In the northeastern corner of the United States lies New England, a beautiful region with a rich maritime history and a coastline perfect for luxury yacht charters. This area includes six states: Rhode Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, providing a compact and diverse cruising experience for visitors.
New England is a fantastic sailing destination, with Newport prominently hosting the Americas Cup sailing event. This Rhode Island town is known for its colonial architecture, scenic cliff walks, and vibrant jazz scene, making it an excellent start for yacht charters. From Newport, one can explore grand summer homes like The Breakers and The Elms, offering a vivid journey through 250 years of American history, architecture, and landscaping.
A short cruise southeast of Newport brings you to Block Island, which offers an ideal island experience with ocean-view dining, boutique-lined streets, and pristine white sand beaches. Block Island is also a fishing haven, offering abundant opportunities for both experienced and novice anglers. Many yachts come equipped with modern fishing gear, and the experienced crew will guide you to the best fishing spots and even prepare your catch for dinner. For those who prefer dining out, the island boasts excellent seafood restaurants such as The Atlantic, Ballard’s resort, and Beached.
Chartering a private yacht offers the freedom to create a personalized itinerary, avoiding the constraints of ferry schedules and crowded group trips. A professional yacht charter broker can help design a bespoke vacation, while the yacht’s local crew can suggest hidden gems and seasonal highlights along the way.
Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts, known for its association with political elites like the Kennedys, Clintons, and Obamas, offers vast estates and scenic escapes for everyone. Its pristine beaches, rolling farmland, and charming towns like Oak Bluffs and Edgartown make it a serene retreat. Cruising around this island by yacht provides a fantastic way to explore its coastline, enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, and relax on deck while the private chef prepares meals to your preferences.
Nantucket Island, located just 26 miles from the mainland, offers a world of natural beauty and calm waters. It’s perfect for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding. Most yachts are stocked with a variety of water toys, allowing guests to fully enjoy the activities at their own pace. The crew can anchor in peaceful coves, prepare water toys, and take guests ashore for dinner at delightful seafood restaurants such as Cru Oyster Bar or The Galley Beach, known for its beachside dining experience. After a day of adventures, the crew will welcome you back onboard with a nightcap before you retire to your luxury cabin.
Cape Cod’s iconic peninsula offers charming views of historical lighthouses and fantastic whale watching due to the nearby Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. This relaxed region is known for good food, beautiful sandy beaches, and family-friendly activities. It also offers cultural experiences with 83 museums and theaters, as well as 42 premier golf courses. Your crew can arrange visits and tee times, ensuring seamless transitions back to your luxury yacht.
For a longer cruise, Boston Harbour provides shopping and historical sites like Rowe’s Wharf and the Boston Tea Party Museum. Continuing up to Maine, you’ll find breathtaking forests along 400km of coastline. Activities such as hiking in Acadia National Park or deep-sea fishing add to the experience. Fresh seafood, including lobster, can be sourced directly from local fishing boats, promising meals as fresh as they come.
New England is celebrated for its seafood, specifically its lobster. Enjoy it steamed with butter or in a lobster roll. The region’s oysters, clams, scallops, cod, haddock, and halibut also contribute to its rich culinary scene, reflecting its maritime heritage. However, onboard chefs can cater to any preference or dietary need, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
New England’s accessible coastline can be explored in a week but offers enough for extended charters. The primary charter season runs from May to October, with mid-October presenting the spectacular fall foliage.
As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over New England’s waters, a private yacht charter in this stunning region promises an unmatched, unforgettable experience.