Borden Flats Lighthome
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Experience the life of a 
​Lighthouse Keeper!


​We are so blessed with the popularity of our Overnight Keepers' Program! Please click our RESERVATIONS tab above to book for 2022 and avoid losing out on this memorable experience!

Imagine spending a night (or two!) in one of only two offshore lighthouses
in all of America available for a memorable overnight experience!
What a romantic way to celebrate your anniversary, birthday, proposals or just getting away from everyday life and checking it off your bucket list, while at the same time supporting the preservation of this beautiful historic landmark!  
Our Overnight Keepers Program sells out each season, so reserve your place in history now before it's too late.
 
(please scroll down for photos, overnight rates and complete info)   
      

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            "STAY the LIGHT"

Click on "RESERVATIONS" on top of any page to CHECK AVAILABLE DATES and make your on-line reservations ASAP as we will sell out!
YOU MUST READ THE FAQs (on the right) PRIOR TO BOOKING SO YOU ARE TOTALLY FAMILIAR WITH ALL OPERATIONS/INSTRUCTIONS DURING YOUR STAY.
2021 OVERNIGHT KEEPERS' RATES:
(Strict Check-in times: 5pm - Check-out: 12 noon)
SPRING SEASON- April & May : $395. nt. (SOLD OUT)
SUMMER SEASON- June-September: $449. nt. (SOLD OUT)
FALL SEASON: October & November $395. nt. FEW DATES LEFT  (plus optional $75 cleaning fee, if preferred)
(DECEMBER DATES are available by request only- i.e. Christmas, New Years Eve, etc.)

PLEASE NOTE: Nightly accommodations are limited to only TWO guest Light Keepers per night - all Light Keepers must be 21 years or older. 
We certainly adore them - but sorry, no pets allowed

                                   ***PLEASE BE ADVISED***    
   
  AS PART OF YOUR OVERNIGHT LIGHT KEEPER DUTIES, YOU ARE ASKED TO VOLUNTEER BY LEAVING THE LIGHTHOUSE IN THE SAME CLEANED, ORIGINAL CONDITION IT WAS UPON YOUR ARRIVAL.  SUCH DUTIES INCLUDE:  STRIPPING and REMAKING YOUR BED,  (LINENS INCLUDED) WASHING YOUR DISHES, VACUUMING COMMON AREAS AND CLEANING COUNTERTOPS AND SINK AREAS. 
    
WE ARE SO THANKFUL THAT 99% OF OUR CARING GUESTS ALREADY VOLUNTEER TO "LEAVE IT AS THEY FOUND IT,"   BUT FOR GUESTS WHO PREFER NOT TO ASSIST WITH CLEANING, WE DO OFFER AN OPTIONAL $75.00 CLEANING FEE WHEN YOU MAKE YOUR RESERVATION. 
     THANK YOU for your cooperation and dedication to helping us keep the Light pristine and preserved!
* Please note: IF CHOOSING STAYS in APRIL, MAY, OCTOBER, NOVEMBER & DECEMBER, BE PREPARED FOR WEATHER ISSUES SUCH AS COLD TEMPS, WINDS, RAIN OR SNOW.  IF YOU BOOK DURING THESE MONTHS, PLEASE UNDERSTAND IT WILL BE CHILLY, SIMILAR TO STAYING IN A WINTER CABIN.  HOWEVER, WE DO HAVE SMALL PORTABLE PROPANE HEATERS TO TAKE AWAY SOME OF THE CHILL!  IT'S A GREAT TIME TO SNUGGLE UP WITH BLANKET AND A GOOD BOOK OR WATCH A MOVIE!


CHECK-IN INSTRUCTIONS:
(All overnight stays include complimentary boat service for your arrival and departure)
***All guest Keepers are required to sign a waiver of liability.***

CHECK-IN: 5pm (Staff does not arrive any earlier than 4:50pm so arriving earlier than 5pm is unnecessary)
CHECK-OUT: 12 NOON
Please plan to arrive AT 5pm check-in time, at 
Borden Light Marina, 1 Ferry St. Fall River, MA for your complimentary 2-3 minute boat ride to our Lighthouse.
(it's only 1500 ft. from marina dock)

Please call your Light Keeper Kevin @ 401-595-5777 approx. 10 minutes before your arrival to the marina to coordinate meeting at the marina parking gate for parking instructions and check-in. 

