North Star Initiatives

"A rising tide lifts all boats."

Guided by Community. Anchored in Heart.

For more than a century, the M/S Mount Washington has navigated the waters of Lake Winnipesaukee, serving as a beacon of summer and a hallmark of the Lakes Region. But our journey isn't just about the miles we sail; it’s about the communities where we dock.

Just as sailors have looked to the North Star for centuries to find their way, we look to our neighbors in Laconia, Meredith, Wolfeboro, Center Harbor, and Alton Bay to guide our mission. These North Star Initiatives represent our permanent commitment to the people and places that make this region home.

Our Commitment

The North Star is a fixed point in the sky—it doesn't shift with the winds or the seasons. Similarly, our dedication to the Lakes Region is a constant. Through the North Star Initiatives, we pledge to:

Support Local

Develop and prioritize partnerships with local, community-focused nonprofits.

Transparent Giving 

Ensure our guests know exactly how their contributions are being used

Sustainable Impact

Create long-term relationships that provide stability for our local partners.

"Whether you are a local resident or a first-time visitor, when you support a North Star Initiative, you are helping us keep the spirit of Lake Winnipesaukee strong for everyone."

Proceeds benefit the NH Food bank and communities around the lake

The Big Catch

No one should face an empty cupboard. We are proud to partner with the the New Hampshire Food Bank to support the hundreds of Lakes Region families they serve.

Look for the "Big Catch" on our cocktail menu. Served in a fish tiki mug, this tropical citrus and coconut blend does more than just refresh.

  • Order the drink: Every "Big Catch" provides a meal for a local family of four.
  • Take the mug home: Purchase the souvenir mug for $20, and we will donate $10—enough to provide 16 meals.
  • For a $3 donation, you'll provide 4 meals for a family in need, and receive a wooden fish tag. Write a message of hope and clip it to our community net as a visual representation of our collective impact— neighbors helping neighbors.
Learn More

Our Crew + Your Cause

The Flagship Four

The heart of our company is our crew. Through the Flagship Four program, our team members personally nominate local non-profits to receive a donation of four cruise tickets for their fundraising efforts. Altogether, this employee-led initiative provides more than $20,000 in annual support to the organizations that keep the Lakes Region strong. It’s our way of ensuring the "Smile of the Great Spirit" shines on the causes that matter most to our people.

Learn More

A benefit for the Lakes Region Children's Fund

Christmas in July

Enjoy a memorable evening aboard the M/S Mount Washington featuring live entertainment, local tastings, and a silent auction, all to benefit the Greater Lakes Region Children’s Fund. Best of all, every ticket purchased directly sponsors a special daytime cruise for a local child in need, continuing our 44-year legacy of supporting families in our community.

Learn More

A benefit for The League of NH Craftsmen

Makers on the Mount

Just as the M/S Mount Washington has been a symbol of New Hampshire’s enduring spirit for generations, the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen has spent a century protecting and promoting the standards of fine craft. This isn't just a cruise; it’s an opportunity to experience the lake like never before, surrounded by the creators who keep our local traditions alive.

Learn More