http://www.boat-ed.com/nh/nh_internet.htm
Good ideas on the boating classes! Also you said Hampton NH. It is mandatory in NH as of Jan 1 2007 to have the boating license.
I agree you should go with someone who knows a harbor. Hampton has lots of rocks and you have to snake your way out. (dont cut the last marker near low tide)
If Hampton is near you, Rye is also a very nice ramp to get straight out to the Isle of Shoals.
Additional things a boat owner needs:
VHF (number 1)
tools
duck tape/electrical tape/wire/nuts bolts
first aid kit
charts (Paper pref laminated)
GPS/fish finder (but know how to use a compass)
sun block (always forget that at home)
dry/warm clothing (always nice at the dock but cooler out on the water)
spare light bulbs (if out at night or chance of fog)
flares
dock lines
fenders (aka bumpers)
AND deep pockets becuase once you start boat fishing, it's totaly addicting and worth every penney.
Most important thing is respect the ocean. If it looks bad, get off the water.
Bad ass Boston Whalers don't sink, but they flip, and the water is cold.