature, our tours do require guests to walk across the approximately 1/2 mile boardwalk going to and from the lighthouse. For safety, we try to keep our guests together with the guide who carries a radio. You are mistaken about our boat, it was completely renovated in 2021 and was fully inspected by the Coast Guard in the spring of 2022.

We are very sorry that you were unable to complete your trip. All of our literature, including website descriptions of the tour and confirmation letters state that footwear with closed heel or strap is required. We do this, and have had this same requirement for 18 seasons, for the safety of our guests. Boarding the boat on a rocky beach, disembarking on the ramp at the island, walking the boardwalk and climbing the stone steps of the tower can pose risks with “flip flops.” Our staff person was not being difficult , but was following our policy of many years and did offer an option that some guests have taken in the past.

It is unfortunate that you saw Wood Island Lighthouse from over a mile away rather than on one of our tours, where you can see the fully restored and furnished property. From such a distance, the black security screens mandated by the Coast Guard do give the house a dark look, but close up, it is in great shape.