Nantucket Yacht Charter Guide
Experience a quintessential yachting haven with a Nantucket yacht charter. Sail the coastline where charming villages meet stretches of pristine beach and vibrant harborside scenes.
Just off the southern coast of Cape Cod, you can find Nantucket, an iconic New England yacht charter destination. Long celebrated as the world’s whaling capital, this yachting hub is rooted in yachting heritage from classic regattas to where superyachts now gather, especially at the famous Nantucket Boat Basin. The historic downtown is characterized by charming cobblestone streets where chic boutiques and galleries are dotted between waterfront bars and restaurants. Nantucket truly finds the sweet spot between refinement and its laid-back atmosphere for its visitors. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the coastline’s various hiking and cycling paths, tee off at prestigious golf clubs, explore windswept dunes, and relax on over 80 miles of beaches. While in Nantucket, be sure to indulge in the local culinary scene, visit iconic lighthouses, and soak up the New England beauty from the deck while including nearby yachting playgrounds such as Martha’s Vineyard and Newport on your itinerary.
Best Time To Visit: The summer season typically runs from June to September, with warm, sunny days. However, September and October also offer a particularly special experience with a temperate climate and fewer crowds.
Key Cruising Areas: Include Nantucket on a wider New England itinerary, with spots such as Newport, the Elizabethan islands, and Martha’s Vineyard.
Don’t Miss: Take a walk along the short out-and-back Bluff trail near ‘Sconset, which provides panoramic cliff views and a chance to admire the classic Nantucket cottages.
Best Spots for Wining and Dining: Nantucket has plenty of options for waterfront dining. For a unique feet-in-the-sand experience, secure a table at Galley Beach, once a clam shack; the fine dining spot boasts a wine cellar of over 5000 bottles. Don’t miss the legendary Chicken Box and Cisco Brewers for island-style vibes, live music, and drinks.
Best Local Dish: A selection of signature New England seafood dishes are available on most menus here. Be sure to enjoy the raw bar, featuring a variety of local Nantucket shellfish, at Cru.
Local Culture: As an 18th-century whaling port, pay a visit to the Nantucket Whaling Museum, where you can learn the island’s history. Fast-forward to today, and there are plenty of festivals, including the Nantucket Film Festival, well worth adding to the itinerary.
Best Beach: Nantucket offers a vast array of beaches to hop between, each suitable for various activities. Surfside Beach, toward the south of the island, is popular for catching a break, while the family-friendly Jetties Beach is perfect for calm waters.
IYC recommends: Time your yacht charter for the 4 July and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere in the Boat Basin, various holiday activities and parades, as well as the iconic fireworks over the harbor.