Boston's beautiful location on the water makes it an ideal place to go on a day or weekend boating trip. There are many fantastic sailing and boating destinations close to the city that will still feel like a getaway. Here are our six favorite places to go on a boat trip near Boston. You'll enjoy it so much that you might consider creating a vacation around it!
Go Boating At These 6 Places Near Boston
1. Nahant, Massachusetts
Nahant, a town of 3,000 in Essex County, is the smallest municipality by area in the state. However, this quaint town is the perfect launching-off point for exploring Nahant Bay and learning about the area’s rich marine history. There are several marinas which make boat docking convenient. On land, enjoy relaxing on Nahant Beach, or take a short drive to Boston explore museums, aquariums, and significant historical landmarks.
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2. Quincy, Massachusetts
Only 11 miles from Boston, Quincy’s location is convenient for reaching the city or escaping to the bay. Both Quincy Bay and Hingham Bay are close by, with the Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park quickly accessible. Peddocks Island, one of the most diverse islands in the harbor, features quaint cottages, historic buildings, and hiking trails. Dock your boat at one of the 300 slips at Bay Pointe Marina, which also has waterfront dining and amenities to give you an easy boating experience.
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3. Marblehead, Massachusetts
This naturally beautiful destination, with rugged coastline and historic lighthouse, is only nine nautical miles north of Boston Harbor. The Marblehead Harbor is also considered the birthplace of the U.S. Navy! Contact the Harbormaster Department to plan where to dock your boat, which controls the 2,000 moorings located in its waters. On land, treat yourself to an elegant meal at 5 Corners Kitchen or Shubie’s Gourmet Market and Restaurant.
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4. Nantucket, Massachusetts
What Nantucket loses in proximity to Boston, it makes up in idyllic New England charm and high-quality boating. The Nantucket Boat Basin is a full-service marina located in the historic Nantucket Harbor and is easily accessible to some of the town’s best attractions. On land, visitors can learn about the area’s long history at the Whaling Museum or any of the famous lighthouses. Several beautiful beaches, such as Madaket Beach and Jetties Beach, are perfect for relaxing and water play with your family.
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5. Newport, Rhode Island
Dubbed the “sailing capital of the world,” Newport is the home to many international sailing events such as America’s Cup, the Volvo Ocean Race, Olympic trials, and a number of prestigious regattas. Dock your boat at the Newport Harbor Hotel and Marina, the Newport Shipyard & Marina, or several others. The town of Newport is perfect for exploring on foot or via bike, with many scenic beaches, historic buildings, and exciting mansions. The 3-and-a-half-mile Cliff Walk is an enchanting New England activity, allowing visitors to see the best that Newport has to offer.
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6. Newburyport, Massachusetts
The Newburyport Harbor Marina is your gateway to a charming coastal town that shares its name. Boat out to the Merrimack River to take in gorgeous views of historic buildings and serene landscapes. On land, be sure to visit the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge or Plum Island, which are both nationally protected. Newburyport is also a great destination for dolphin and whale watching, either from your own boat or through a guided tour.
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This article was written by Marissa Fackler.