IYC Inspiration: A Seaside Fourth Of July Celebration Through New England
Crafting unforgettable itineraries for our yacht charter guests is what IYC's expert consultants do best. In our new 'IYC Inspiration' series we take you behind the scenes of charters, spotlighting the best destinations and those truly extraordinary vacations.
When a group of friends in their thirties approached us last year looking to spend their Fourth of July holiday with each other, requesting a mix of relaxation and exploration, we knew just the place. America's most popular yachting spot, New England, with its quintessential coastal towns, laid-back luxury, perfect summer weather, and vibrant celebrations, ticked every box. The friends spent days enjoying each other's company, far from the stresses of everyday life, while enjoying the ease of island hopping. Here is the story of their week-long luxury yacht charter in New England:
A Newport Welcome
Stepping aboard in Newport, Rhode Island, the group's journey began in this celebrated yachting hub known for its rich maritime history. With glasses of champagne in hand and the bustling New England summer energy, the tone was set perfectly.
Deliberately unhurried, they settled onto the yacht and then enjoyed a sunset tender cruise through Newport Harbour, passing iconic sailing yachts and historic landmarks like the New York Yacht Club and Fort Adam.
The first night was the perfect Newport welcome as the sun dipped behind the Jamestown Bridge, leaving behind dramatic pink and orange shades. Back onboard, the night unfolded to the sounds of a local singer-songwriter playing acoustic renditions of the group's favorite throwbacks during dinner.
Playtime And Beach Barbecues
The first morning started with some of the group waking early to enjoy the sea breeze and sunrise yoga on the deck. When everyone surfaced, a pancake brunch was savored alongside ocean views as the yacht cruised towards the Elizabethan Islands. Anchored off the coast of Martha's Vineyard with the sun shining, it was the perfect opportunity to delve into the yacht's toybox. Full of energy from a relaxing start, the Jet Skis and Seabobs were taken for a spin.
While the group explored, the crew transformed a secluded beach on Chappaquiddick Island into the lunchtime dining spot - a barbecue with grilled oysters, lobster rolls, and ice-cold local beers. Returning to the yacht for spa treatments and sunset cocktails in the early evening was the ultimate relaxation to end a fun-filled day.
Discovering Sights Ashore
While the yacht remained at anchor, today was all about exploring Martha's Vineyard ashore. The captain arranged a private tour where the group discovered the distinct charm of the island's three main towns. In Edgartown, they browsed boutiques and galleries, and in Oak Bluffs, they explored the candy-colored gingerbread houses and the oldest carousel in the US.
The final town, Vineyard Haven, offered ice cream parlous and an impromptu picnic spot. Back onboard, sundowners were sipped before the chef served a New England-themed tasting menu. The wine continued to flow into the evening, and an unexpected onboard magician joined, delivering a private performance that entertained the friends long into the evening.
Fourth Of July, The Nantucket Way
From idyllic anchorages to sought-after marinas, the yacht then cruised onto Nantucket. Docked right in the heart of the charming town, at Nantucket Boat Basin, lunch was arranged at Cru. Known for its lobster rolls and champagne, it was an ideal harbourside lunch and warm-up for the Fourth of July celebrations. The group rented some bikes for the rest of the afternoon and rode to the quaint village of 'Sconset.
After watching some local Fourth of July parades, they returned to the yacht for the evening celebrations to begin. The yacht's famous 'Cape Codder' cocktails were served, and a local oyster shucker came onboard. They gave a masterclass and served up a delicious raw bar, perfectly paired with Nantucket's fireworks display. Later, the celebrations continued at the legendary Chicken Box - one of Nantucket's liveliest spots.
Island Vibes And Beachfront Dining
After a slow morning of beach wandering and more watersports, the afternoon took them to Cisco Brewers, a fun hangout blending a winery, brewery, and distillery into one. Enjoying the afternoon here, there was live music and the perfect chilled vibes to round off the holiday celebrations.
Back onboard, some of the friends splashed back into the water for a sunset swim while others relaxed before a special night ahead. The captain secured them a sought-after reservation at the Galley Beach ashore. Once a clam shack, the fine dining restaurant is a unique feet-in-the-sand experience and boasts a wine cellar of over 5000 bottles.
Relaxing Mornings To Sunset Celebrations
With one last morning in Nantucket, after breakfast, the friends wandered the cobblestone streets where they did some last-minute boutique shopping. It was also market day, so they picked up some small-batch jams and local honey to take back home with them. Others opted for a quick stop at the Nantucket Whaling Museum before regrouping back onboard to enjoy the cruise back to Newport.
Leaving Nantucket Boat Basin behind, the friends enjoyed some downtime relaxing, sunbathing, and reading before arriving in Newport. That night, the crew hosted a White Party onboard after dinner, with a DJ and themed cocktails.
Clifftop Views And History Unveiled
On their final full day, the captain organized a morning hike along Newport's famous Cliff Walk, with incredible panoramic ocean views on one side and the Gilded Age mansions on the other.
After the walk, they returned to the yacht for a well-deserved brunch with a round of mimosas. The friends returned ashore to enjoy a private guided tour of The Breakers, the famed Vanderbilt estate, where they learned about the stories of summers gone by. They then hopped into a vintage convertible and explored the island from coast to coast, winding through more historical landmarks and iconic lighthouses.
For a late lunch, a table was secured at Castle Hill Inn - one of the most sought-after spots in Newport - to enjoy world-class dining washed down with chilled rose. Back onboard for the final New England sunset, the group was treated to a final round of Cape Codders by the crew and then headed out to enjoy an evening, first with dinner at the open-air lounge waterfront hotspot of Forty 1 North, and then headed downtown for live music and dancing.
Until Next Time, New England
On their last morning, they enjoyed an early breakfast before they hopped off to enjoy a last-minute wander and shop in Newport, enjoying the boutiques and galleries.
Saying goodbye to the crew, the private transfer whisked them back to the airport; along with luggage, they took endless memories of New England back home and a Fourth of July week they wouldn’t forget.
If you are looking for the ultimate Fourth of July celebrations this year, a luxury yacht charter in New England delivers, from sandbar barbecues, exploring historical landmarks to watersports and iconic dining, contact our expert consultants today to learn more about which yachts are available to charter in New England this summer.