Category: Destinations

Destinations: Looking for information for your next cruising destinations? Whether you’re planning a sail in the Caribbean or summering in Newport, our destinations resources will help you plan the perfect excursion. Our expansive cache of destination information includes Monthly regional reports filled with seasonal tips and travel itineraries,  Local knowledge on great boating locales, Cruiser resources—complete with photos, Insider tips, marina information and more!

The Cayman Islands

Bank on the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands offer SCUBA diving, sportfishing, sailing, and more.

The banks off the Cayman Islands, located in the Western Caribbean and part of the Greater Antilles, are a big draw. There’s the Cayman Bank 12 miles to the west of Grand Cayman, plus Pickle Bank, Lawfords Banks, the 60 Mile Bank, the 110 Mile Bank, and more. Rather than financiers who gravitate to the monetary institutions for which the Cayman Islands are globally famous, these offshore banks beckon to sportfishermen. 

Just ask Frank Thompson, president of the Cayman Islands Angling Club and the territory’s International Game Fishing Association representative. Thompson finds there’s nothing better than trolling for blue marlin aboard his 33-foot Blackfin, whether it’s near shore or around these fish-filled banks. Sportfishing is a family affair for Thompson. His 15-year-old daughter released her first blue marlin last year, and his 11-year-old son did the same in August. Beyond sportfishing, sailors, snorkelers, and SCUBA divers, as well as those who simply love fine dining and accommodations on the water, will find a place in the sun in the Cayman Islands.

Island Trio

At 76 square miles, Grand Cayman is the largest of the three islands that make up this British Overseas Territory. It’s definitely the island to base a vacation with plenty to see and do in the modern capital city of George Town, an alphabet of high-end hotels—Hilton, Kimpton, Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, Westin, and Wyndham—and two major marinas, The Barcadere and Safehaven. By sea, Grand Cayman is an 830-nautical mile trip from Miami and entails swinging west around Cuba on the way south. Shorter is by air, with one-and-a-half-hour flights daily to the Owen Roberts International Airport in George Town. Jamaica is the closest island to the southeast, while Cozumel, Mexico, is the nearest land to the west. 

The Cayman Islands aren’t a territory and are very different from the Virgins or Grenadines that are line of sight or even stepping stones navigation-wise. Little Cayman and Cayman Brac lie 60 and 90 nautical miles east, respectively, from Grand Cayman. True to the name, Little Cayman is the smallest at 10 miles long with about 160 residents, while Cayman Brac is 12 miles long with a robust population of about 2,000 “Brackers.” 

What these two islands lack in amenities and facilities, such as marinas, compared to Grand Cayman, they more than make up for in natural attributes and beauty. Little Cayman is a diver’s wonderland with swim-throughs, drop-offs, and sea creatures galore at the Bloody Bay Marine Park. Cayman Brac is ideal for reef, wreck, and wall diving, plus hiking and spelunking ashore. The Cayman Brac Museum at Stake Bay showcases nautical exhibits on turtling and shipbuilding. Grand Cayman’s sister islands are accessible only by air or boat.

“We’re off the main Caribbean cruising areas,” says Jonathan Cuff, general manager at Harbour House Marina in George Town, which is more a marine facility with an 8,000-square-foot chandlery, yard with 70- and 150-ton marine lifts, and dealers for brands like Sea Ray, Release, and Boston Whaler, than a traditional dock-and-slip marina. “Most people with crews tend to go to the Eastern Caribbean for island hopping. We are very much an island alone. It’s even a slog almost directly upwind in the tradewinds to get from Grand Cayman to Little Cayman or Cayman Brac. What we do get are serious long-range cruisers who leave from Florida, for example, and stop here to get provisions or carry out repairs before heading south to Guatemala or the Bay of Islands in Honduras or even transiting the Panama Canal. That said, Grand Cayman is a wonderful place to visit with restaurants, resorts, and plenty of water sports to enjoy.”

Sea and Do

Ninety percent of boating activities in Grand Cayman take place in the North Sound, situated on the north side of the island. Roughly six-by-six nautical miles in size and relatively shallow, this sheltered sound offers great snorkeling near the reefs and some 60 distinct dive sites full of fish, corals, and sponges. There are several nautical attractions in North Sound and to the west, such as gorgeous Seven Mile Beach. 

“Stingray City is the most popular and well-known attraction on Grand Cayman where
you can swim among the stingrays. Starfish Point is where you can wade among the starfish and is close to Rum Point, which is also a popular site to dock your boat and hang out among the palm trees and relax with a cocktail,” says Rob Grisdale, manager at the George Town Yacht Club, not an actual club, but a casual dining waterfront restaurant associated with The Barcadere Marina and open to the public. “SCUBA diving is very popular on Grand Cayman with many sites to discover such as the Kittiwake wreck. Deep sea fishing is another attraction, and if you don’t have your own boat, there are many private charters available for all these attractions.” 

Sportfishing for All

The 83-slip Barcadere Marina accommodates yachts up to 150 feet in length with an 8-foot draft, and includes slip-side 120/208-volt power and water plus free Wi-Fi, washrooms, and security on property. There’s dockside fuel, and the adjacent Scotts Marine is a full-service marine center with a 110-ton marine Travelift. Scotts is an authorized dealer for Mercury Marine, Volvo Penta, Yamaha, and Yanmar as well as Tiara, Pursuit, Cobalt, Starcraft, and Bayliner powerboats. 

The marina is host to two annual sportfishing tournaments run by the Cayman Islands Angling Club: the BK Big Fish Tournament in early April and the Cayman Islands International Fishing Tournament in late April and early May. The latter, which attracted nearly 40 boats this year, is a qualifier for the Offshore World Championships held annually in Quepos, Costa Rica. The daily weigh-in for each of these tournaments is in front of the George Town Yacht Club.

“You can catch blue marlin here year-round,” says Thompson. “However, the spring and early summer months are when they are most prevalent. October through March are better for wahoo and yellowfin tuna. The largest yellowfin, one hundred-plus pounders, show up around November, while the dolphin are heavier in the spring.” 

Come Sail Away

Sailors will find half-day, full-day, and sunset cruises on both 20-foot-plus center consoles and powercats, and larger group-type sailing catamarans, with excursions most frequently in the North Sound area. 

Sailboat racing got its start nearly a century ago when 20 schooners and up to 300 catboats competed for trophies and bragging rights. Today, the Cayman Islands Sailing Club follows the tradition of an active regatta calendar with monthly racing for open dinghies (Optis, Picos, and Hobies), one-design J/22s, and cruiser-class boats.

“Our largest and most anticipated event is the annual Round the Island Easter Regatta, which is open to all boats, members and non-members alike,” explains Denise Couch, the club’s administrator. “The Easter Regatta commences in the North Sound and finishes on the first day at Sunset House (around the island’s West End peninsula). Then, it carries on in the Back to the Sound Race. Visiting sailors are welcome to join in any of our racing. We have boats for rent which may be used in the racing. Visitors are also welcome to our clubhouse for drinks, a game of pool, and any of our social events.”

The Cayman Island Sailing Club is also the Member National Authority for sailing. The territory launched its Cayman Island Olympic Committee in 1973, and since 1976, has sent sailors to six Olympic Games. 

Dock and Dine

On land, Grand Cayman boasts all the lux leisure pursuits of a tropical island destination. Spend a day at Camana Bay’s Town Centre, north of George Town off Seven Mile Beach, for duty-free shopping for designer brands like Gucci, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Prada. Pizza, pasta, seafood, and steaks are here, too, as well as a juice bar, bakery, and Starbucks. 

Dock to the west side of North Sound at Morgan’s Harbour and dine at the Australian-Caribbean-themed Tukka West restaurant or Calypso Grill on Morgan’s Lane with its Crispy Mango Shrimp and Sticky Toffee Pudding. Or go for a Michelin-worthy experience at Blue by Eric Ripert, at the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. It’s a meal that may break the bank, but it’s worth it. After all, it’s the banks that make the Cayman Islands a mariner’s paradise. 

-by Carol Bareuther

Tips for Chartering a Yacht

Tips for a Successful Charter

Dos, don’ts, and simple steps to a great boat vacation

There’s no vacation like a boat vacation, so if you want to spread your wings and explore new territory, consider chartering. Powercats have made great inroads into crewed and bareboat charter in the past few years, so there are lots of options these days both in terms of the vessel and the destination. Let’s look to help you pull off a perfect power charter in enticing ports around the world. 

First, we’ll discuss some crewed yachts, but mostly bareboat charters where you take the wheel and the responsibility. Second, you can charter independent monohull boats for fishing or cruising just about anywhere via a peer-to-peer service like Boatsetter, but we’re going to focus on large charter companies that offer multiple models and destinations. Almost exclusively, these organizations work with powercats for their room, stability, shallow draft, and fuel economy. 

Start by asking yourself some questions.

Crewed or Bareboat Chartering?

Decide what kind of vacation you want. If navigating, anchoring, cooking, and managing all systems aboard sounds like work when you’d rather relax, go with a crewed charter. Hire a captain who will relieve you of the burden of command like running the boat, or hire a team that includes a chef and have a posh experience with nothing to do but enjoy. 

Alternately, you can charter a bareboat where, for better or worse, you’ll oversee everything. A bareboat is less expensive than a crewed charter, but you’ll need some basic boating experience and since most powerboats in charter are catamarans, you should know how to drive one so you can dock. 

If you’re not sure which to choose, go with a hybrid approach. The chartering company will provide a captain for a day or two to show you the ropes and then you take it from there. This is easier in small cruising grounds where the captain can disembark and get back to base easily—like the British Virgin Islands. 

Where Do I Want to Go?

Most power options can be found in the Caribbean and some parts of Europe. If this is your first charter, pick a location like the BVIs to start—the navigation is easy, the winds are steady, and there’s a lot to do ashore (restaurants, bars, shopping).

Chartering Itinerary planning is critical. First, you need to choose a place that will work for your crew. Are you looking for the tropical bar scene, history, shopping, seclusion? Does your crowd want to snorkel in the Exumas in the Bahamas or walk the city of Dubrovnik in Croatia? Some areas are more challenging for a skipper than others. The tiny Sea of Abaco can be crisscrossed in two days, but island hopping in the Greek Cyclades means long distances, lots of Med mooring, and possibly choppy seas. Kids, older folks, and the those prone to seasickness will appreciate a charter with small hops, shorter airplane rides to get to the destination, and fewer COVID restrictions.

No matter where you go, don’t overplan the itinerary. On a crewed charter, the captain will most likely already have a route, but you can ask to offer input. If you want to go diving on the wreck of RMS Rhone in the BVIs, for example, make sure to request extra time in the area. 

If you’re creating the float plan yourself, remember that less is more. A packed itinerary isn’t a vacation, it’s a chore, so don’t try to exceed 20-30 miles of distance or 2-3 stops per day. Stay flexible and take each day as it comes which makes room for spontaneity that can be the highlight of the trip.

Most charter companies will post typical itineraries online, and you can add your own flair. Do the loop backward or offset it by a day because every other charter boat will be headed to the same destination on the same day. By backtracking or skipping one place, you may be able to get away from the crowds and have a better experience.

When Do I Want to Go?

Shoulder season offers more boat options at lower prices, smaller crowds in restaurants and anchorages, and an easier pace to enjoy the destination and its people. Shoulder season in the Caribbean is late May to July and early November. August to October are no-go times because it’s hurricane season. Shoulder season in Europe is May and October, and the no-go time is August when everyone is on vacation, harbors are packed, and the locals get understandably surly. 