We will assist with your bags onto the launch boat for the short  ride out to the Light.  Upon arrival to the Light, you will be required to sign the insurance waiver and offered a tour of the history and operation and safety precautions of the Light, and then left to enjoy this one-of-a-kind, memorable experience as Light Keepers for the evening.
We'll return to pick you up at 12 noon next day (or earlier if you prefer) for check-out. (when you'll wished you had booked 2 nights!)
Please note: We are not a typical hotel-like operation where you can arrive or depart whatever time you wish- simply because we must coordinate your free boat service to/from the Light, so we ask that you plan your arrival accordingly and adhere to the posted check-in/out times. 

YOU MUST READ THE FAQs (on the right) PRIOR TO BOOKING SO YOU ARE TOTALLY FAMILIAR WITH ALL OPERATIONS/INSTRUCTIONS DURING YOUR STAY.
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS:
After your visit, you must then travel home safely and,
repeatedly tell all your friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, and anyone else you encounter along your journey of life how wonderful your experience was, and how badly they need to follow in your historic footsteps by visiting www.bordenflats.com to book their own incredible Light Keeper's stay! (LOL!) 

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Light Keeper Kevin
​"We look forward to sharing 'The Light' with you... many thanks for your support in preserving this priceless piece of maritime history."

Respectfully,
Kevin M. Ferias
Light Keeper/Owner 
& Asst. Lightkeeper Paul Hoey


INCLUDED AMENITIES:
*Kitchenette with dorm-sized refrigerator, microwave, 4-burner gas stove/oven, glasses, mugs, plates, cups, utensils and spices. Percolator coffee pot and K Cup coffee maker. Free bottled water.
*1/2 bathroom with sink and R/V style toilet

(sorry no shower)
*Outdoor gas grill/utensils (free propane provided)
*32" LCD Flat-screen TV w/ DVD player and 20+ DVDs ( or BYODVDs)
(Local broadcast channels from HD antenna)
*One Queen-sized, pillow-top bed (linens included)
*Indoor heat
(small, portable propane heaters only) *NOTE: Please bring warm clothing as the portable heaters can remove the chill, but can not fully warm like a large home heating system. It is after all, a 139 year old lighthouse in the middle of the bay! :)
* Bring your own ice in a soft-sided cooler if so desired.
*Several cushioned chairs, Adirondack chairs, bistro dining set and pillows amongst our 3 outside decks.

We certainly adore them- but sorry, no pets are allowed. :(

___***NO SMOKING ALLOWED***___
Borden Flats Light is a priceless, 139 yr. old historic landmark - proudly registered with the U.S. National Park Service Registry of Historic Places and therefore we must request NO SMOKING on the premises.

OUR CANCELLATION POLICY:
Our Light Keepers Overnight Educational Program is extremely popular and completely sells out each season.  All overnight stays are conducted  
RAIN or SHINE (unless otherwise cancelled by BFL due to safety reasons)  We are unable to accept your cancellation of your stay due to common weather issues, like rain, fog, cold, snow, etc. 


However, severe weather or high wind/waves can prevent safe  passage out and access up onto the Lighthouse. These cancellations are solely at the discretion of our staff and based on closely monitored, local marine forecasts, and if WE are forced to cancel your stay, your payment will be fully honored toward re-scheduling to a future date. 

PLEASE NOTE: If you cancel within 72 hours of your arrival date, for any reason, your payment cannot be refunded as we will not be able to rebook your date.
If you need to change your reservation, and it's prior to
60 days of your arrival date, we will be happy to honor your payment towards booking a future date.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!


Frequently Asked Questions 
(please read all before your stay!)


Q: Does the lighthouse operate like a typical hotel or bed & breakfast?
Sorry but NO - The lighthouse is not a hotel nor B&B type operation where you can arrive or depart any time you wish-  we must follow very strict check-in/out times.  Our Lighthouse is actually our private home that we  offered to the public for your enjoyment through our Overnight Keepers Educational Program.  The program was developed to encourage guests to experience the life of our brave lighthouse keepers who lived in and maintained the Light from 1881 through 1963.  As our overnight "Honorary Light Keepers," you will gain the knowledge and one-of-kind experience of living in a historic 140 year-old working Lighthouse!

Q: Are we allowed to check-in/check-out at times other than the 5pm and 12 noon established times?

A:. Due to the operational logistics of the lighthouse, we strongly ask our Keepers honor the established times, however, with advanced request, we are willing to accommodate changes due to schedules for flight times, travel delays and family emergencies.

