ABOUT US...

John and Arminda Tavares started Capt. John Boats in 1946 offering Deep Sea Fishing trips aboard a 46’ wooden boat that operated from the State Pier. Today, their son Stanley, who took over in the mid 1970’s, oversees a fleet of four modern vessels.

In an industry of many new players, Capt John Boats was a pioneer in whale watching and is regarded by many as the example of how whale watching on passenger boats should be conducted. As new legislation has been put in place to protect whales from hazardous boat operators, the captains and Naturalists of Capt John Boats have played an active role in the process. Some of Capt. John’s Naturalists have sat on the panels that made up the “whale watch guidelines” that are followed by all commercial operators today.

When the division of Marine Fisheries wanted to protect its depleting North Atlantic Cod fish stocks by imposing bag limits and size requirements on the recreational fisherman, again, Capt. John Boats was active in the process. Today’s Deep Sea Fishing Trips are not just excursions to catch fish; they are educational excursions where passengers are taught the importance of conservation.

As we enter our 62nd year it is our goal to continue to be a leader in the industry.

FACTS...

• Our fleet of vessels consists of ’85 foot and 100’ foot aluminum gulf crafts accommodating up to 250 persons.
• These vessels are all inspected by the U.S. coast guard annually.
• All boats are outfitted with the most up to date state of the art electronics and equipment.
• On board, enjoy cruising on one of two open decks or relax in the climate controlled main cabin.
• We have a complete galley service available serving your favorite food and beverages including alcohol.
• Our boats have clean mens’ and ladies’ rooms on every boat. We have limited wheel chair accessibility.
• All of our captains are U.S. coast guard licensed, certified in CPR and first aid and are all in a random drug testing program.
• Capt John Boats is a member of the National Party Boat Association, The Passenger Vessel Association, American Bus Association, National Tour Association, and A.A.A.