Ask the charter company about shoulder season specials like 10 days for the price of seven. When you’re not chartering during the peak, you also have a better chance of being upgraded to a bigger or newer boat. 

Want more info on chartering? Check out our Beginners Guide to Chartering a Yacht

What Should I Expect on the First Day?

The first day of a charter can be frustrating with lots of bureaucratic details and waiting. Crewed charters will usually give you a time to board, but you still must check in with the office, complete last-minute paperwork, and meet with the captain to set expectations (both yours and theirs). 

When bareboating, you’ll need to provide passport and arrival/departure information and complete any health visas, insurance waivers, and COVID testing. You’ll also have to provide your boating resume (some companies have an online form to complete), and give the crew a list with the names, ages, and passport information of all guests.

On a bareboat, you must attend the chart and technical briefings although some charter companies offer them pre-recorded with online videos that make things somewhat faster. Even if you try to learn everything via video, make a list of questions to ask in person at the base before untying the dock lines. 

During the chart briefing, you’ll find out about local tourist highlights, how and where to catch (or reserve) moorings, how much they cost, and if you pay with credit or cash. You need to learn about shoal areas and where to get weather information. Listen for special warnings about unmarked hazards, underwater cables that could snag an anchor, temporary closures, and the location of fuel docks. Base personnel also often have the best tips on where to go, what to avoid, and where to eat. 

The technical briefing teaches you about the boat. Even after watching a video, lean on the base staff to show you all the systems and how they work because as captain, you’ll be responsible for managing water, power, and waste aboard for the duration of your vacation. Make sure you understand how to start the generator, monitor batteries, change water tanks via the manifolds, run the dinghy, and operate the electronics. Use your phone to record the information of a live briefing or bring a friend for a second set of ears because the details come fast. 

Examples of where you should focus include: 1) Checking that the chartplotter information is in English and in units you’re comfortable with like feet. 2) Asking about any offset in the depth reading so you know whether the instruments calculate from the waterline or from below the keel. 3) Turning on the VHF and making a call to another boat. 4) Learning the size of fuel and water tanks and knowing where the fills are. 

In the galley, ask personnel to show you how to start the stove, and see if there is a breaker on the panel as well as a solenoid switch. Lift your propane tank to see how full it is, and make sure you have tools to switch propane bottles if needed. Is the barbecue gas or charcoal and do the fridges work?

How Do I Provision?

On a crewed charter, the chef will contact you ahead of time with questions about preferences and allergies. Don’t ignore this request for information. Also, stipulate how many meals you’d like to eat ashore to help them plan.

Provisioning a bareboat charter means you’ll be stocking the boat. Most charter companies will provide a list from which to choose and will deliver the food on the first day or you can shop on your own for better prices and more options. Beware, however, that stocking a week’s worth of groceries isn’t something that one person can manage, and it takes a lot of time. 

If you’re working with the charter company, choose “partial provisioning” that allows you the flexibility to eat off the boat at restaurants. A rule of thumb is to provision 3-4 dinners on the boat if you have people who like to cook. If the group is all about dining out, provision just breakfast and lunch groceries for the week. 

If you’ll be cruising in hot climates, provision about a gallon of bottled water per person per day. Most people don’t drink the boat water because they have no idea where it came from or how long it’s been in the tank. Choose one-gallon bottles that are easier to store and pour into individual reusable water bottles.

Always provision less than you think you’ll need because most boats come back with lots of food. Plan to eat on board on the last night to use up what’s left. 

Don’t Forget the Details

If you’re new to chartering or your own boat is smaller or less complex, don’t opt for a giant powercat that may be intimidating to drive and have loads of advanced systems. If you’ll have kids aboard, plan for their safety and entertainment. Bring games and rent water toys like kayaks, SUPs, and snorkel gear on-site. Take a day before or after the charter to explore beyond the boat.  

Whether you’re seeking treasures on the islands of ancient Greece or tucking into a lobster dinner in the BVIs, a boat vacation opens new worlds that you just can’t experience when you stay in hotels. Best of all, once you get this power chartering thing down, you’ll have lots of options without ever needing to learn to sail. Enjoy! 

Read More:
Beginners Guide to Chartering a Yacht

-by Zuzana Prochazka

Visit Hutchinson Island

Hideaway on Hutchinson Island

Just far enough away to escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets is the secret gem of Florida’s Treasure Coast—a 23-mile stretch along the Atlantic Ocean from Fort Pierce to Stuart known as Hutchinson Island. This serene barrier island attracts visitors in search of beautiful weather, an abundance of outdoor activities, engaging experiences, and marvelous waterfront dining.

Fun in the Sun

Spend a day (or more) at the Marriott Hutchinson Island Beach Resort, Golf & Marina (marriott.com), where each room boasts a private balcony with views overlooking the island. The resort features beach and water sports, an 18-hole golf course, 13 tennis courts, a fitness center, and outdoor pools. Its 75-slip private marina offers full amenities, including fuel, water, electric, and free Wi-Fi. Boaters are welcome to use the resort’s amenities while docked. Members of Freedom Boat Club can also access boats from this marina.

Book a guided fishing charter from the resort’s marina to get to where the fish are biting. Many different fish species provide nonstop action for anglers of all skill levels. 

There are also plenty of places to rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, such as Motorized Kayak Adventures (motorizedkayakadventures.com) which offers tours through the mangrove canopy forests of the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) and Lisa’s Kayaks (lisaskayaks.com) where knowledgeable guides navigate cruises on the IRL that are perfect for bird sightings.

Scenic Beaches

Grab the sunscreen and head for any of the dozens of free public beaches on the island. The most popular is family friendly Bathtub Reef Beach—its clear water makes it perfect for snorkeling and SCUBA diving. Saddle up at Frederick Douglass Memorial Park, the only beach in southeast Florida that allows horseback riding along the shoreline. Show your skin in all its glory at Blind Creek Beach Park, the island’s only clothing-optional beach. But don’t worry, there are warning signs posted just in case the kids are in tow.

Engaging Experiences

While you may be tempted to just relax on the beach all day, there are a few don’t-miss attractions around the island. Vintage car buffs will enjoy the Elliott Museum (hsmc-fl.com/elliott-museum), where a three-tiered robotic racking system displays 55 antique automobiles dating to 1903. Users can select one vehicle via a computer interface, and it will be placed on a rotating platform for a closer look. 

Divers will want to check out the House of Refuge Museum at Gilbert’s Bar (hsmc-fl.com/house-of-refuge). Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is the oldest structure in Martin County and the last remaining of the 10 that were built. The Houses of Refuge were run by the U.S. Lifesaving Service and designated as shelters for shipwrecked sailors along Florida’s Atlantic coast including those on the Georges Valentine, whose wreckage rests just 100 yards offshore.

Nature-lovers can get a close-up view of the sea life swimming around the 750,000-gallon game fish lagoon at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center (floridaocean.org/coastal-center). This 57-acre marine life nature center provides hands-on educational programs about Florida’s coastal ecosystem. Fun fact: From April to September, Hutchinson Island becomes one of the most important nesting areas for loggerhead turtles in the world. 

Delightful Dining

Known for its “world-famous fried shrimp,” Chuck’s Seafood (chucks-seafood.com) is one of the area’s longest-standing restaurants. The casual waterfront eatery offers spectacular views of the Fort Pierce Inlet. For something a bit more upscale, dine oceanside at Kyle G’s Prime Seafood & Steaks (kylegseafood.com). Don’t let the name fool you. The award-winning restaurant also serves breakfast and brunch. Looking for waterfront dining with a full bar and live music? Stop by Manatee Island Bar and Grill (manateeislandbarandgrill.com). Be sure to take home a souvenir T-shirt!

With all there is to do, a visit to Hutchinson Island is definitely one to add to the bucket list.

5 Best Waterfront Restaurants – Treasure Coast

Florida’s Treasure Coast, comprising Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties, has some of the best waterfront restaurants on the state’s East Coast. Feel the tropical vibe in seaside settings that offer everything from sensational seafood and steaks to classic burgers and creative cocktails. Indoors or outdoors, day or night, if you want an outstanding meal with a spectacular ocean view, here are five of the best waterfront Treasure Coast restaurants to find it.

Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House

Built by Golden Age starlet Frances Langford in the 1960s, the Polynesian-themed restaurant in Jensen Beach was then-known as the Outrigger Restaurant. In the 1990s, the establishment was renamed the Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House. Situated along the Indian River, the restaurant offers panoramic waterfront views from the Stuart Causeway up to the Jensen Beach Causeway Bridge. Dock and dine daily for lunch and dinner or Sunday brunch. Be sure to try the signature dish: Dolphin a la Dolphin, fresh dolphin sauteed in herbs and Parmesan topped with a lemon butter caper sauce and served with grilled asparagus. The family friendly spot has a kids’ menu as well as live music and trivia nights. Book a private event for up to 100 guests in the historic Langford Marina Room. dolphinbar.com

Sailor’s Return

Sailor’s Return in Stuart is the perfect waterfront restaurant to enjoy an alfresco dining experience. Nestled on Sunset Bay Harbour and Marina, the restaurant with two bars and a nautical atmosphere offers spectacular sunset views, live music, and a wide selection of seafood, steaks, and other American fare that will delight any palette. With 930 feet of courtesy docking up front, boaters are very much welcomed. There are daily drink specials and Happy Hour at both bars. In the mood for a specialty cocktail? Try the Sailor Jon: 21 Seeds Cucumber, Jalapeño Tequila, muddled cucumber, and fresh jalapeño, finished with agave and sour mix. Or for something sweeter, Sailor Jon’s Sister: 21 Seeds Valencia Orange Tequila, muddled pineapple, and fresh jalapeño, finished with agave and sour mix. Both are served on the rocks. thesailorsreturn.com

Twisted Tuna

The Twisted Tuna is the largest family owned and operated waterfront restaurant in Martin County. The spacious two-story restaurant offers casual indoor dining, covered outdoor dining, and three full bars. Enjoy lunch and dinner daily from a slightly “Twisted” menu (18 pages!) featuring the freshest seafood dishes, traditional Italian favorites, pizza, and the finest sushi and raw bar selections. Landlubbers are not forgotten—chicken, steak, and burgers are all available. Daily specials include Taco Tuesday (20 percent off tacos and $5 margaritas) and Buck a Shuck Thursday ($1 oysters), and they host a Bottomless Bloody Mary Brunch on Sundays. Additionally, there is a Happy Hour Bar Bites menu, a kids’ menu, and a late-night menu. Delicious specialty drinks, nightly live music, and a pet-friendly patio add to the upbeat ambience. thetwistedtuna.com

Blackfins

Grab a seat on the riverfront deck at Blackfins at Capt Hirams Resort for delectable delights served along Sebastian’s best views of the river. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Blackfins has something on the menu for everyone, even gluten-free items. The breakfast omelets and biscuits and gravy are enough to satisfy your appetite, but don’t miss island-style favorites for lunch or dinner like fish tacos, conch fritters, crab cakes, and the signature dish, Dirty Oysters, featuring fresh-shucked oysters served with caviar, sour cream, onions, and hot sauce. Wash it all down with a Hurricane Hiram, a mix of rum, amaretto, sour mix, pineapple juice, grenadine, passionfruit syrup, and a 151 floater. You choose between a Cat 3, 4, or 5, but as the menu says, it’s “not for the faint of heart.” hirams.com

Pirate’s Loft Restaurant

Located at the Pirate’s Cove Resort & Marina in Port Salerno, Pirate’s Loft Restaurant is open daily for casual or gourmet dining with gorgeous waterfront views. The extensive menu offers everything from flavorful salads to outstanding seafood, which the chef hand-picks and prepares with a Caribbean flair. Other tempting lunch and dinner choices include pasta, chicken, steak, burgers, and more. Dine under the covered deck, inside one of the two dining rooms, or in the bar at the Pirate’s Loft Lounge. Happy Hour is daily from 2-6 PM. Enjoy live music by various local musicians on weekends. piratescoveresort.com

-by Bonnie Schultz

Best Waterfront Dining in Fort Lauderdale

Dock ’n Dine

Take the boat to enjoy these restaurants ON THE ICW from Pompano Beach to Hollywood, Florida.

