At Moran Yacht & Ship, we’re often talking about exotic, far-off destinations such as the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. But your dream yacht charter might be closer to home than you think, as one yachting location that often gets overlooked is New England.
New England is rich in yachting history, comprising an enviable 6,000 miles of stunning Atlantic coastline. Feel ocean breezes from Kennebunkport to the far reaches of Bar Harbor as summertime ships travel past myriad historic and legendary locales.
Many charter yachts spend the winter in the Caribbean or Bahamas. They reposition to New England for the summer charter season, visiting Newport, Cape Cod, Nantucket, Maine, Martha’s Vineyard, Rhode Island, and other locations. And so New England becomes alive in the late summer and fall with luxury yachting vacation options. If you’re wondering how to charter a yacht in New England between July and October, we can help you find the right vessel.
The scenic beauty and varied landscapes of New England make it such an exceptional yachting destination that we couldn’t do it justice with a single blog post. So for the next two weeks, we’ll be singing the praises of New England and suggesting a few vessels we think can help make a New England charter experience picture perfect.
Diverse Coastline
Thanks to dramatic cliffs and headlands, as well as rocky, rugged shores such as those found in Maine, New England offers stunning views and a true sense of adventure. The rockiness creates a striking contrast with the ocean, providing awe-inspiring vistas that are perfect for exploration by yacht.
These rocky areas are interspersed with secluded coves and inlets, making them ideal for anchoring and enjoying the serene surroundings. New England’s coastline also features numerous sandy beaches, such as those in Cape Cod and Rhode Island, which are perfect for relaxing, swimming, and beachcombing. These beaches often have gentle waves and shallow waters, making them ideal for family-friendly activities and safe anchoring spots.
Charming Islands and Harbors
The true beauty of New England lies in its rustic and memorable towns and harbors, all easily accessible when yachting in the area.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
The island boasts charming towns like Edgartown and Oak Bluffs, each with unique character and historical architecture. Martha’s Vineyard offers upscale dining, boutique shopping, and beautiful beaches, making it perfect for a luxurious retreat. The island’s rolling hills, lighthouses, and scenic cliffs provide stunning views and great opportunities for exploration.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Known for its well-preserved historic buildings and cobblestone streets, Nantucket has a quaint, old-world charm. The island features beautiful beaches, scenic bike paths, and wildlife-rich areas. Nantucket offers a variety of cultural activities, including museums, art galleries, and festivals, for those who crave a few hours off-yacht.
Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island is known for its unspoiled landscapes, including 17 miles of pristine beaches and scenic bluffs. The island offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and bird watching, and with its relaxed vibe and limited commercial development, Block Island is perfect for a tranquil getaway.
Cuttyhunk Island, Massachusetts
Part of the Elizabeth Islands, Cuttyhunk offers a quiet, secluded retreat with a small population and minimal tourist activity. The island is popular for fishing and boating, providing a peaceful and natural setting. Cuttyhunk’s natural beauty and simple lifestyle attract those looking for a quiet and unspoiled destination.
Diverse Weather Patterns are perfect for Sailing
New England’s coastal waters benefit from consistent and predictable wind patterns, especially during the summer months. The steady breezes provide excellent conditions for sailing, whether you’re cruising leisurely or engaging in more competitive sailing.
The region offers a range of wind speeds, catering to both novice sailors and experienced yachtsmen. This variability allows for a broad spectrum of sailing activities, from gentle day sails to thrilling regattas.
The moderate summer temperatures in New England, typically ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (18-30°C), make for ideal sailing conditions for vessels of all sizes.
Beautifully Navigable Waters
From the open Atlantic waters to the calm, sheltered bays, New England offers a diverse sailing terrain. This variety allows sailors to choose their preferred sailing environment, whether it’s the challenge of open water or the tranquility of protected coves.
The numerous bays, harbors, and inlets along the New England coast provide sheltered waters that are perfect for anchoring and overnight stays. These protected areas offer safe havens from the open sea’s rougher conditions, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience.
The well-charted waters and clearly marked navigational aids make it easy for yachters to navigate the coast safely. The presence of historic lighthouses also aids in navigation and adds to the region’s charm.
Explore New England Aboard UTOPIA IV
If you want to truly wow your guests and give them a week they will never forget along the Atlantic’s summer waterways, consider a New England yacht charter aboard the incredible 206′ (63m) UTOPIA IV.
In 2019, UTOPIVA IV was the winner of the World Superyachts Award “2019 Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts – 40m and above” and the winner of the International Superyacht Society Awards of “2019 Best Power 40m – 65m.”
New England’s appeal as a yachting destination lies in its stunning natural landscapes, rich maritime history, world-class sailing events, charming islands, exquisite dining, cultural attractions, ideal sailing conditions, well-equipped marinas, and a welcoming yachting community.
For true yachting enthusiasts, the yacht brokers at Moran Yacht & Ship can help you choose the perfect vessel for your needs. With a yacht like UTOPIA IV at your disposal, you can explore the warm summer waterways of New England in style and comfort.