New England Yacht Charter

New England Yacht Charter Guide

The cradle of American boating, New England is a quintessential sailing destination promising rugged scenery, rich maritime history, and sophisticated experiences.

Whether it’s delving into the legacy of the old whaling trade days portrayed in Moby Dick, attending the America’s Cup sailing race, or travelling Cape Cod JFK-style and living it up in Nantucket, New England is the undisputed yachting capital of the United States.

Reasons to Charter in New England

A New England yacht charter holiday combines adventure, historical treasures, and spectacular cruising grounds all the way from Maine to Connecticut.

Locals insist sailing is in New England’s very DNA, and there are plenty of cultural highlights, historic ports, and beautiful coastal scenery to explore – not to mention the region’s mouth-watering seafood cuisine or its elite holiday destinations like Martha’s Vineyard favoured by American presidents and Hollywood stars alike.

Here are the top three reasons to charter a yacht in New England:

Gorgeous Scenery

While New England may not boast Caribbean-like tropical islands or coral reefs, the coastal scenery here is nothing short of spectacular.

From jagged, rocky shores, windswept beaches, and old lighthouses to dreamy fishing villages and bustling cosmopolitan ports, the New England shores are a kaleidoscope of beautiful vistas.

Rich Maritime History

For history buffs, going on a New England charter yacht vacation is a voyage in time.

Whether it’s the rich heritage of Portsmouth dating back to the 1600s, Boston’s past reaching from colonial trading brigs of the West Indies and clippers carrying Chinese tea to Prohibition-era rumrunners’ vessels, or the fascinating storey of Charles W Morgan, the world’s last surviving wooden whaling ship, New England is steeped in rich and layered maritime history.

Exquisite Cuisine

Bar Harbour lobsters, Newport clam chowder, Rhode Island clams casino – New England is world-famous for its delicious seafood dishes.

Fresh seafood dominates the region’s cuisine, and sampling local delicacies ranging from fish and chips to freshly caught lobster is a culinary adventure of its own.

Featured Yacht Charter Destinations in New England

Boasting thousands of miles of coastline ranging from idyllic to dramatic, New England offers diverse sailing grounds with countless intriguing ports of call to explore.

From mist-shrouded islands and sandy beaches to vibrant cities, charming coastal villages, and upscale holiday spots of the rich and the famous, this is a region to savour at a leisurely pace.

Here are some of the most iconic destinations to consider for a New England yacht charter itinerary:

Maine

Iconic lighthouses, a rocky coastline, and dreamy islands make up the natural beauty of Maine, a state synonymous with sailing and seafood.

Bar Harbour on Mount Desert Island is a magnet for luxury yachts boasting charming architecture and award-winning restaurants known for the best lobster in the country, while the mountainous shores of Acadia National Park provide a stunning backdrop as you sail by.

Maine’s Casco Bay is a gem for sandy beaches, beautiful islands, and quaint coastal towns.

For those seeking tranquillity away from the tourist crowds, Penobscot Bay, dotted with hundreds of islands, offers a secluded refuge of unspoiled nature and some of the best scenery in Maine.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s coastline is mere twenty miles, but its vibrant city of Portsmouth hides a treasure chest of historic landmarks and gorgeous architecture. With history going back as far as the early 1600s, Portsmouth is one of the oldest cities in the States, known for its unique character and culture.

A little south of Portsmouth lies Hampton Beach, famous for its upbeat Oceanfront Boardwalk lined with bustling shops and cafes, beautiful beaches, and a lively arts and music scene.

Massachusetts

Home to Boston, a historic harbour with a picturesque waterfront and rich maritime heritage and culture, Massachusetts is one of the most iconic destinations for New England yacht charters.

Boasting prestigious sailing events and regattas, scenic cruising grounds, and elite holiday spots, Massachusetts is ideal for a luxury yacht cruise filled with sophisticated experiences.

The bay of Cape Cod is one of the most popular yacht charter magnets famous for its pristine coastline of sandy beaches and dunes, sheltered harbours, and charming seaside towns.

The island of Nantucket, once the whaling capital of the world, is now a prestigious hub attracting wealthy private yacht owners and America’s beau monde. Upscale shopping, dining, and wining dining aside, Nantucket is known for its sandy beaches, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.

The nearby Martha’s Vineyard is another classic luxury yacht destination favoured by some of the wealthiest and most influential people on the planet.

With its multi-million-dollar mansions, high-end boutiques and restaurants, and golf clubs, Martha’s Vineyard is a place to see and be seen, while its postcard-perfect coastal scenery of Gay Head cliffs and hidden coves make for an excellent sailing playground.

Rhode Island

Dubbed the Ocean State, Rhode Island brims with nautical charm, rich maritime heritage, and spectacular scenery.

From the picturesque Block Island to the bustling harbour of Newport, lined with waterfront estates and lofty Gilded Age mansions, Rhode Island lives and breathes sailing, making it a must-visit destination on your luxury yacht charter vacation.

Connecticut

The shoreline of Connecticut is dotted with beaches, iconic lighthouses, and charming harbour towns.

The Long Island Sound separating Connecticut from New York is ideal for fishing and kayaking, the historic town of Mystic offers a glimpse into New England’s whale trading days, while the quaint historic village of Sag Harbour is a perfect yacht anchorage for a day of exploring boutique shops, antique stores, and upscale seafood restaurants.

Find New England Yacht Charters That Offer the Right Features

New England is a unique sailing destination offering exquisite experiences, cultural highlights, and stunning scenery.

However, selecting a charter yacht with convenient onboard amenities can enhance the experience. Whether it’s spacious living quarters equipped with a movie theatre or the services of a personal chef, options among different charter yachts are a highly individual choice.

Below, we list some of the key charter yacht features to consider:

Comfortable Cabins

Well-appointed, spacious cabins and ample room on deck are essential for comfortable yachting, especially if you intend to entertain guests or bring family along.

Jacuzzi

Enjoying the spectacular views of the New England coastline while relaxing in a Jacuzzi or a hot tub on deck adds to that delicious feeling of luxury and extravagance synonymous with sailing.

Movie Theatre

Watching your favourite films in a private movie theatre while cruising by Boston or Portsmouth's glittering waterfront can elevate your charter yacht holiday to a new level.

When to Visit: New England Weather

The high season for sailing in New England is between May and September. While the summer months see warm weather and calm seas, September promises the colourful tapestry of changing foliage.

The Cost of a New England Yacht Charter

The price of sailboat rental in New England depends on the yacht type, capacity, and size.

Some smaller sailing yachts and catamarans can cost around $15,000 - $20,000 per week, while larger motor yachts cost between $30,000 and $50,000 per week. A luxury crewed (as opposed to bareboat) yacht charter in New England may cost $100,000 - $200,000 and upward.

Book Your Dream Yacht Charter Today

Chartering a yacht in New England is the ultimate travel experience combining luxury, freedom, and adventure.

From spectacular landscapes and wonders of the sea to rich cultural experiences, historic landmarks, and culinary delights, cruising along the New England coast will create memories of a lifetime.

Browse your charter yacht options today and embark on a dream voyage in the yachting capital of America.