Cruising to a waterfront restaurant to admire the scenic beauty while dining is one of the pleasures of having a boat. Along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), there are many restaurants that have waterfront access. Here are 13 great places in the Fort Lauderdale area where you can tie up to the dock and step ashore to enjoy a meal and the ambience of the water.

15th Street Fisheries

You will not find better views in South Florida than you will at 15th Street Fisheries located in the shadows of the 17th Street Causeway at Port Everglades. The place has a casual vibe and serves up a sea-inspired menu that includes Bahamian-style conch fritters, Florida Fried Shrimp Tacos, and Joe’s Sizzler Skillet with fresh fish, scallops, and more. Adjacent to the Lauderdale Marina, there are fuel and supplies, if needed, and bait to feed the tarpon hanging under the docks. Check out the webcam for a live view. 15streetfisheries.com

Billy’s Stone Crab

A beautiful interior, great views, and fine dining greet every guest at Billy’s. On the Intracoastal in Hollywood, this seafood restaurant has dockside seating protected by awnings or at the covered glider tables at the water’s edge. All-you-can-eat stone crabs, specialty seafood entrées, and cocktails of your choice fill the menu. Billy’s Seafood Market offers fresh fish to take home or have shipped elsewhere. Take a virtual tour of the restaurant on its website. crabs.com

Blue Moon Fish Co.

Enjoy your dining experience inside or out on the dock at this Lauderdale-by-the-Sea stop. There’s more than 200 feet of dock space, and it’s recommended to let the hostess know the size of your vessel when making reservations. You can’t go there and not try the Blue Crab and Corn Roasted Grouper over mushroom and asparagus risotto. This is the dish you should aim for, but with a raw bar, seafood gumbo, lobster, lamb, and filet mignon, it’s a tough choice. bluemoonfishco.com

Boathouse at the Riverside

Along the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale is the Boathouse at the Riverside restaurant, a favorite spot for family and friends. The lush, tropical patio welcomes boaters to dine outside or head inside where the tropical fish tank adds to the ambience. From brunch to lunch or happy hour to dinner, the menu satisfies all moods. Boathouse at the Riverside doesn’t take reservations, but with special “docktails” and “Mussel Mania,” there’s plenty offerings to enjoy while you wait for a table. boathouseriverside.com

Boatyard

A nautical-chic vibe is strong with this one, but the laid-back atmosphere makes guests feel comfortable and unpretentious. Located in the first waterway arm north of Port Everglades past the 17th Street Causeway (around the Hilton), spacious indoor, outdoor, and dockside seating, two bars, and a local fare make this a favorite spot. Be sure to try the shareable Charred Octopus with kale, garbanzo, and chorizo vinaigrette. There’s also a special happy hour menu, so grab some friends to enjoy the waterfront. boatyard.restaurant

Bokampers Sports Bar and Grill

Next to the Oakland Park Boulevard bridge is the waterfront place for watching sports—all sports—not to mention great food, spirits, and an open-air atmosphere. More than 100 HD plasma TVs surround both the outside and inside dining areas that includes three full bars, an extensive menu featuring wings, salads, sushi, burgers, and seafood, along with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Dockhands are there to help—when the Miami Dolphins play on a Sunday, boats are tied three deep. It’s a lot of fun. bokampers.com

Coconuts/G&B Oyster Bar

For a fun, upscale, but casual vibe, check out Coconuts just south of the Las Olas Boulevard bridge at the end of the Hall of Fame Marina docks. You will find a menu filled with delicious options, such as Crab Cake Salad and the Coconut Shrimp Platter as well as delights from the G&B Oyster Bar. There are only a few dock spaces and with seating on a first-come, first-serve basis, check in as you arrive. It’s a chill hangout that is only a block from the beach. coconutsfortlauderdale.com

The Diplomat Beach Resort

The Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood reopened on June 1st after closing due to the pandemic in March 2020. The large beachfront hotel is accessible from the Diplomat Landing Marina that can accommodate yachts of most lengths for the day to enjoy the resort’s amenities, including dining. Playa is a beachfront Latino restaurant and bar featuring an extensive rum and tequila selection. Diplomat Prime is a luxury boutique steakhouse serving dry-aged steaks and local, in-season seafood. The Hotel Bar is the hub of the resort with indoor and outdoor living room settings and Atlantic Ocean views. diplomatresort.com

Kaluz

If you’re looking for a more elegant dock-and-dine experience, Kaluz is right up your alley. With the waterfront restaurant’s impressive menu, including Shrimp Cargot (with Havarti cheese), hardwood-grilled Kaluz Chilean Seabass, prime rib, and so much more, you are guaranteed a magical experience. Smart casual attire is required, reservations are accepted for indoor dining only, and dockhands are there to help tie up. From experience, the food in this upscale establishment is awesome. kaluzrestaurant.com 

Las Olas Marina 

There is no restaurant on-site at the Las Olas Marina (Suntex Marinas has elaborate plans for future development), but one block away is the “strip,” a plethora of bars and restaurants that line Fort Lauderdale Beach. Between 9AM and 4PM, you can tie-up at the floating docks and pay a day fee. If the boat is there past 4PM, you’re paying the overnight rate. Reserve a space by calling (954) 828-7200. lasolasmarina.com

Pirate Republic Seafood 

If themed restaurants are your thing or you’re looking for an outside-of-the-box experience, this place is a must. Located on the south side of the New River just past the railroad bridge (headed up river), this popular pirate-themed restaurant doesn’t have your typical fish fillet menu. Its signature dishes unite a variety of seafood sure to exhilarate your senses, such as the Asopado de Mariscos made with fish, shrimp, calamari, clams, and mussels with a blend of tomatoes, red and yellow sweet bell peppers, oregano, cumin, coriander, and brandy served with rice. Wow! piraterepublicseafood.com

Sands Harbor Resort & Marina

The Sands Harbor Resort & Marina is a waterside resort on the Intracoastal in Pompano Beach. It’s only two blocks from the ocean, but with a pool and two restaurants, it’s easy to stay right there. The full-service marina can accommodate yachts to 120 feet in length. The Sands Harbor Bar & Grill offers casual American fare and a full bar poolside while the Rusty Hook Tavern has an upscale atmosphere offering local fresh fish, pasta, and steaks. Try the Cheetos-crusted Mahi or the Graham Cracker Calamari. sandsharbor.com

Shooters Waterfront

A lot has changed over the years at Shooters Waterfront, but one thing that remains the same is the fun. A local favorite, it’s a go-to for brunch, lunch, dinner, and dockside cocktails. The outdoor and dockside patio areas are decorated with palm trees, rattan-covered seating huts, and greenery for a garden feel. Live music, special events (such as the sushi roll class and Yoga & Yolks), happy hour, and a well-rounded wine list and menu make Shooters Waterfront a must stop along the Intracoastal. Dockhands are available, and the lengthy dock can fit about 10 boats. shooterswaterfront.com 

-by Max Francisco

Exploring Florida’s Treasure Coast

Treasure Hunt

Florida’s Treasure Coast is a hidden gem.

Tangerine and cotton candy-colored clouds billow along the horizon creating the perfect backdrop for this laid-back, picturesque Florida region. Tucked along the Atlantic Coast just north of Palm Beach, the Treasure Coast comprises Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties. This hidden gem is a wondrous destination filled with family friendly fun, unforgettable experiences, and more than 60 miles of beaches on which to surf, fish, or just relax.

The Treasure Coast got its name from the 1715 Spanish treasure fleet sunk by a hurricane while returning from the New World to Spain. The fleet’s gold, silver, and jewels were scattered over the seafloor, and though much of the booty has been recovered, snorkelers, divers, and other fortune-seekers continue to search the water for treasure today.

The coast is lined with sandbars and barrier islands that protect the numerous bays, rivers, and lagoons, such as the 156-mile-long Indian River Lagoon which contains five state parks, four federal wildlife refuges, and a national seashore. Lake Okeechobee, the largest freshwater lake in Florida, is connected to the lagoon by the Okeechobee Waterway and the St. Lucie River meeting in Sewall’s Point. 

“The Okeechobee Waterway is a cross-Florida navigable waterway connecting Florida’s Atlantic Coast to its Gulf Coast at Fort Myers,” says Ed Killer, outdoors writer for TCPalm.com. “There is a series of locks to carry boats through the waterway, the most dramatic of which is the St. Lucie Lock and Dam in central Martin County which is fourteen feet. Pass through the locks to enjoy a unique boating experience.”

Check out the Stuart Boat Show happening Jan 13-15th.

A Good Sport

Being on or near the water is a way of life on the Treasure Coast. From boating and water sports to diving and fishing, there is something for everyone.

“Boating is truly in the DNA of this coastal community and has been for decades,” says Charlotte Bireley, director of tourism and marketing for Visit St. Lucie. “Fort Pierce is also home to boat manufacturers that churn out top-tier boats of every size, shape, and model. World-class boat makers, including Pursuit, Maverick Boat Group, Bluewater Sportfishing, and Twin Vee PowerCats, make their home in Fort Pierce, which means boating enthusiasts have the industry’s best at their fingertips.”

Enjoy stand-up paddleboarding? Tour operators from Zeke’s Surf and Paddle Sports (zekessurfandpaddle.com) in Stuart and Paddle the Pointe (paddlethepointe.com) in Jupiter offer guided experiences throughout the area’s waterways. There are plenty of places to rent kayaks and canoes for a self-guided excursion, and for those who snorkel or dive, a range of dive shops lead excursions and offer classes for certifications, such as Dive Odyssea (diveodyssea.com) in Fort Pierce. 

Numerous charters specialize in offshore, inshore, saltwater, and freshwater fishing experiences. Spend a day on a guided fishing charter out of the Fort Pierce Inlet,
where many different fish species provide nonstop action for anglers of all skill levels. 

“The most popular fishing spot is the jetty rocks at Jetty Park,” says Bireley. “The jetty is located at Fort Pierce Inlet…. The rocks jut out into the ocean offering anglers many spots to cast a line.” Sebastian Inlet State Park, six miles north of Vero Beach, is also a premier saltwater fishing spot. Drop a line for redfish, flounder, snapper, grouper, and more. 

As a sportfishing paradise, Stuart has earned the title “Sailfish Capital of the World.” In fact, downtown Stuart boasts the iconic 19-foot bronze Stuart Sailfish statue that majestically leaps from a fountain. The eye-catching piece welcomes visitors to the city.

But that’s not all Stuart is known for. “If you haven’t yet caught a snook, there is no fight like it,” says Killer. “Stuart has five species of snook living in its waters, the only place in the world this can be said.”

What’s Up, Beaches?

Grab the sunscreen and get ready to lean your chair back into the cinnamon sand. With long stretches of pristine shoreline, the Treasure Coast has a vast array of beautiful beaches are never crowded. Enjoy some family fun at Bathtub Reef, Stuart, Hobe Sound, and Jensen beaches, all which are lifeguard-protected daily. Saddle up at Frederick Douglass Memorial Park in Fort Pierce, the only beach in southeast Florida that allows horseback riding along the shoreline. Soak in the sun at Fort Pierce’s Blind Creek Beach, recently designated “clothing optional.” Hang Ten at Wabasso Beach Park in Vero Beach, a popular surf spot with breaks to the right and left of the jetty.

