Destination focus: New England

Charter and Sales Broker Alastair Callender provides an insider’s guide to this unique charter destination.

Renowned for its rich maritime history, charming architecture and fresh seafood, coastal New England holds a special place in Alastair Callender’s heart. With family in and around the Boston area, Alastair has been visiting New England since childhood. Having established Moravia Yachting in the Americas in 2020, he has many clients that love chartering in the region and has garnered a wealth of experience curating tailor-made New England charter itineraries. 

 “New England is one of the most iconic regions in the United States, with its old lighthouses on rocky clifftops and its historical significance given that the initial pilgrims arrived on the shores of Cape Cod aboard the Mayflower,” comments Alastair. “A yacht charter in this region makes for very special cruising over a two-week itinerary that can be tailored to each client.” 

“New England is one of the most iconic regions in the United States, with its old lighthouses on rocky clifftops and its historical significance given that the initial pilgrims arrived on the shores of Cape Cod aboard the Mayflower”

New England’s best yachting conditions can be enjoyed from early June through to the end of summer. Alastair advises starting most charter itineraries in Newport, Rhode Island – the historical sailing capital of America. Not only is Newport the summer home for most yachts based in the region, but clients starting a charter from there will benefit from zero tax charged on the charter fee. 

In Newport, guests can take in the ornate mansions owned by prestigious American families that line the water’s edge, as well as enjoy the town’s vibrant waterfront. Newport is particularly known for its delicious cuisine, offering everything from a local lobster roll to fine dining. Alastair’s personal recommendation is dinner at Clarke Cooke House or Castle Hill. 

From Newport, Alastair recommends stopping at Block Island to the south of the Rhode Island mainland. “This is a wonderful area to enjoy seafood and beautiful coastlines,” he says. “It’s also where guests will see one of their first lighthouses on the trip: North Lighthouse built in 1867.” 

“This is a wonderful area to enjoy seafood and beautiful coastlines”

Quintessentially New England, the island of Nantucket is not to be missed. Once a busy international port and whaling town, its winding narrow streets are lined with traditional cedar-shingled houses. The nearby Martha’s Vineyard is a frequent haunt for the summer. “The bustling fishing village Menemsha Harbor is a must, and the island is fun for hiking,” advises Alastair. “It’s a very unique and very special area.” 

“The bustling fishing village Menemsha Harbor is a must, and the island is fun for hiking”

A highpoint of Cape Cod is Provincetown, located on the most northern point of the sandy peninsula. It is an artistic community with plenty of boutique shops and eateries to enjoy. Alastair suggests visiting Pilgrim Monument – standing at 252 ft (75m), a climb to the top will reveal spectacular, panoramic views. 

Venturing further north, an itinerary in the area could include a stop in the waterfront city of Boston “Boston is one of my favourite cities in the world – it offers so much,” comments Alastair. “It is home of the Boston Red Sox baseball team, the USS Constitution Museum, and many other cultural experiences. Guests will enjoy walking or cycling around the city, taking in the sights, and sampling the varied cuisine.” 

“Boston is one of my favourite cities in the world – it offers so much”

The picturesque fishing village of Kennebunkport is the first steppingstone into the breath-taking coastline of Maine, which Alastair describes as a ‘hidden gem’. He explains; “People do not necessarily think of going to Maine, but it is one of the most beautiful and secluded parts of the world. Goat Island Lighthouse is an iconic local feature, and one could sample a local clam chowder.” 

“People do not necessarily think of going to Maine, but it is one of the most beautiful and secluded parts of the world. Goat Island Lighthouse is an iconic local feature, and one could sample a local clam chowder.” 

Alastair has fond memories of seeing whales during a yacht delivery he did from Boston to an island called Vinalhaven in Maine. Guests can keep their eyes peeled for the abundant sea life while cruising this stretch of water. 

The most standout stops in Maine include its most populous city Portland, which has a thriving food scene with some fantastic restaurants to try. Boothbay is a classic seaside Maine town where golf enthusiasts will want to play a round at the Boothbay Country Club. Camden is another hotspot for onshore dining options – Natalie’s at the Camden Harbor Inn is a favourite. 

Bar Harbor provides the perfect end to an itinerary in the region. Located on Mount Desert Island, it is a historic town scattered with rustic seafood shacks that offer authentic dining experiences. Guests will also find themselves a stone’s throw from Acadia National Park, one of the nation’s most protected and beloved national parks. When in season, the surrounding waters are great for whale watching or joining one of the many lobster boats to take something back for the chef to serve. 

Contact Alastair to learn more about experiencing this spectacular region.  

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