With 355 years of history, The Olde Public Ferryway serves as Beverly's open arms for visitors looking to moor up for a bite to eat, enjoy the park atop the gangway, or take a stroll along the Capozza Pier, a favorite spot of local anglers. The Beverly Harbormaster's Department oversees 12.5 miles of coastline, including waters in the Danvers and Bass Rivers, as well as the water surrounding Misery, Little Misery, and Bakers Islands. The Harbormaster handles all permits for vessels moored in City waters, tied at slips or seasonally rack stored on waterfront property with launching capacity. Harbor and Mooring Regulations Manuals are available at the Harbormaster's office. Harbormaster's duties also include all those of a sworn Police Officer.
Specific objectives are to maintain a physical presence by patrolling harbor and waterfront areas.
The Beverly Harbormaster's Department works to keep Beverly Harbor safe, by enforcing local and state boating laws and safety regulations, as well as coordinating and assisting in first aid, water rescue, and emergency evacuations. Members of the Harbormaster Department maintain certification in first responder and CPR as required in Chapter III, Section 201 of Mass. General Laws. The Harbormaster's Department also inspects private mooring systems to ensure issuance of and compliance with terms of City mooring permits.