“Don’t miss a day at Fort Pierce Inlet’s sandbar by Dynamite Pointe on an incoming tide. The crystal-clear waters from the Atlantic come flowing in giving boaters a feeling of being in the Caribbean,” says Bireley. “Visitors will find many boaters anchored to enjoy the tides, cold beverages, music, and a massive party on the sandbar—and it’s family friendly.” 

Nature Calling

A treasure trove of activities await outdoor enthusiasts. Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound bursts with wildlife in 13 natural habitats including sand pine, mangroves, and river swamps. Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, motor boating, biking, and various guided tours throughout the park. Blowing Rocks Preserve, also in Hobe Sound, is aptly named for the stunning spectacle that occurs at high tide: Saltwater shoots up through the gaps in the limestone, at times spouting 50 feet into the air. The beach dunes, mangrove swamps, and tropical hardwood hammocks along the rocky shoreline are definitely worth exploring. 

Farther south, check out the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, operated by the Loxahatchee River Historical Society. Climb all 105 steps to the top for spectacular views. You can also bike along the sandy road on the Historic Jungle Trail and stop at Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge in the Indian River Lagoon, home to hundreds of animal species, for some birdwatching or a photo op of nature at its finest. 

“Boaters should explore the islands speckled along the edges of the channel in the Indian River Lagoon/Intracoastal Waterway,” says Bireley. “Many islands have amenities such as picnic tables, grills, and even a few rope swings for the brave adventurers. Overnight campouts under the stars are popular on the islands.”

Dock and Dine

“The culinary scene along the Treasure Coast is growing more impressive every year,” says Ian Centrone, tourism program manager for the Martin County Office of Tourism and Marketing. From Stuart, home of the annual Stuart Boat Show in January, and Jensen Beach to Fort Pierce and Sebastian, there are numerous waterfront eateries where boaters can “dock and dine.” 

Some of the more popular options include Mulligan’s Beach House Bar & Grill in Jensen Beach, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner year-round, where the famous Beach House Bloody Mary is served next to incredible views of the Indian River (mulligansbeachhouse.com). The chef at Pirate’s Loft at the Pirate’s Cove Resort & Marina in Stuart hand-picks fresh seafood daily and then prepares it with Caribbean flair (piratescoveresort.com). Try Gator on the Edge, fried Florida gator tail bites served with spicy remoulade, at On the Edge Bar and Grill in Fort Pierce, an open-air, tiki-style restaurant with a full bar and live music daily (facebook.com/OnTheEdgeBarAndGrillFL). Or grab a seat on the riverfront deck at Blackfins at Capt Hirams Resort in Sebastian for island-style favorites like fish tacos, conch fritters, crab cakes, and its signature dish, Dirty Oysters (hirams.com).

The More You Know

TCPalm.com’s Ed Killer offers some additional insider tips for boaters on the Treasure Coast. “Follow the channel markers,” he says. “Stuart has lots of deep water, but around the (St. Lucie) inlet and Crossroads, where the St. Lucie River and Indian River Lagoon intersect, there are lots of shoals and shallow water.  

“Be especially careful after dark,” he adds. “Many of the channel markers in the Intracoastal Waterway and Okeechobee Waterway are not lit at night so use a Q-beam to light channel markers so as not to collide with them.”

In terms of other tips, Killer suggests checking official websites, such as Discover Martin (discovermartin.com), Visit St. Lucie (visitstlucie.com), and Visit Indian River (visitindianrivercounty.com), to stay well-informed. “Websites house tons of useful resources…sample itineraries based on various interests, special offers that are updated throughout the year, and so much more.” 

-by Bonnie Schultz

Discover Puerto Rico

Warm Up to Puerto Rico

The island is a U.S. territory and a gateway to the Caribbean.

It’s amazing how little most U.S. mainlanders really know about Puerto Rico. Sure, plenty have flown to the island or even taken cruise ships to San Juan, the capital of this United States territory, but I’m not convinced many could actually find it on a map, name an ethnic food they’ve tasted, or list a top five sampling of the island’s natural resource treasure troves.

“That may be true, but ask boaters who’ve visited here, and they’ll have answers,” laughs Carlos Ponce, assistant general manager at Safe Harbor Puerto Del Rey Marina. “Some will be simple but interesting physical facts, like Puerto Rico being one hundred miles long, sporting seven hundred miles of coastline, and hosting the only tropical rain forest in the United States. Others will be more revealing, such as comments on how welcomed they felt here, the amazing food they sampled, the sea life encountered, quiet coves discovered, or the welcoming attitude of our communities. It’s those latter thoughts that always interest me most.”

Bucket List Destination

Indeed, for serious boaters who love to travel, a little knowledge of this island seems like a great idea since it’s not only a destination, but the gateway to the Caribbean. Puerto Rico is a natural jumping-off point for boaters departing the U.S. mainland for the rich, blue waters surrounding such locations as the British Virgin Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, and even the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antillies like Antigua, St. Lucia, and Barbados. Here, you can spend a little down time, wait out a spate of windy weather, load up with provisions, and top off fuel tanks before heading off on an extended voyage. It’s also a logical hold over stop on your return trip. 

Still, Puerto Rico deserves to be recognized as a bucket list destination for its lush landscape of mountains, beautiful waterfalls, extensive park system, abundant beach access, delicious cuisine, distinctive music, and welcoming communities.

“There’s just so much here to see and experience, and coming by boat or chartering a vessel once you arrive is the best way to take it all in,” says Ponce. “Even better, since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, you’ll have no hassles with customs if arriving from another U.S. destination. Just be sure to have your driver’s license or photo identification handy, along with appropriate documentation, registration, and proof of insurance, if you come by private vessel. Boaters do have to check in with the Coast Guard upon arrival. After that, you are free to roam, sail, or motor about.”

San Juan

San Juan, of course, is the most well-known landing spot along the Puerto Rican coast. Home to the island’s largest airport and major travel hub, Luis Muñoz Marín International, you’ll find amazing nightlife and big city amenities ranging from world-class restaurants to megayacht marinas here. Isla Verde is the sweet spot with its dramatic high-rise hotel strip, beach bars, casinos, and busy seafront promenade.

From a beach perspective, three options provide fun for everyone. Surfers love Pine Grove, while Alambique is a great stretch on which to kick back and relax. For families, Balneario de Carolina has lifeguards and incorporates a waterpark for the kids.

Old San Juan, just to the northeast, is where history and architecture buffs will want to spend some time strolling the cobblestone streets. It’s home to the San Juan National Historic Site with colonial buildings dating back to the 16th century including the massive San Felipe del Morro and San Cristobal fortresses, plus the tomb of Spanish explorer and Puerto Rico’s first governor, Ponce de León, said to have searched for the Fountain of Youth. While he may not have found it, you wouldn’t guess that by the colorful homes here or the nightlife on Isla Verde. While taking in the sights, be sure to check out the Paseo de la Princesa bayside promenade.

Go Inland

You can’t beat the big city if you like to party. On the other hand, those who want to experience this island at a grassroots level with a slower pace, more personal interaction, and unlimited chances to discover the island’s homegrown flavor should really set out to explore less-traveled paths both along the coast and heading into the island’s interior.

“Exploring our suburban and rural areas is a lot of fun, and you’ll be able to figure things out with a little help from the locals,” says Ponce. “Most Puerto Ricans speak Spanish and English. We tend to be more engaging outside of the urban areas, and we’re proud of our heritage and culture. We love our lifestyle and natural resources, and we are happy to share them with the world. Many of the boaters who visit our marina, in fact, tell us they enjoy most the warmth of our communities. I think that’s our greatest resource.”

If experiencing Puerto Rico at this level floats your boat, there’s no better way to tackle the task than by water. If setting your own course and coming from the U.S. mainland, check in with your base marina for local suggestions on where to visit. Most boaters, however, arrive by plane and then rent catamarans, sailboats, or powerboats. For this, you’ll have little trouble finding options. 

Coastal Areas

Ponce recommends exploring the coastal areas around Lajas, Fajardo, Ponce, and Cabo Rojo to see Puerto Rico at its most relaxing and combining that with visits to some of the island’s interior parklands which feature hiking, nature viewing, waterfalls, and zip lines. Be certain, he says, to check out El Yunque tropical rain forest toward the island’s eastern end.

Local beaches also are tons of fun. Flamenco Beach in Culebra, for example, ranks consistently in the top 10 beaches worldwide. Crash Boat, Playa Sucia, and Balneario de Boquerón are terrific for sunning and swimming, too.

Then there’s Rincón on the west side of the island. It’s the surfing capital of Puerto Rico with waves that can exceed 20 feet. This is a small city that sees a big influx of surfers in season yet remains relatively low-key during the rest of the year. “It’s where I go to get away from all the hustle and bustle for a few days,” says Ponce.

I can see where he’s coming from. Just last year, my brother, Joe, invited my wife, Felicia, and me to share a weeklong rental with family in Puntas, Rincón. We were thrilled to be within walking distance of two quiet beaches, a small, laid-back stretch of road with several interesting shops, and a pleasant mix of restaurants/bars just minutes from our Airbnb rental home, Casa Dos Hermanas. Local amenities also included SCUBA and snorkeling operations, horseback riding, surfing, and fishing excursions.

Delicious Dishes

It was here that I fell in love with Puerto Rican food. Ola Sunset Cafe sits right on the water with plenty of outdoor dining available overlooking Isla de Desecheo. While enjoying meals of alcapurrias (ground beef-filled fried fritters made from a mixture of grated taro root and green bananas), along with shrimp, lobster, and mahi empanadas, plus ample quantities of wine and rum, we reveled in the sight of dolphin cruising just beyond the surf. Some days you can watch whales swimming here, too.

It was also at a restaurant in Rincón that I was offered the chance to sample mofongo, a Puerto Rican staple made of plantains mashed with salt, garlic, broth, crispy pork skin, and olive oil, then served with a variety of fillings and a topping of red shrimp sauce. Feigning fullness, I passed on that opportunity, but Ponce says I need to come back, give it a try, and then push further off the beaten track to uncover more uniquely Puerto Rican treats like corn or rice and beans ice cream.

It’s advice I’ll certainly consider next time around. 

-by Tom Schlichter

Crossing the Potomac River

Passage on the Potomac

Crossing the Potomac River from the Chesapeake Bay into Washington, D.C., is a rewarding voyage. 

It almost seems like the start of a bad joke: What do presidents and prehistoric sharks have in common? The answer is the Potomac River. With striking scenery, presidential landmarks, and yes, the opportunity to find prehistoric shark teeth, this passage from the Chesapeake Bay into Washington, D.C., is a worthwhile detour for those cruising the East Coast. 

Bordered by Maryland and Virginia, the Potomac can enter the Chesapeake with a bit of
attitude. As you turn into the river, be aware of wind and currents. If entering the river from the north, the Point Lookout Light will be to starboard. Built in 1830, this original structure warned the shipping community of nearby shoaling. Still an issue, give Point Lookout a wide berth as its shoal extends southeast. 

Just around eight nautical miles in is the entrance to the St. Mary’s River. Follow it another six nautical miles to the Horseshoe Bend anchorage which offers good holding and proximity to the St. Mary’s College dinghy dock, making it ideal for going ashore. St. Mary’s is a college town with walking trails and historical buildings. Stop at Farthing’s Ordinary and visit the living history museum. Horseshoe Bend consistently offers anchored vessels lovely sunsets as you go to bed dreaming of the next day’s adventures.