Q:  Are bed linens included and is there a housekeeping/cleaning fee?
As part of your volunteer Light Keeper duties, we ask that you assist in bringing the lighthouse back to the same cleaned condition you found it upon check-in.  This simply includes, washing your dishes, stripping and remaking your bed and general cleaning as to return the Light to its original condition. We supply your bed linens, blankets, hand towels, cleaning supplies, etc.
 If you are NOT of the "domestic engineering" sort, and prefer to pay for the housekeeping, you can opt to purchase the $75 cleaning fee during the reservation/booking process.  However, we so wish our Keepers volunteer to bring the Light back to the original clean condition and save the fee. (Use it towards your food & beverages!)
*** Due to the Covid-19, we are striving to keep the Light as clean and sanitized as possible.  If you feel you'd prefer to bring your own linens, pillows, or kitchenware we are fine with those precautions.


Q: How much electricity does the lighthouse have, and can we charge our cell phones/tablets?
A: The lighthouse is completely "OFF the GRID" - with no outside electricity, running water, wi-fi, cable, etc. We are strictly powered by a bank of solar panels and heavy-duty batteries. We have a large inverter that converts the battery power into normal 110V electricity. There is normally enough power to power our lights, fridge, TV and charge cell phones - we can also power portable CPAP machines.  We strictly ask for your cooperation in conserving the electricity and water during your stay. 
(There is not enough power to operate high wattage items such as hair dryers, fans, flat irons or extended use of the microwave.)

Q: Is food service available and if not, what kitchen items are available for cooking?
A: Your stay is totally BYFB- "Bring Your Food and Beverages."
Most guests bring food that can be grilled on our outdoor gas grill (propane included) or cooked/warmed on our 4 burner gas stove & oven.  The kitchen is also equipped with a small, dorm-sized refrigerator, microwave,  K-Cup coffee maker, an extremely popular stove-top coffee percolator, gas stove & oven, and free bottled drinking water.  We also provide plates, mugs, glasses, wine glasses, cookware, steak knives, eating & cooking utensils, and various spices/seasonings.  We also offer free K-cups, sweeteners and ground coffee, and provide paper goods like paper plates, paper towels, napkins, toilet tissue, etc.
*Food option: Fall River features several excellent restaurants to order take-out foods and bring out to the Light instead of cooking.  The Cove Restaurant, Tipsy Toboggan, Pier 52 & Sagres restaurants as well as pizza chains are within 5 minutes of the Marina.  No... unfortunately they do not offer delivery service out to the Lighthouse- LOL!

Q: Is there fresh drinking water?
Being offshore and totally off the grid, we of course have no city water or septic service.  However, we do offer fresh clean spring water from our sink via a battery operated pump system for washing, cooking, doing dishes, etc. We also include plenty of fresh bottled water for drinking. 
Sadly, since we do not have city water service out to the Light, so we do not have a shower available.  There are hot showers available at the Marina's clubhouse if desired. (May-Oct. only)

Q: Are other people allowed to visit the lighthouse during our stay?
 Due to liability reasons, Keepers are not allowed to invite anyone on the lighthouse at anytime during their stay.  However, for milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries, etc. and only by ADVANCED REQUEST,  up to 10 guests will be allowed to join you for your special occasion at an additional fee.***  We will provide free boat service for your guests at check-in and one return trip back to marina no later than 9 PM. (one round trip)
***Additional charge of $30. per invited guest will apply and all guests are required to sign a waiver of liability.

Q: Does the lighthouse still have a working beacon and foghorn?
 The lighthouse is still a fully active USCG Aid to Navigation. The US Coast Guard operates our modern LED optic in the lantern room that automatically flashes every 2.5 seconds from dusk to dawn. In 2013, the foghorn was permanently removed.
*Please be aware, our lighthouse stands proudly as a U.S. COAST GUARD AID TO NAVIGATION protecting the waters of beautiful Mount Hope Bay and as such, the Coast Guard has right of access to the lighthouse at any time during an emergency.

Q: Is there WiFi or Cable TV?
 The lighthouse is purposely not equipped with WiFi or cable TV. The idea is to "UNPLUG" from the rest of the world and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Light. There is a 32" LCD TV w/DVD player with plenty of DVDs to choose from, as well as local network TV stations via HD antenna.  However we much prefer our guests relax in peace and solitude during their stay, away from the hustle & bustle of daily electronic life!
(There is excellent cell phone servicel in case you need to stay in touch with home or if there is an emergency.)

Q: In case of an emergency, who do we call?
A: If there is a medical emergency, use your cell phone to dial 911 (the lighthouse has excellent cell coverage). Fall River has top-notch  police, rescue and fire officers through their Harbormaster. Also, call Kevin, your Lighthouse Keeper. If you witness a boat emergency on the nearby waters, also call 911 who will alert the Coast Guard.

