Mount Washington Cruises Acquires the Winnipesaukee Belle

Belle will undergo an extensive refurbishment with plans to relaunch for its 40th anniversary.


MARCH 30, 2023: WEIRS BEACH, NH – The Winnipesaukee Flagship Corp. has acquired the Winnipesaukee Belle, formerly owned and operated by the Wolfeboro Inn in Wolfeboro, NH. 

The two companies mutually agreed that a sale of the vessel would be in the best interest of this local attraction to expand the schedule and service the community in a greater capacity.  

“The COVID-19 pandemic presented a number of challenges for the Belle, with staffing and maintenance being a constant struggle,” said Janell LaFleche, General Manager of the Wolfeboro Inn. “This is a bittersweet moment for us; however, we know the Belle’s best chance for long term success is under the stewardship of a company that specializes in cruise vessels and is fully equipped with resources to support her operation.” 

“Operating large passenger vessels on Lake Winnipesaukee is a challenge we understand all too well,” said Jared Maraio, General Manager of Mount Washington Cruises. “We know we are among the few with the capacity to perform the regular maintenance that is needed for a vessel the size of the Belle, as well as the maintenance facility and a talent pool of experienced crew.”

Launched in 1985, the Winnipesaukee Belle is 65 feet in length and can accommodate 150 passengers. The vessel will be transported to the Mount Washington Cruises shipyard in Center Harbor, where it will undergo a lengthy refurbishment. It is expected to return to service in 2025 for her 40th anniversary. 

The Winnipesaukee Flagship Corporation operates the M/S Mount Washington, the U.S. Mailboat M/V Sophie C., the Winnipesaukee Spirit, and the M/V Doris E. 

The M/S Mount Washington has welcomed millions of passengers from around the world for 150 years. It is considered a symbol of New Hampshire. The family-owned Mount now operates May through October, offering daytime scenic, evening dinner & dance, and special themed cruises. To learn more about Mount Washington Cruises please call toll-free (603) 366-5531 or visit cruisenh.com. 


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