Shark Tooth Island 

Moving northwest again, you will pass one of the Potomac’s hidden treasures, Hollis Island. Located in Nomini Bay, tucked just out of the river, it is a small island that shows itself at low tide. Best suited for a day visit, with a southerly breeze it can be a relaxing overnight stop as well. Hollis Island is a private island, and a permit may be required for your visit. 

Locals call Hollis “Shark Tooth Island,” and for good reason. Visitors who scan the waterline are likely to find shiny, black, fossilized shark teeth of various shapes and sizes.

Two things to consider when wondering why the Potomac offers a wealth of fossilized shark teeth. First, sharks have multiple rows of numerous teeth which are embedded not in bone, but in their gums. This results in frequent loss and replacement of rows of teeth throughout their lifespan—teeth which eventually fall to the ocean floor. Second, there was a time when the entire Potomac region was underwater. When the waters receded, what was once an ocean floor became the fossil-laden cliffs bordering the river. The river’s ebb and flow erode the cliffs, releasing the fossils which eventually wash ashore.

There are other shark tooth-hunting grounds on the Potomac but being downstream from a particularly prolific cliff makes Hollis a shark tooth-finding mecca. 

George Washington’s Roots

Continuing your course upriver, don’t miss Westmoreland County’s Colonial Beach, the birthplace of George Washington. In 1656, Washington’s great-grandfather, John Washington, came to these shores when an English merchant ship he was on grounded. While waiting for ship repairs, he fell in love and married Anne Pope, establishing the legacy of the Washington name in the American colonies. 

After catching a slip at the Colonial Beach Yacht Center or The Boathouse Marina, the first order of business is getting a golf cart. Colonial Beach is a golf cart community and local companies offering hourly or daily rentals will drop them off at the marina. Visitors will find beach cottages, a beachfront boardwalk, and plenty of places for good food and live music. 

West front of the Mansion at Mount Vernon

After a day or two near the birthplace of our nation’s first president, it is only fitting to make your way further to his well-known homestead, Mount Vernon. There are a couple of anchorages from which to stage a day cruise to Mount Vernon. Fairview Beach anchorage is a bit exposed, but if the winds allow, it is a nice layover. On shore, Tim’s II at Fairview restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with scenic view of the Potomac. 

If winds have a south component, you may find a more hospitable haven in Wades Bay. This tree-lined cove is another shoreline known for abundant shark teeth fossils.

Slightly north of Wades, and worth a dinghy trip, is Mallows Bay. The remains of hundreds of vessels lie in its shallow waters. During WWI, Woodrow Wilson engaged shipbuilders to produce wooden steamships for use as naval transport vessels. These ships never saw wartime action as production delays and the emergence of steel-hulled ships quickly made them obsolete.

Eventually, most of the fleet was brought to Mallows to be scuttled. Today, more than a dozen of these ships can be seen half-sunk, decomposing in the shallow water and forming the base of a healthy ecosystem. Shrubbery, trees, birds, and fish are thriving in these hull-shaped habitats. 

After a restful night, follow the river less than 20 nautical miles until you see the green sloping lawn and red-roofed building of Mount Vernon. There are day anchorages nearby and a visitor dock for smaller boats or dinghies. Purchase tickets for a tour of the estate, or simply stroll the lovely property on your own.  

The National Harbor

As you continue up the Potomac, you will find two very different landing sites on opposite sides of the river. If you are drawn to the modern and trendy, then cast your bow to starboard and the National Harbor. You will be greeted by the sight of The Capital Wheel, a 180-foot-tall Ferris wheel overlooking the riverfront. The National Harbor is a secure facility offering easy access to shops and restaurants. It is home to the MGM National Harbor, a hotel with one of the largest casinos outside of Las Vegas. The Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, with its stunning glass-fronted atrium overlooking the river, is a short walk from the marina.

Filled with History

If its historic vibes you seek, continue under the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and veer to port to visit Old Town Alexandria. Be mindful of all no wake zones as you pass beyond the bridge. Proximity to town makes the Alexandria City Marina worth the three-foot tide variance on a fixed dock.

The cobblestone streets are lined with small eateries, shops, and historical markers. Located on the city’s waterfront is the must-visit Torpedo Factory Art Center. Once a naval munitions plant in WWII, today it houses three floors filled with diverse works of art, active studios, and archaeology exhibits that are free and open to the public. 

Upon leaving Alexandria, you will cruise past the Reagan National Airport. The airstrip is so close to the river, it feels as if the planes are about to land in the channel. The waterway leading to D.C. will split twice. While it may seem confusing, it is well-marked, and navigational aids are clear.

Follow the first split to starboard into the Washington/Anacostia Channel. When approaching the second split, head to port. You will know you are in the correct channel when you see the stately War College building looming to starboard and the grassy knoll of Hains Point to port.

Walk This Way

Just south of the National Mall, the Capitol Yacht Club and The Wharf enable easy access to all Washington, D.C., has to offer. Restaurants, shops, and waterfront parks are just steps from these marinas as well as transportation options.

A short eight-minute walk gets you to the nearest metro station or take the free shuttle and explore the nation’s Capitol. Don a good pair of walking shoes and spend a day, or two, or three, and visit the Smithsonian, art galleries, and monuments. These buildings and structures not only hold the evidence of days gone by but also the foundation upon which we continue to develop science, technology, industry, and society.

Before leaving the waterfront, be sure to stop by the iconic Municipal Fish Market. Established in 1805, it is the oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the United States and the best place to stock up on fresh seafood before heading back down the river.

In all, the trip from the Chesapeake Bay to Washington, D.C., on the Potomac River is less than 100 nautical miles. While you certainly could make your way up the river in rapid fashion, taking the time to explore all the Potomac has to offer will not go unrewarded. 

-by Teri Miller

Visit Lake Champlain

Making a Connection

Lake Champlain offers some of the best boating from New York to Vermont.

Magic and mystery are daily elements of cruising Lake Champlain. Maybe it’s looking east spotting the Green Mountains of Vermont rimming the horizon and looking west to the Adirondack Mountains of New York standing at attention. Or could it be anchoring in Button Bay that creates a mood? The site of a critical naval battle during the Revolutionary War, this bay is the final resting place for defeated American warships deliberately sunk as they fled the British. A special feeling also arises knowing that the lake provides one stretch of two tantalizing North American loop cruises, both of which traverse the St. Lawrence Seaway. The Triangle Loop meanders west to Lake Erie and north into Canada. The Down East Loop flows through Canadian cities, three provinces, and pours into the North Atlantic in Nova Scotia.

Holding its own as a destination, Lake Champlain provides serene anchorages, beautiful vistas, numerous state parks, fjord-like fingers, comfortable temperatures, and a host of small towns to explore. Museums abound to chronicle the numerous locally fought naval battles critical to the founding of the United States. Even the non-history buff will soak up appreciation of the fight for liberty occurring here. With control of Lake Champlain, the British intended to gain advantage by cutting off the northeastern states from the rest of the U.S. The patriots fought back. Lake Champlain also hosted battles during the French and Indian War and the War of 1812 as its strategic location was key to controlling inland access.

Measuring 125 miles long and 12 miles wide, Lake Champlain is named for explorer Samuel de Champlain, who founded Quebec in 1608 and sailed into what would become his namesake lake in 1609. Serving as the border for New York and Vermont, Lake Champlain connects Canada through the Chambly Canal winding north toward the St. Lawrence Seaway and New York via the Champlain Canal flowing south to the Hudson River. Either access point provides an exhilarating tour of largely rural areas beaded together by a series of historic canals and natural rivers. The entire lake runs north to south, reaches depths of 400 feet, and contains more than 70 islands. Some isles, like historically significant Valcour Island, are part of the New York State Park System. Others are privately owned, providing scenic anchorages, but no shore access.

Inland Sea

Not to be missed is the Inland Sea, the eastern part of Lake Champlain north of Burlington. Threading its way 25 miles north to south, this body of water is accessed through two navigable cuts: The Gut on the southern end and Alburgh Passage to the north. The latter is narrow, but free of shallow depths and heavy weeds that can clog The Gut in the summer. Numerous remote anchorages dot the Inland Sea, which seems Tolkienesque in name and mood. Big draws include Burton Island State Park, the No. 1-rated park in Vermont in 2019-2020 and home to a small marina, and St. Albans, featuring a quaint town square and lush farmers market. St. Albans requires a bike or a ride three miles uphill from the friendly folks at Bay Harbor Marina. Meandering between the Inland Sea’s many islands, one can travel 20 miles passing only a single channel marker due to sufficient depths.

Museums

For history immersion and boatbuilding inspiration, visit the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum in Vergennes. Mooring balls are available at North Harbor, adjacent to
the property. Philadelphia II, a replica of the Revolutionary War gunboat lost at the battle of Valcour Island, is on-site, along with countless other locally built vessels. There are programs for kayak-building and longboat-building created by collaborations with local schools.

Other museums to consider include the Shelburne Museum and the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum near Burlington, and Fort Ticonderoga on the southern end. Dominating a strategic point on the narrow end of the lake, Fort Ticonderoga hums with history. Tales of the bold nighttime-forced surrender by the British whistle in the wind behind the massive fortress walls.

Cruise Around

A stunning anchorage lies just south of the point and is guaranteed to conjure up echoes of cannon fire. Nearby, a ferry dock provides dinghy tie-up for the walk uphill to the fort.

While most cruisers will bring their own boats, there is one Burlington company that offers bareboat charters. Cruisers can visit a section of the lake in a weekend crisscrossing from the Vermont to the New York side. In a week, the lake can be traversed visiting four or five different locations, but two weeks allow time for immersion. Prioritize Valcour Island, Deep Bay, and Burton Island for hiking. All three offer secure anchorages and access to maintained hiking trails. Willsboro Bay on the New York side provides anchorage and marina options including a sunset-oriented restaurant, The Upper Deck.

A seven-mile winding trip up Otter Creek in Vermont leads to Vergennes. A free dock greets cruisers along with the famous waterfall illuminated at night. For boats with draft under four feet, the light show along with a popular restaurant makes the trip enticing.

Essex, New York, an entire hamlet listed on the National Register of Historic Places, oozes charm. Also on the New York side is Plattsburgh, with a large marina and ships store, on-site restaurant, and provisioning options.

As the region’s largest city, Burlington is a fun visit. Highlights include marinas, extraordinary restaurants, a “flight” of breweries each appealing to specific tastes like all ales or all sours, and abundant shopping and provisioning. Ice cream fanatics happily line up at Ben and Jerry’s, whose first location was in Burlington in 1978. Featured scoops include tantalizing flavors that will not make it to local grocery stores. For cyclists, there is a 13.4-mile, well-groomed bike trail stretching from the vibrant, scenic waterfront to the shallow southern entrance to the Inland Sea. Burlington spills down a steep hill to the lake. As the sun sets offering a breathtaking view from just about anywhere in the city, sounds of music drift out of many open doors. After all, it is the home of the band Phish.

Pay Attention to the Conditions

For the adventurous, cruising uncrowded Lake Champlain also serves up a wonderful variety of water sports. Kayaking in quiet coves, SCUBA diving wrecks, kite surfing when the wind is up, paddleboarding, fishing (walleye, pike, and bass), and swimming are all available. Averaging 73 degrees Fahrenheit in August, the water is refreshing. Spotting boaters sudsing up on their swim platform followed by a rinse in the clean lake water illustrates its appeal. Rarely in the summer, algae blooms may occur, which cause beaches to close for a few days. 