Q: How long does it take to get out to the Lighthouse?
The Lighthouse is located only 1,500 feet offshore. We launch our complimentary boat service from the Borden Light Marina, 1 Ferry Street Fall River, MA via our 20 ft. boat, and the ride only takes 2-3 minutes. (weather-permitting)
Please be aware, all Keepers must climb the vertical steel-rung ladder to access the Lighthouse. (see picture below left)

Q: Can we swim or fish off the lighthouse?
Swimming and fishing are not allowed.  The light is located at the mouth of the Taunton River flowing into Mount Hope Bay. It's not uncommon for the currents at the lighthouse to exceed 7-10-kts. making it extremely dangerous to swim.  Also, there are large rocks around the base of the lighthouse as well as boat traffic through the channel. Fishing is not allowed for safety and sanitary reasons.

Q: Can we bring alcoholic beverages for our stay?
A: Yes, guests are welcome to bring and enjoy alcoholic beverages.
We request that no one smokes on the Lighthouse property due to fire logistics and historic preservation, as well the comfort of future guests.

Q: Are we allowed to take pictures of the inside and access the lantern room?
A: Our guests are welcome to take as many photos as they would like. Guests are also welcome to access the lantern room where the active light is located. (Sunsets and views are amazing from the lantern room)

Q: Are we allowed to take our boat to the lighthouse?
A: Boats are not allowed to be tied off at the lighthouse or anchored nearby during your stay. The lighthouse is located in a navigable channel and overnight anchoring is not allowed. If you prefer to arrive for your stay by your own boat, transient boat slips are available for rent at the Borden Light Marina- 508-678-7547.  (must reserve slips in advance)

Q: Does the lighthouse float or sway?
A: The lighthouse rests firmly and permanently upon the bottom of the bay. It does not "rock" or "sway"around with the waves, like a dock or a boat.               It is as solid as being on land. Yay!

Q: What kind of bags should we use and can we bring a small cooler?
A: You're more than welcome to bring a small cooler. You must bring your own ice if desired. We do not advise using the traditional, hard sided cooler with side handles.  Soft-sided coolers are best- as we will need to carry it up the red ladder you see pictured bottom left .
For clothes, back packs, beach style bags with long handles and small overnight bags work best.  Multiple smaller bags are preferred over fewer heavier bags.  Saves our backs carrying them up the ladder!


Q: Is the power plant behind the lighthouse finally gone?
A: The Brayton Point Power Plant, once seen off the west side of the Light,  was decommissioned in May 2017. The plant was coal fired and the cooling towers were added in 2010 to eliminate hot water from entering the bay and damaging the ecosystem.  We are pleased to report the decommissioned power plant and towers were  imploded and removed in 2019. 

Q:  Is the Lighthouse really haunted?
A: After decades of rumor, we have had several professional mediums and ghost hunters visit the lighthouse and we are happy to report the presence of two extremely friendly spirits.  The experts have labeled our spirits as "benign," meaning they do not scare, haunt, spook or show themselves.  We have had a few reports where guests have heard music, footsteps or laughter, but unfortunately, this is extremely rare. Many of our guests hope to experience some presence during their stay, but sadly, 99.9% do not.  Our main spirit is that of our former Light Keeper Captain John H. Paul, (1912-1927) and the experts claim he remains there with us to serve as our "protector" - keeping our guests and Lighthouse safe from any harm.   Our other spirit is that of a 9 yr. old girl named Lucy, who tragically drowned when her family's row boat capsized near the Light in 1929. Our brave Keeper Covo rescued her from the waters, but was not able to revive her. It is said she remains as a helper and thank you to Keeper Covo for trying to save her life.
The experts have unanimously agreed they've sensed a warm aura of welcome & peace upon entering the Light.  
We graciously thank you John Paul & Lucy for watching over us!

    Email us below with questions only...
    if you'd like to make a reservation, please click on the
    "RESERVATIONS" button on top any page. 

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PictureAccessing the lighthouse requires climbing this steel rung ladder. The picture represents the ladder at low tide. Depending on tide, it can range from 3-8 rungs.



       




*** ATTENTION***
The only access onto our Lighthouse is by climbing this vertical steel runged ladder shown to the left. 
Depending on the tide, the climb could be only 3-4 rungs or up to 7-8 rungs (at low tide.) 
All Keepers must be physically agile to climb this ladder for entry and exit
from the lighthouse.


THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SUPPORTING OUR PRESERVATION EFFORTS TO KEEP "THE LIGHT" SHINING FOR ALL TO EXPERIENCE!
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