FAQs

Question

Will there be a ferry returning to Portsmouth in the evenings daily?

Answer

No. This year the ferry only runs daily from Portsmouth at 1130am to Star Island by 1:30pm and back from Star Island departing at 2:30pm and Returning to the docks in Portsmouth before 4pm. Unfortunately, we were unable to secure a private charter to ferry guests back to the mainland after the wedding.

Question

Do guests need to stay overnight on Star Island in order to attend the wedding?

Answer

At least for 1 night, yes. If you would like to stay in a mainland hotel the night(s) before the wedding, you're welcome to use our discount code for the following Portsmouth hotel accommodations (applicable for stays 2+ nights): - AC Hotel Portsmouth - Residence Inn Downtown Portsmouth - Hampton Inn Downtown Portsmouth Please contact the bride or groom if you'd like to use the 15% off code before you book.

Question

What's the dress code?

Answer

Cocktail/semi-casual, but more importantly, please be comfortable for outdoor weather (sun, rain, wind, cold, rocky hills, mud, etc). The elements are unpredictable on-island and we want you to feel comfortable so leave the high heels at home and don't button that top button too tight!

Question

What is the weather usually like on Star Island?

Answer

As the wedding will be at a sunset, we're hoping to have breezy late-Summer New England weather where the high is 77 degrees and the low is 62 degrees. It can get a bit chilly for some after sunset due to the ocean breezes, so please opt for a jacket or shoulder covering for the reception. Bug spray will be provided.

Question

Are COVID-19 vaccines required to visit Star Island?

Answer

Unlike 2021, vaccines will be required in order to visit Star Island throughout 2022. Please plan to travel with a copy of your vaccination card to show proof at the docks prior to boarding the ferry to Star Island.

Question

Can/Should I Bring My Kids?

Answer

Absolutely! Please confirm with the bride & groom prior. We do recommend families that only want to visit the island on the wedding day to consider leaving young children home, though. While they are most welcome to attend should you want to bring them and we approve, be aware they will need to stomach a 45-minute boat ride with you back and forth from the mainland to the island in order to attend. For friends and family staying on-island for the wedding or for multiple nights, you will be in charge of your child's welfare at all times, but we are trying to book vaccinated babysitters to watch kiddos on the nearby dragon playground during our post-ceremony happy hour. We are also looking into bedtime hall monitors for certain accommodation locations. Ultimately, we want our wedding to be as much off of a night for you as possible while still including beloved close family.

Question

Can I bring a date or other members of my family?

Answer

Please ask us, otherwise, if your invitation says “and Guest” or "+ 1" then yes. If not, we would prefer if it was just you.

Question

What's it like staying on Star Island overnight?

Answer

Meals are included daily, but while life on Star Island is comfortable, it is not "modern" in part due to the community's green commitment to the conservation of resources. For example, you'll have a recycling bin in your room, but not a TV. Please visit the Star Island website to learn more about the available accommodation types for overnight guests: https://starisland.org/info/accomodations/

Question

Are meals and island activities included for overnight guests on Star Island?

Answer

Yes! All of your meals and the many activities available on-island are included in the cost of your stay. Meals are served daily in the hotel's dining room at 8:30a-9:30am, 12:30pm-1:30pm, and 6:30-7:30pm. Adults 18+ are welcome to join Fellowship Hour in Newton Center daily as well where 21+ drinks are served prior to dinner. to learn more about the schedule of activities, visit the Chalk Board in the main Hotel Lobby when you're on-island.

Question

How much does it cost to stay overnight on Star Island?

Answer

It depends on the number of guests you're traveling with, their ages, and your room type preference(s). Please visit the Travel Info page to see full pricing details.

Question

When should I book travel?

Answer

If you're flying, plan to book travel 3-4 months in advance to get the best airline prices and availability. We recommend flying into the Boston airport and catching an Uber or a Lyft to the docks in Portsmouth. If you're staying in a hotel the night(s) leading up to the wedding, we suggest booking 1-2 months prior to your stay. Don't forget to reach out to the bride and groom for the discount code. No matter your post-wedding return plans, note you will not be back in Portsmouth post-wedding, potentially as late as 4pm on Wednesday, 8/3/22.

Question

Can I arrive on Star Island on Sunday or Monday instead of Tuesday?

Answer

Yes! You can stay as many days on Star Island as you'd like. Please visit the Travel Info page for pricing details. Please confirm your arrival date with the bride and groom so they can be sure to purchase your ferry boat tickets for the correct arrival date.