Regarding navigation, pay attention to water depth as some places are too deep to anchor. No flooding occurs, although Otter Creek can rise during rare heavy rain. Vigilance is required to track ferries that traverse from Vermont to New York and back in the three areas. Two large car ferries can often be seen simultaneously heading in different directions. Fog or misty conditions call for situational awareness and use of radar. Anchoring in depths more than 15 feet is recommended to avoid tangling one’s rode in dense vegetation that grows in shallow areas. 

Boaters from outside of Vermont, New York, and Canada run the gamut of canals and locks to get into Lake Champlain. Reading about safe lock practices and height and depth restrictions is wise. Proper length lines, sturdy boat hooks, fat fenders, and waterproof gloves will make this smoother. Additional Lake Champlain preparation would include disabling any overboard sanitation system. Closing a seacock is insufficient. Both New York and Vermont require hose removal and plugging any thru-hull.

The best weather occurs late June to early September, with a 79-degree average high in July and 61-degree average low. August and September have the fewest rainy days. Like many maritime environments, the weather can change several times during the day so layers and rain gear are suggested (flannel shirts are high fashion). While generally calm with less than two-foot waves, a cold front can whip up a frothy mess with short stacked waves of four feet or more.

If lack of tides and currents, delightful temperatures, a combination of remote open land, granite cliffs plunging to depths more than 300 feet, and a small village vibe excite you, consider this unspoiled, uncrowded inland lake. “Champ,” the legendary local sea monster, will welcome you. 

-by Maria Brown

A Beginner’s Guide to Chartering a Yacht

The Choice is Yours

There’s more to chartering a boat for a week than just choosing from a pretty picture.

Sailing charters have been around for decades, and they’re a great way to explore well beyond your home waters. But powerboaters have been shy to sign up, primarily because of the whole sailing obstacle. If you’re in this group, here are two secrets: Sailors motor on charter, a lot, and the number of powerboats available to charter has been growing rapidly over the past 10 years, so you now have a choice of exotic destinations to visit nearly year-round without ever raising a sail. 

Let’s first outline the kinds of charter available: fishing, superyacht, small boat crewed, and bareboat. The first three have always been powerboat-based and are crewed, which means you get a captain and a variably sized crew to take care of all the things you don’t want to or don’t know how to do. The last one is bareboat chartering where you’re the skipper with all the decision-making power and freedom…and the headaches that go with it. 

Let’s dive into what each means and what to look for in a boat. 

Benny’s Fishing Charters in Pompano Beach, FL

Fishing Charters

Fishing charters have been run on powerboats since there’s been power. They vary greatly—everything from day trips on center consoles with just a captain to overnight deep-sea outings on 80-foot-plus battlewagons with a full crew. When choosing one that’s right for you, determine what kind of fishing you want to do and for which species. Assess your skill level and decide on the duration of the trip you can afford. Short trips in protected waters will be calmer while offshore excursions will put you onto bigger fish. 

Things to look for in the boat will differ by the factors just mentioned. Useful features include good deck space, a fighting chair, plenty of room for gear and tackle, and a day head close to the action.

For bigger boats, a gyrostabilizer will make the deck steadier and reduce fatigue as well as seasickness. Check for the latest electronics and powerful engines to get you to the fish and back quickly because that’s downtime you’re still paying for.

If you’re bringing non-fishing family members, room to relax out of the way is key as is a galley for refreshments. More than the boat, the captain will make the difference so do your research on proper licensing, extensive experience, and great reviews.

Superyacht Charters

Luxury charters come in many flavors, and they’re always crewed because no owner will let you out on his superyacht with just a VISA card. You can opt for a day trip on a midsize Prestige, Azimut, or Sunseeker yacht, or go big with a Sunreef cat or a 200-foot monohull that will set you back $250,000 a week or more.

Things to look for in the boat include enough accommodations to sleep your entire party, multiple relaxation zones to separate guests and enhance privacy, and maybe even a hot tub, cinema, or beach club for exercise and waterside respite. Review the list of toys the yacht carries including SCUBA tanks, PWCs, slides, and more. Inquire about the yacht’s cruising speed and grounds so you get to see as much as possible. Again, it’s all about the captain and crew, so find out the crew-to-guest ratio and the captain’s reputation for accommodating guests. 

Small Boat Charter

“Small boat” is a misnomer here because we’re talking charters on vessels up to 55 feet. They come in crewed and bareboat versions and, these days, are typically catamarans. On a crewed charter, check out their preference sheets for provisioning. Ask about crew experience, if they allow kids, and a sample itinerary. 

If you go it alone, rest assured you now have lots of choices in both the kind of boat as well as the destinations you’re likely to find with outfits like The Moorings, Dream Yacht Charter, Horizon Yacht Charters, and MarineMax Vacations. 

There are plenty of powercat brands out there, including Aspen, World Cat, Fountaine Pajot, Arrowcat, Leopard, and more. But only a few appear in charter and, therefore, are available to you without writing a big check to buy one. The sweet spot for charters is in the mid-40-foot range but some reach beyond that. Let’s look at how to evaluate the options.

Engines/Fuel

“The appeal of power is that you can get everywhere faster in a shorter amount of time, and you can do multiple stops in a day,” says Ian Pedersen, senior marketing manager of The Moorings. Yes, big engines get the job done, but you’re responsible for the fuel you consume, so large engines aren’t always better and powercats differ in fuel efficiency. A 46-footer may offer all the same creature features for a great vacation, but it will burn less than a 54-footer.

Space

In general, powercats offer 1.2 times the accommodations and deck space of a same-length monohull, and that makes them ideal for groups who like to spread out. Most powercats will have a flybridge which includes a full helm station, summer galley, and wraparound seating. This adds more living space and creates a lounge from where to enjoy panoramic views. The foredeck, cockpit, and salon are commodious, too, as are the cabins below, so they’re perfect for new boaters who don’t like to feel claustrophobic. 

Privacy

A powercat creates natural divisions for semi-private zones. If your kids are playing in the cockpit, you can enjoy happy hour on the foredeck sunbed or up on the flybridge. Check to see if your cat is set up well for privacy zones.

Swim Platforms

Many of the larger cats have hydraulic swim platforms where they carry the dinghy rather than on davits, and that’s a bonus. First, once the dinghy is in the water, you can lower the platform to the waterline and create a teak beach club that’s perfect for lounging or entertaining kids. Second, it’s a great way to exit the water. The elderly, mobility impaired, or kids often have a tough time climbing the ladders, so just lower the platform, let them swim onto it, and then raise it. Easy peasy.

Accommodations

Most cats offer three to four cabins with or without ensuite heads. The cabins are larger than on monohulls or converted sailing cats, and they generally offer better light via ports because they’re not buried in the hulls. A private head per couple goes a long way to making guests comfortable. A rule of thumb on cabin count is the last number of the model. If a model is a 484, it’s a 48-footer with four cabins. A 433 is 43 feet and is the owner’s version (three cabins) for maximum privacy in one of the hulls. 

Details

Raul Bermudez, vice president of MarineMax Vacations, adds some other things to look for: Are the air-conditioning systems individually controlled for each cabin? Are the heads electric or manual? Is there a watermaker? How is the galley equipped, and how large is it? The key is comfort.  

Destinations

Powercat charter popularity is on the rise but that doesn’t mean you can get one anywhere. The Moorings offers Leopard powercats in the Abaco Sea/Bahamas, the British Virgin Islands (BVI), Croatia, and Thailand. MarineMax has a fleet of Aquila cats in the BVI and the Abacos. Horizon Yacht Charters has a Nautitech 47 and a crewed Lagoon 64 in the BVI, while Dream Yacht Charters offers Leopard, Fountaine Pajot, Aquila, and Bali in numerous destinations including Key West, the Sea of Cortez in Mexico, Exumas/Bahamas, Martinique, St. Martin, Croatia, Whitsunday Islands in Australia, and Nouméa in New Caledonia.

“Vacation time is precious, and powercats aren’t reliant on the local weather so they’re much faster, up to 10 knots faster in fact,” says Dan Lockyer, vice president of global tourism of Dream Yacht Charter. “Plus, they’re easier to maneuver than sailcats.”

Distances where you want to cover a lot of ground in a week, like the Exumas and the Sea of Cortez, are ideal for power charters. That said, destinations with shorter legs, like the BVI and the Abacos, are great, too, because you can check out four anchorages in a day and not burn a lot of fuel. “With the powerboats, you have the option to go as slow or as fast as you want, and you get to the mooring balls a little faster than the sailboats,” says Bermudez.

Leopard 46 and 53

The Moorings partners with South African builder Robertson and Caine who delivers Leopard cats. Leopard offers the 53 and the new 46 which is expected in charter soon. The 53 has twin sunbeds on the foredeck, a flybridge with a full staircase for easy access, a door from the salon directly to the bows, and that fabulous hydraulic swim platform. It also has a split galley so multiple chefs can work simultaneously.

Lagoon 65, 67, and 78

A charter on a Lagoon powercat will likely be crewed because Lagoon doesn’t currently build models less than 60 feet. However, you’ll find ultimate luxury on any of the models that are most likely in charter right now. Depending on the size, expect to find five or six cabins, a hot tub, superyacht-like amenities, and on some models, a separate galley where the crew prepares meals out of sight, leaving the salon strictly to the guests.

Nautitech 47

The Nautitech 47 with 300-hp Volvo Penta engines has a max speed of 22 knots and an interior helm so you can drive in comfort even if the weather is frightful. A dozen people can relax on twin lounges on the foredeck or take the party to the flybridge. A nice feature is the high bridge clearance that should minimize pounding from underneath when running into head seas. 

Bali Catspace MY and 4.3 MY

Bali Catamarans are built by Catana of France, and they have two models in their motoryacht range. Bali has dabbled in some layout innovations. First, they’ve done away with the idea of a separate salon and cockpit. Instead, the entire aft bulkhead lifts like a tilt-up garage door so the inside becomes the outside and it works well. Bali powercats also have an interior helm and full-size refrigerators that guests love.

Aquila 36, 44, 48, and 54

MarineMax Vacations is exclusive to Aquila powercats. They offer various models between 36 and 54 feet. For two couples, the 36 is a fantastic express-style boat with the helm and dinette outside under the hardtop and a summer galley with a grill aft. It’s powered by twin 350-hp outboards so it can really get up and go. The behemoth 54, on the other hand, has five cabins and five heads for bigger groups and may be offered with crew.

Don’t Be Shy

“The demand for powercats has grown consistently each year for the past decade,” says Pedersen. “That trend looks to continue in the years to come.” 

Bermudez agrees. “Power catamarans are the future of the charter industry,” he says. Indeed, powercats have made progress, from being too weird for most boaters to contemplate to becoming the ideal way to experience some of the world’s greatest charter destinations. Check out available models with a large charter company and then dive in. The water’s great.  

-by Zuzana Prochazka

The Best Food to Eat in the North

A Tasty Trip Through the North

From pizza to chowder to lobster rolls, rich, flavorful fare calls foodies to this region.

The northeastern United States is a perfect illustration of the American melting pot. Every wave of immigration passing through New York’s famed Ellis Island brought with it eager laborers from different cultures and traditions. In the late 19th and 20th centuries, they toiled away building America: raising skyscrapers and cities, assembling infrastructures, and manufacturing goods.

Thrilled by this new country, they still hungered for the familiar flavors of home. A dedicated few worked to recreate the comforting food of their native land with the ingredients accessible in their adopted motherland. From coastal cities to mill towns along the rivers of New England to cities inland connected by rail, communities of migrants from Ireland, Germany, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Russia, Poland, and Asia (among many others) brought their regional dishes. As these foods gained in popularity, they too migrated and changed based on location and available ingredients.

