NANTUCKET BOAT BASIN

BY ALEXA ZIZZI

OFF THE COAST OF Massachusetts, this dazzling crescent-shaped island in Nantucket Sound was once the whaling capital of the world. It now holds a piece of history preserved along the docks of the harbor’s only marina.

Where dozens of whale ships and schooners anchored during the booming whaling era of the mid-1700 to 1830s is now Nantucket Boat Basin’s 240-slip full-service marina and premier destination. The property is made up of only wet slips and accommodates vessels ranging from 20 to 200 feet.

Amenities include fuel dock service, slip-side cable TV, laundry facilities, complimentary pump-out, oil and ice, as well as 18 baths and showers located throughout the site’s three wharves. Convenient slip-side check-in is also a plus.

Get cozy and stay for a while at the charming waterside cottages and lofts where you can request to dock right outside of your room. The classic cedar-shingled architecture will make you feel at home as you relax on decks lined with freshly bloomed foliage.

In addition to charters and recreational boating rentals, enjoy local activities including watersports, shopping, historic sightseeing and a lovely dining scene. Take a dinghy ride or short walk to go for a refreshing swim at one of the local beaches.

Just steps from the marina, grab delicious grub at Nantucket Lobster Trap or B-ACK Yard BBQ. The Old South Wharf offers fresh seafood at Slip 14 restaurant or and science exhibits of the Maria Mitchell Association, as well as the Nantucket Whaling Museum for a full history of the area.

Back at the marina, the concierge staff will assist you with making restaurant reservations to booking scooter rentals, transportation, fishing and sailing charters, and even pet and babysitting services.

Japanese cuisine at Bar Yoshi. Over at Straight Wharf, enjoy fine dining spots including the oyster bar at Cru, or the historic Straight Wharf Restaurant.

Surrounded by a region rich in history from whaling capital to world-class boating destination, the marina’s guests explore local attractions that showcase a prelude to the past. Museums, lighthouses and landmarks along the historic district are among many sites to see. Visit the Historic Mitchell House

“We set ourselves apart with exceptional guest services, amenities and our knowledgeable, approachable staff. Each team member works to ensure our guests’ experiences are tailored to fit their unique needs and expectations,” says Christina Martin, director of marina operations. “Season after season we look forward to welcoming back our many returning guests and introducing new guests to all that Nantucket Harbor has to offer.”

Be sure to check out the Nantucket Daffodil Festival held during the first spring bloom in April and Nantucket Race Week in August. ml