New England: Experience The Coastline Like A Local
Stretching down part of America's east coast is New England, one of the most quintessential regions for sailing and summer cruising. As the landing site of the Pilgrims' Mayflower, the birthplace of the America's Cup, and overflowing with second homes from the Gilded Age, it isn't hard to see why yachting - and the coastline - is so significant here.
There are plenty of iconic destinations to include on a New England itinerary spanning from Maine to Newport. While a popular destination, there are still endless things to see and do far from the summer crowds. Charming villages with bustling art scenes, outdoor pursuits to enjoy, and stunning scenery while island-hopping, you can still find off-the-beaten-track wonders. Here, we have put together a guide to New England's best-kept secrets:
Hoist The Sails
Newport, Rhode Island, is the heart of New England's sailing scene. While luxury superyacht charters claim the spotlight, locals still love hopping onboard a classic wooden yacht, which has been lovingly restored and is cruising the same waters where America's Cup first took place.Â
For a unique experience, charter a vintage yacht for an afternoon sail, or time your trip here with the Vineyard Cup - a sailing regatta in Martha's Vineyard that is one of the friendliest competitions.Â
Get Cultural And Creative
New England has plenty of quaint villages, with many of them full of creativity. Wander through the local galleries in Provincetown and Nantucket, or even book a private tour of exclusive art collections and studies.Â
The region's cultural calendar is bustling all summer, with festivals celebrating everything from jazz to independent films. This year's Newport Jazz Festival will take place from 1 to 3 August - a must-visit for locals and visitors since 1954.Â
Tuck Into Coastal Flavors
New England is renowned for its local culinary specialties, with various ways you can indulge in them. Away from the crowded hotspots, onboard a luxury yacht charter, you can have an expert oyster shucker join you for a private oyster shucking session.
Or, ashore, visit local spots in Maine, such as The Clam Shack or the award-winning Waterside Market in Martha's Vineyard, to tuck into a legendary lobster roll. In Maine - the lobster capital of the world - you can book a private lobster boat tour where you will learn all about bait traps and the lobster industry.
Cruise Uncrowded Spots
While the iconic destinations are idyllic, the lesser-known islands and coves are best for a more authentic New England experience. Island-hop through the Elizabeth Islands, a pristine island chain between Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard, where you will come across quiet beaches and charming fishing villages.
The outermost island, Cuttyhunk, is perfect for deserted anchorages and beautiful scenery. With over 200 islands to choose from, head to Penobscot Bay in Maine; the islands are full of wildlife, hidden spots, and towns to explore as you cruise.
Escape The Crowds
Summer in New England can get busy, but there are still many peaceful spots if you know where to go. Joining the locals, hiking, and cycling are ideal ways to explore ashore, with stunning landscapes and wildlife to spot. Enjoy a privately guided cycling tour through Martha's Vineyard's back roads or Nantucket's quieter lanes leading to the village of Sconset.
The Cliff Walk in Newport is well-known and a favorite for hikers, so it is best experienced early morning or sunset. In Maine, Mount Desert Island is home to Acadia National Park, where locals enjoy the trails and views of Frenchman Bay.
Best Of The Beaches
New England's beaches are famously beautiful, with endless options; some of our favorites included Long Beach on Deer Isle or Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod. To witness dramatic scenery, Mohegan Bluffs Beach on Block Island offers towering cliffs and clear waters.Â
For family vacations, you can enjoy the calm waters of Children's Beach on Nantucket, and for surfers, be sure to visit Second Beach in Newport to catch a wave or two.Â
New England's coastline offers various ways to experience it like a local. You can easily escape the summer crowds and enjoy the beauty, flavors, and maritime heritage of this stretch of the iconic East Coast of America. Contact our expert consultants to plan your private New England charter experience.
More From The Blog
'Indian Summer,' also known as a 'second summer,' is a well-known American phrase referring to the unseasonably warm weather during the late fall, stretching into early November. A typical occurrence in New England, this commonly characterized weather is ideal for extending the opportunities for a yacht charter here.
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.
Hugging the shoreline of America’s northeast Atlantic coast, New England is the epitome of yachting. Its rugged coastline stretches from Maine to Newport and is full of iconic American destinations to cruise throughout the summer. The landing site of Pilgrim’s Mayflower and the birthplace of the America’s Cup, New England, is steeped in cultural and historical yachting significance. There is plenty to do here on a yacht charter, from wandering charming villages, exploring the art scene, outdoor pursuits, enjoying the beaches, or simply savoring a lobster roll or two.
Tuck Into Coastal Flavors Photo By The Clam Shack