Pizza

Pizza is a perfect example. New York City and New Haven, Connecticut, about 80 miles apart, were desperate for laborers. Political strife and economic struggles in Naples, Italy, sent many young workers over to America in search of a better life. An enterprising few endeavored to bring this beloved peasant food from their native land. The dishes evolved into subtly different versions. New York City pizza is mostly recognized as a by-the-slice offering. It’s a complete meal by itself: The giant, sturdy, twice-baked slices can hold any number of hearty toppings. 

When visiting the Northeast, disavow yourself of pizza as a delivery food cooked on a fast-food conveyor belt. Instead, embrace the pizzaioli standards of brick or deck ovens, where temperatures achieved by different fuel sources impact the final product. 

The New Haven version, called apizza (pronounced ah-petz), has reached cult status. Baked at higher temperatures achieved by wood fires, it has a moist, thin crust, which means the toppings are also spread sparsely. Because of its refined and delicate nature, apizza is always sold by the whole pie. People are willing to wait in line for hours in any of New Haven’s three apizza darlings, all within blocks of one another in the famed Wooster Square neighborhood: Pepe’s, Sally’s, and Modern. 

Moving west, pizza gets hectic (some say heretic) with Chicago’s deep-dish pizza: a thick, doughy crust lining a three-inch-deep pan, covered with a substantial layer of cheese, a hearty amount of rich tomato sauce, meats, and vegetables, topped with more dough and maybe another sprinkle of cheese. While it’s eastern, flat pizza cousin bakes in mere minutes, the dense Chicago version can take up to an hour. 

Detroit pizza is a rectangular, doughy, focaccia-style pizza cut into squares as opposed to wedges. 

Clams

The shores of New England are rich with seafood—specifically bi-valves like mussels, clams, and oysters. If you’re an oyster fan, sampling fare from any of thousands of bays from Long Island up to Maine offers a vast array of flavors and textures. But don’t overlook the humble clam. The only northeastern rivalry more intense than Yankees versus Red Sox is chowder distinctions. 

All clam chowder is a soup made of large quahog clams, onion, and potato, but the agreement ends there. Rhode Island Chowder has a clear, briny, seafood broth. Manhattan chowder is made with tomatoes and green peppers because of Italian immigrants. The New England version is a thick, creamy, almost stew-like dish, sometimes with celery or sherry. It bears the closest resemblance to its trans-Atlantic counterpart, a French seafood stew. Hartford chowder is the ultimate abdication of decision-making: one bowl with a ladleful each of Manhattan and New England chowders.

Also hotly debated in the chowder department is the presence of pork and/or thyme. Is either a welcome addition? Does bacon overpower the delicate sweetness of fresh clams? If you add thyme, can you taste anything else? 

Every restaurant and diner along the coast will boast their version is “award-winning.” The only way to find out is to taste them all. Something to note: Oyster crackers accompanying all chowders do not contain oyster.

Clams are more versatile than just soup—like Pepe’s white clam pizza. The clam strip roll, a chewy, white bun stuffed with crispy, fried, fresh clams, is a modest delicacy rarely found more than 30 miles inland. Soft-shell clams, also known as steamers, are best served steamed so you can dip the sweet briny meat into melted butter. Eat them as “stuffies” or stuffed clams— especially in Rhode Island and around Fall River, Massachusetts, where Portuguese chouriço sausage adds a spicy element to the sweet clams. 

Lobster

Clams are often overlooked for their far more glamorous cousin the lobster. At one time, these cold-water crustaceans were considered pests and purported to have washed ashore in piles. Native Americans used them as fertilizer and bait. Early settlers fed this cheap source of protein to children, laborers, and slaves. Fast-forward through developments in canning processes which allowed the meat to be preserved, advancements in train transportation which afforded greater travel between landlocked folk and coastal lobsters, and more Americans were exposed to the succulent flesh. This one-time peasant food underwent a glow-up to the luxury food we know it as today. 

The Atlantic or Maine lobster is meatier, with larger tails than its Caribbean cousin. When fresh, they’re best showcased very simply. Forget fancy preparations, find a lobster pound on the water who’ll pluck a critter from a holding net in the sea and plop it straight into a steam bath, then serve it up with some drawn butter and a side of slaw. 

A lobster bake (also called a clam bake) is a version of the Native American ritual of lining a well in the sand with fire-hot rocks and wet seaweed before adding lobsters, shellfish, and vegetables then covering with more seaweed. The heat from the rocks forces steam from the wet seaweed which slowly cooks everything together. 

The finest lobster meal, however, is the simple lobster roll. There are two distinct camps of lobster rolls; you will be asked to swear allegiance to a tribe. 

Both rolls involve chunks of cooked lobster heaped in a bread roll—not just any roll, one purpose-designed for filling with fresh New England seafood. This split-top version of a hot dog bun has flat sides for buttering and toasting, but also stands up quite nicely so the filling overflows the top and doesn’t spill out the sides. 

Connecticut lobster rolls are served warm with the lobster drenched in butter. The Maine version is a cold mayonnaise-based salad with chunks of celery. The uninitiated may claim
they are equal, but it is a well-known fact that a warm, buttery lobster roll is far superior.

Sandwiches

Please don’t call the lobster roll a sandwich. 

The stuffed sandwich on a long, soft roll nationally recognized as a submarine or sub goes by different regional names. 

In Pennsylvania, it’s called a hoagie, while cosmopolitan New Yorkers refer to it as a hero. In the rest of New England, you can call it a sub if it’s stuffed with cold food, but the hot version (meatballs, chicken parm, eggplant parm) is a grinder. 

While technically a hoagie, the cheesesteak, or Philly cheesesteak, doesn’t really need a last name. It’s the ultimate in street food: The hearty roll can be eaten standing or walking, and the thin-shaved beef strips and sliced onion are cooked quickly on the grill of a food truck or cart.

Chicago, home of cattle stockyards, offers up an Italian beef sandwich, gravy-laden sliced sirloin steak with onion and celery stuffed in an Italian grinder roll. 

Also in Chicago, the Jibarito (pronounced he-ba-reto), is a bread-free Puerto Rican/American hybrid with fried plantain, slices of sandwich beef, chicken, or pulled pork, along with garlicky mayo, tomato, American cheese, and lettuce. 

Whether or not you consider hot dogs as sandwiches (you shouldn’t), every Northeastern area has its own version, the base of which is always a local dog and never from a food service or giant conglomerate. You may be familiar with New York’s version, with spicy brown mustard and sauerkraut, but what about Chicago’s on a poppy seed bun with onions, yellow mustard, peppers, celery salt, tomatoes, and NO ketchup? In upstate New York, you’ll find a Michigan or just michigan, which is a red-hot dog topped with a minced-meat chili. In Michigan, they call a similar dog a Coney, while in Rhode Island, their twist on that is a New York System. It’s like a giant Möbius strip made of frankfurters. 

The Northeast has so much more to offer and to taste, such as egg sandwiches on an amazing array of soft European-inspired bread rolls, the Chicago steakhouses, local small-batch maple syrups, cheeses from the sprawling pastures of Vermont, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Wisconsin,  Rhode Island’s coffee milk, and Del’s lemonade. Don’t be afraid to try it all. 

-by Rubi McGrory

Hope Town Inn & Marina

Set your nautical adventure to Hope Town Inn & Marina.

Elbow Cay, Abaco, The Bahamas 

Whether you visit the settlement of Hope Town, climb the one and only Elbow Reef Lighthouse or bike the island of Elbow Cay, the sun-drenched discoveries are full of local culture, great eats, and sugar sand beaches. The Abacos waters are known for world-class fishing, sailing, and snorkeling. Make the most of your next adventure to paradise, all from Hope Town Inn & Marina.

A Warm Welcome

“Welcome” is not a greeting in the Abacos, it’s a way of being, a way of seeing people—visitors or locals—and embracing their presence and time on the island. That’s why the Hope Town Inn & Marina has a whole new Welcome Center. The Hope Town Inn & Marina wants everyone to feel from the moment they arrive that welcome is a state of mind.

The new space offers high-speed internet, a coffee bar, a cocktail bar, a business center, a conference room and other amenities, the Welcome Center is designed to make people comfortable as they make their first contact with the property. Whether you’re arriving on a boat, booking a reservation for dinner, or making inquiries about buying a villa on the property, the Welcome Center is a physical extension of the warmth and heartfelt appreciation of islanders on the property and off to anybody who visits.

The Hope Town Inn & Marina offers dream Weddings

The fanning of palm fronds overhead for a witness, a soft crunch of surf to cadence the vows, sparkling water promising something blue—that’s before the arrival of any of your fond friends. The wedding season is all-year in the Bahamas.

The Hope Town Inn & Marina can host a wedding party on the grounds, indoors or outdoors, on the beach or by candlelight with white linen table service. You bring the love; we’ll surround it with romance.

Johnny’s Cay, a private island

Imagine getting married on your own private island.  Johnny’s Cay, an exclusive private island set to host weddings, family gatherings and parties of all sorts.  Not even a mile from Hopetown, yet a world away in terms of privacy and intimacy, Johnny’s Cay has been developed with the lightest touch to provide the amenities a truly memorable party requires while letting the natural surroundings steal the show.  The island has a beach for sunrise and a beach for sunset, a beach for calm reflection and a beach for playing in the waves—with sand as white as cane sugar.

Discover Hope Town Inn & Marina. There is no place like it.

Inside the Outer Banks

Inside the Outer Banks

Cruising the sounds of North Carolina’s east coast is full of adventure. 

One of the wildest watery destinations for boaters on the East Coast of the U.S. is North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Boats of all sizes and shapes venture to four main ports along the coast and often turn west into the sounds, rivers, and creeks for small-town diversions and solitude.

Comprising more than 3,000 square miles, Pamlico Sound is the second-largest estuary in the U.S., eclipsed only by the Chesapeake Bay. It’s big water. Navigation, safety, and weather are always the watchwords when venturing to the delightful destinations along the inside and outside shorelines. 

Outer and Inner Banks

The Outer Banks were once defined only as the Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands. Portsmouth Island is considered the Core Banks but has also been grouped into the Outer Banks. Over the years, common usage and marketing has expanded the term to mean pretty much every stretch of sand from the North Carolina/Virginia border south to Beaufort. Then someone decided that Inner Banks might be a catchy title for the coastal region on the western side of the Pamlico. Regardless of what you call them, the ports, anchorages, and waterways are some of the best boating in the U.S.

Getting There

Choose your destination based on your abilities and vessel. Do not rush. Plan carefully. Running Pamlico Sound can be a slick ride or a pounding that makes you want to be at the dock. The shallow water and open fetches mean that winds over 15 knots will stir things up to uncomfortable levels for all but the largest boats, and there are shoals and shallows that must be avoided. But you don’t necessarily need to run in open water for long to get to your Outer Banks destinations. You have options.

The Big Four

Four ports that beckon for a full-on Outer Banks adventure are Manteo, Hatteras, Ocracoke, and Beaufort. Visited one at a time, or as a complete trip, there are facilities and amenities at each for boats of all sizes. While the Pamlico Sound system is the overall geographical designation of the region, there are several other named sounds through which you will navigate. Albemarle, Croatan, Roanoke, and Core Sounds are shown on the charts and maps, so you know where you are.

Manteo

At the northern end of the Outer Banks on Roanoke Island is the town of Manteo. One of the most historically significant locations specific to the European settlement of North America, Manteo’s waterfront and marina can accommodate vessels up to 100 feet with seven feet of dockside depth. Navigation to the harbor from the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) to the west when you are southbound requires some planning, and there is ample advice available from various sources.

