7 Ways to Explore New England by Boat
New England is a boater’s dream, offering an array of scenic coastlines, historic harbors, quaint islands, and unique waterborne experiences. Whether you are sailing, powerboating, or kayaking, there are plenty of ways to explore this rich and diverse region by water. From the rugged coasts of Maine to the calm waters of Cape Cod, here are seven exciting ways to discover New England by boat.
1. Cruise the Maine Coastline
- Overview: Maine’s coastline stretches for more than 3,000 miles, offering a mix of rocky cliffs, fishing villages, and secluded islands. One popular boating destination is Casco Bay, located near Portland. The bay is dotted with picturesque islands like Peaks Island, Chebeague Island, and Great Diamond Island, each with its own charm.
- How to explore: Charter a sailboat or take a day tour with a local company. SailMaine offers a variety of sailing options in Portland.
- Boat Type: Sailing yachts (e.g., Beneteau Oceanis 30.1, $160,000) or motorboats (e.g., Boston Whaler 270 Dauntless, $150,000).
- Price: Sailing charters start around $300 per day for a smaller boat, and tours with local guides range from $50-$100 per person.
2. Sail the Newport, Rhode Island Harbors
- Overview: Newport is known as the sailing capital of the world and is home to the famous Newport Yacht Club and historic mansions lining the coast. The calm waters of Narragansett Bay make it ideal for sailing enthusiasts.
- How to explore: Opt for a sunset cruise on a classic schooner like The Adirondack II or rent a smaller sailboat for a self-guided adventure.
- Boat Type: Schooners (e.g., Friendship Sloop, around $125,000), luxury yachts (e.g., Jeanneau 349, around $190,000).
- Price: Day rentals of smaller sailboats can start at $200 per day, while organized tours like a sunset sail cost about $40-$60 per person.
- Overview: The Mystic River offers a relaxing and historic boating experience. Famous for the Mystic Seaport Museum, this area allows visitors to sail along a river steeped in maritime history.
- How to explore: Take a guided river tour or rent a small motorboat to explore the riverbanks and nearby Fishers Island Sound.
- Boat Type: Smaller motorboats like a Ranger Tug R-23 ($150,000) or kayaks for a more leisurely paddle.
- Price: Motorboat rentals cost $300 per day, while kayak rentals are typically $25-$50 per day.
4. Island Hop in Cape Cod
- Overview: Cape Cod offers excellent opportunities for boaters to explore various islands such as Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. The waters here are calm and ideal for recreational boating.
- How to explore: Rent a boat or hop on a ferry from Hyannis to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket. Both islands feature charming towns, beaches, and restaurants.
- Boat Type: Powerboats such as the Grady-White 251 Coastal Explorer ($140,000) or larger ferry services.
- Price: Renting a powerboat starts around $400-$500 per day, while ferry tickets cost about $20-$40 per person for a round trip.
5. Kayak the Lakes Region of New Hampshire
- Overview: New Hampshire’s Lakes Region includes Lake Winnipesaukee, a favorite for boaters. Surrounded by mountains, the lake is dotted with over 250 islands and offers stunning scenery and quiet coves.
- How to explore: Kayak along the shores for a peaceful, close-to-nature experience or rent a pontoon boat to explore the lake at your own pace.
- Boat Type: Kayaks ($300-$1,000 for purchase) or pontoons like the Sun Tracker Party Barge 22 ($35,000).
- Price: Kayak rentals cost $20-$40 per day, while pontoon rentals range from $300-$500 per day.
6. Charter a Lobster Boat in Maine
- Overview: Experience a true slice of Maine culture by hopping aboard a working lobster boat. This unique boating adventure allows visitors to learn about Maine’s lobster industry while enjoying scenic views of the coastline.
- How to explore: Several companies in Maine offer lobster boat tours, where you can pull lobster traps, learn about local wildlife, and taste fresh lobster.
- Boat Type: Lobster boats like the Duffy 35 ($350,000) are commonly used.
- Price: Tours typically cost $50-$75 per person, depending on the length and features of the trip.
7. Discover the Thimble Islands in Connecticut
- Overview: The Thimble Islands, located off the coast of Branford, Connecticut, are a collection of small, rocky islands perfect for exploration by boat. Many of the islands are privately owned, but some are accessible for picnicking and birdwatching.
- How to explore: Take a Thimble Islands Cruise, a small boat tour that weaves between these islands, providing historical insights and great views.
- Boat Type: Smaller tour boats, or for private exploration, a Robalo R222 Center Console ($60,000).
- Price: Tours typically cost $20-$30 per person for an hour-long cruise.
Final Thoughts
Exploring New England by boat is a remarkable way to experience the region’s history, scenery, and maritime culture. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous sail along Maine’s rugged coast or a peaceful kayak trip in New Hampshire’s lakes, there are countless ways to enjoy this boating paradise. While some experiences like chartering a sailboat or renting a powerboat may be costly, affordable alternatives like guided tours and kayak rentals offer great options for every budget. Whatever your preference, boating in New England promises to deliver unforgettable memories.
This blog article provides an overview of boating destinations, boat types, and estimated prices for renting or owning various vessels, helping potential adventurers plan their next nautical journey.
Happy Boating!
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Read Jake Owen: If I Could Be on a Boat with Anyone, It Would Be … until we meet in the next article.