The Madaket Ferry, operated by the Humboldt Bay Harbor Cruise and owned by the Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum, holds the proud title of being the oldest vessel in continuous service in the United States. This charming ferry not only offers a glimpse into California’s maritime history but also features the smallest licensed bar in the state, making it a unique spot for both locals and visitors alike. The ferry runs narrated 75-minute cruises from May through October, with select sailings during the winter holidays.

As the Madaket glides along the picturesque Eureka Waterfront, passengers hear captivating stories about the area’s rich history—the timber industry, local wildlife, and the maritime activities that shaped this community. Dogs are welcome aboard as long as they’re well-behaved, which opens up a genuinely fun outing for you and your dog to experience Humboldt Bay together. Before boarding, give your dog a chance to relieve themselves; you’ll want to clean up after them since keeping the deck clean matters to all passengers.

The cruise itself gives you plenty of opportunities to spot the bay’s wildlife. Seals, sea lions, and various bird species are common sightings, and your dog will probably find the whole experience entertaining—the water, the movement, the activity on deck. The setting is genuinely beautiful, especially on clearer days when you can take in the full scope of the bay.

The ferry’s location at the foot of “C” Street Boardwalk near Fisherman’s Plaza makes it easy to build this into a larger Eureka exploration. You could easily grab lunch at one of the nearby restaurants before or after your cruise, then walk your dog along the waterfront boardwalk to work off some energy. If your dog gets anxious on boats, you might want to bring something calming along, though most dogs seem fine with the steady motion once they settle in. Tickets are reasonably priced, and the narration keeps you entertained the whole way through.