The town has plenty to offer within walking distance, and the oceanfront comprising Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, and Kill Devil Hills is a short drive east. You can spend weeks here exploring, eating your way through superb restaurants and visiting America’s history.

Hatteras

Forty-five nautical miles south of Manteo is Hatteras. Home to commercial and charter fleets, the harbor has room for transient and visiting vessels at several marinas as well as a boatyard for services or maintenance. If you arrive by boat, plan ahead. You will need transportation to get to the few restaurants and grocery stores on quaint Hatteras Island. The National Park Service maintains the Hatteras Lighthouse and Visitor’s Center, and there are plenty of campsites, some B&Bs, and a hotel or two. Hatteras Island is a long way from anywhere, but worth the trip. 

Ocracoke

In order to make the next port of call, you will need to run about 25 nautical miles to avoid shallow water and shoals. Ocracoke Island and the little town of the same name is a favorite for boaters and landlubbers alike. The island comes alive in the summer for families and travelers wanting to get away from it all. Miles of beaches, some great little cafes, a brewery, and gift shops keep the island vibrant. There are only a few marinas and an anchorage in the harbor known as Silver Lake. Golf carts and hoofing it are the primary means of transportation. Provisions are easy to come by, and you may find yourself spending a week or more lolling about in the southern sunshine and breezes. Call the marinas and docking facilities in advance as space is limited.

Beaufort

Fifty nautical miles farther southwest is Beaufort and Morehead City. Using either Core Sound (with local knowledge only) or crossing the southern end of Pamlico Sound to take the ICW inside will get you there. Beaufort and Morehead are reachable via Core Sound, but locals and adventurers are probably the only ones who should try based on several factors. It’s skinny water, but it’s not totally impassable. The big boats don’t go there, but everyone doesn’t own a big boat. Beaufort is the quintessential ICW town with plenty of marinas, restaurants, inns, and a waterfront vibe that’s pure North Carolina nautical. A favorite stop for many making passage on the ICW, Beaufort—and its next-door neighbor Morehead City—will keep you entertained and also offer protection from weather and wind. 

Navigation

Navigation advice for these destinations abounds. There are several important considerations when planning a visit to any of these Outer Banks locations. First, from which direction are you leaving? Second, what size is your boat? Third, what is your experience and comfort level?

If you travel from north to south and visit each destination in order, then the mileages and suggested routes will get you there with minimal stress as long you watch the weather and have a well-found vessel. Albemarle, Pamlico, Croatan, Roanoke, and Core Sounds will beat you up if you don’t pay attention. Summer thunderstorms and passing fronts are not to be disregarded. The Bermuda High dominates in the summer and southwest winds of 15-20 knots may last for days. But, as stated earlier, you have options. 

You can visit two of the destinations without spending too much time in open water. Manteo and Beaufort require less open-water navigation than Hatteras and Ocracoke. Beaufort can also be reached via the ICW canals, rivers, and protected portions of the Pamlico. If you are in a sailboat and relish 15-20 knots, then sailing the sounds to the true Outer Banks towns of Hatteras and Ocracoke is a breeze, but watch the depth sounder. Many large vessels go outside and come in at Hatteras Inlet for visits to Hatteras and Ocracoke, and Beaufort Inlet for that location. Avoid Oregon Inlet unless you have local knowledge or the confidence of following the charter fleet that comes and goes daily when weather permits. 

If all of this sounds daunting, then there are many towns, marinas, and anchorages on the western side of the Pamlico that can keep you cruising all season ducking in and out of protected harbors with enchanting waterfronts, restaurants, and shops for provisioning. 

-by Ed Tillett, Waterway Guide

Bahamas Marinas are Building Back

Bahamas Marinas are Building Back

Serious improvements and renovations are proceeding at many Bahama marinas and to start the update, here are four well on their way.

Bimini Big Game Club ( See Featured Image)

Preparing for a crazy summer season, the Bimini Big Game Club marina’s upgrades include two new T-head pedestals, new ice machine, and improved Wi-Fi distribution. A new saltwater pump at the fish cleaning table is installed and around the pool, more chaise lounges and umbrellas are available.

The Bimini Big Game Bar & Grill has added new Special Dining Days, including a Friday Bimini fish fry, Saturday night prime rib special, Sunday lobster dinner, and Taco Tuesdays. Sharkies, next to Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center, is open daily (with new expanded roof for more shade and cover), and the new Hemingway’s poolside Rum Bar Club opened June 1st.  biggameclubbimini.com 

Bay Street Marina

Undergoing a major expansion at its Nassau Bahamas location, Bay Street Marina has added 30 new slips for a total of 120. The new docks can accommodate vessels up to 500 feet in length with a 22-foot draft. Fuel service is now available at RUBIS fuel dock at Dock D.

Each slip is equipped with fresh RO water and electrical service from 30-amp power to direct 480v feeds. Wi-Fi capabilities have improved as has a CCTV system with 24-hour security to ensure the safety of vessels and property. Bay Street Marina has an on-site swimming pool, air-conditioned restrooms and showers, laundry room, crew lounge, fish cleaning station, BBQ grill station, and the on-site Green Parrot bar and restaurant. baystreetmarina.com

Nassau Yacht Haven

Nassau Yacht Haven is the oldest continuously operating marina in the Bahamas at 74 years. In 2018, the marina took new ownership under a 9th generation Bahamian maritime family keen on embracing the marina’s history while upgrading it to modern amenities.

The marina sports a new state-of-the-art Cybex Gym with the latest machines, and the new two-story Crew House Bar & Lounge capable of hosting large events from its 360-degree view of Nassau Harbour. A brand new dockmaster’s office has been relocated for better dock monitoring and safety, and the docks now have three new lounges over the water for guests and crew to socialize, read, or nap in shaded hammocks and lounge furniture. A state-of-the-art, in-slip Wi-Fi system is installed as are electric pedestals with up to 480V 200A power, high pressure UV and membrane filtered water, new gates, 4k infrared cameras, and 24/7 manned security. nassauyachthaven.com

Valentines Resort & Marina

Located in the heart of Harbour Island, Valentine’s Resort & Marina is replacing the entire electrical infrastructure on the docks, including new power pedestals and transformers. The docks will receive new decking and planking. A substantial amount of the work has already been completed and the remaining projects are planned for completion in September 2022.

Valentines has already opened their new saltwater pool and is in the process of replacing the chaise lounges and beach umbrellas at Valentines’ private section of Pink Sands Beach. valentinesresort.com

Bahamas National Parks by Boat

The Bahamas’ National Parks by Boat

Each marine park offers visitors a unique experience.

What brings visitors to the shores of the Bahamas is different for everyone. But you’re sure to gain a one-of-a-kind experience when you visit one of our marine parks.

At The Bahamas National Trust (BNT), our mandate is to protect national parks for the benefit of both people and nature itself. These parks are special places that support biodiversity and provide unique spaces for people to connect with nature. Did you know there are 32 national parks (and counting!) in the Bahamas for you to explore?

Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park

Out of these 32 parks, 23 are entirely marine-protected areas or hybrid land and sea parks, which are the perfect stop for those boating in Bahamian waters. If there’s one you may have heard of, it’s most likely the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park (ECLSP), which is
the first land and sea park in the world.

The historic ECLSP is a sanctuary for invaluable and unique species and natural resources. Within its 174,194-acre boundary are some of the healthiest reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and other ecosystems you’ll see in the Bahamas. This is a prime boating destination that provides visitors various up-close experiences to enjoy with nature. Popular activities in the ECLSP include hiking, exploring, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and more. 

Our Quick Guide to the ECLSP, an all-inclusive guide to the Exumas and the ECLSP specifically, supplies information on the full host of activities guests can enjoy during their stay in the park. As a bonus, we offer special experiences with our ECLSP Park Wardens on a case-by-case basis for visitors.

Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park

While the ECLSP may be the most well-known of our marine parks, there’s no shortage of options of other parks for boaters navigating our waters to choose from. If Exuma isn’t on your list, stop by the Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park in Abaco. The second land and sea park established in the Bahamas, it offers the perfect serene environment to enjoy the sun, water, and nature of the Bahamas. Dip your toes into the crystal-clear sea or spread out your picnic blanket and spend your day relaxing on top of the warm, sandy shores. 

Pelican Cays has a wide range of fun and exciting things for visitors to do. It has spectacular snorkeling and diving because of its impressive reef systems that support a high diversity of tropical reef species. The magnificent coral reefs and pristine, inviting beaches within the park make it a valuable attraction for both visitors and residents, and it’s frequently used during the summer and holiday seasons.

The Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park protects 2,100 acres of extensive coral reefs and abounds with terrestrial plant and animal life. More than 170 species have been documented within park boundaries, which serves as a refuge for sea turtles and other species. Additionally, commercially important species such as the Nassau Grouper, Queen Conch, and Caribbean Spiny Lobster have been seen within the park, as well as marine mammals and some species of seabirds that have been observed nesting in colonies on the rocky cays.

Moriah Harbour Cay National Park

If you’re searching for a marine park where you can experience the wonders of the Bahamas’ natural beauty and diverse species, visit the Moriah Harbour Cay National Park. This park in Exuma was established in 2002, after decades of petitioning and campaigning from locals and conservation champions like Basil Minns. A local Exumian, Minns grew up surrounded by nature and saw firsthand all that Moriah Harbour Cay had to offer. He led the charge to declare it a national park. Many of the activities he recalls participating in with his family, such as picnicking, kayaking, swimming, birdwatching, diving, etc., are all available for guests to experience today.

Home to vibrant populations of endangered corals, sea turtles, conch, lobster, grouper, birds, and sharks, Moriah Harbour Cay—with its breathtaking views and turquoise waters—provides incredible opportunities for recreation, such as kayaking, snorkeling, kiteboarding, bonefishing, hiking, and photography. 

The park encompasses more than 27,000 acres of pristine beaches, sand dunes, mangrove creeks, seagrass beds, blue holes, and coral reefs. It boasts an abundance of wildlife, important habitats, and numerous ways for people to connect with and enjoy the wonders of nature. The marine environments protected in this area are a vital part of the Exumas. This is a national park that perfectly exemplifies the natural “jewels” of the Bahamas.

As extraordinary as these parks all are, they have one very important thing in common:
their beauty needs to be preserved for the benefit of the Bahamas, its people and visitors, and nature itself. 

Rules and Regulations

Take this invitation to visit and explore what all 32 of our national parks have to offer, but make sure you follow park rules and regulations while you do. Many species depend on these areas to survive and thrive, and the conservation of these areas and species are intrinsically tied to the Bahamas’ culture, history, and economy. That’s why we must work together to ensure these species and ecosystems remain protected, for now and tomorrow. We want everyone to be able to visit, experience, and enjoy these special places for themselves.

Read about the rules and regulations of the ECLSP in our Quick Guide to the ECLSP, but note the rules outlined there generally apply to all our national parks. 

Among these regulations, it’s important to emphasize that the park is a complete no-take zone, meaning under no circumstances is any fishing, conching, shelling, or lobstering allowed. Nothing living or deceased may be removed from the park.

To learn more about the role the BNT plays to manage terrestrial and marine national parks, protect species that inhabit them, and inform environmental policy, visit bnt.bs. 

To directly support the work of the BNT, consider making a donation. The Bahamas National Trust Fund Inc. is a 501C3-registered charity in the U.S. This means donations made to the organization are tax-deductible. If you want to make a more long-term impact, consider joining the BNT and becoming a member. Visit bnt.bs or email supporttheparks@bnt.bs.

-by The Bahamas National Trust

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