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There’s no better place to celebrate America’s 250th than onboard a yacht.
This July 4th America will be celebrating its 250th birthday; or its semiquincentennial if you are able to wrap your mouth around that word. The occasion is momentous. The country has grown from a colony filled with ragged dreams and boundless promise to arguably the greatest superpower the world has ever known. From sea to shining sea, Americans will be celebrating their country in forms as diverse and powerful as the country itself. Yacht owners find themselves in a particularly nice position to partake in the festivities. With the big day falling smack in the middle of summer, there is simply no better place to celebrate than onboard. Here are a few things to know and do if you find yourself in one of these boating hotspots on or around the 4th.
Annapolis: A Historic and Highly Patriotic Harbor
Annapolis is home to the U.S. Naval Academy and as such is one of the most patriotic towns in America. It also, of course, has very strong naval and maritime traditions that make it a singular destination for cruisers looking to celebrate the country they love. The city has actually been celebrating the semiquincentennial all year with numerous events and experiences centered around American history. But the celebration will culminate on the 4th of July with a bevy of parades, and of course fireworks honoring the red, white, and blue.
Nantucket: A Flagship Summer Destination for Yacht Owners
While Sag Harbor functions as the Northeast’s most important hub for yachting in the summer months, Nantucket is—in many people’s opinions—the number-one destination. The tony, old-money island caters to yachts and the yachting crowd with the Boat Basin, a full-service marina with 240 slips. Nantucket also features the kinds of restaurants and hotels that large yacht owners will find up to snuff. The island is planning a massive fireworks show for the 4th of July this year, making the island a top destination for the semiquincentennial.
Martha’s Vineyard: Scenic Cruising and Classic Celebrations
Nantucket’s sister island is another favorite among yachtsmen because of its protected harbors and beautiful scenery. The island itself also has the amenities—restaurants, clubs, and hotels—that the yachting crowd will find suitable. This 4th of July there are plenty of celebrations going on, mostly in Edgartown. An all-day festival including a farmer’s market, DJ, and reading of the Declaration of Independence gives way to what is sure to be a rousing fireworks display at night.
Boston Harbor: Iconic Views with Historic Significance
As historic a city as America has to offer, Boston also offers excellent boating during the summer months. Multiple marinas offer superyacht access close to Downtown and the Seaport District. The Tall Ships will also be sailing through in mid-July—always a sight to behold for any boat lover. And if you have any tea onboard, you can always dump it over the side for old time’s sake.
Newport: The Heart of American Yachting Culture
Perhaps no American city can claim deeper yachting roots than Newport, Rhode Island. Its gorgeous and protected harbors offer views of Gilded Age mansions that would have made King George blush. The historic downtown also offers watering holes and seafood restaurants that are as rich with charm as they are with history. Newport also acts as a hub for cruising to Block Island, Narragansett Bay, and other coastal New England anchorages.
Kennebunkport: Coastal Maine Cruising with Timeless Appeal
This small town in Maine has strong patriotic vibes due to its long history as the summertime residence of the Bush family. Besides classic coastal-Maine scenery there are wonderful cruising grounds in the form of Cape Porpoise and other anchorages to the south. Restaurants like Nunan’s Lobster Hut and The Boathouse compete for who has the best lobster roll in town while also offering lively bar scenes.
Sag Harbor: The Hamptons’ Premier Yachting Base
Yachting’s unofficial capital in America during the summer months, Sag Harbor is a true gem. Restaurants both scenic and low-key line the downtown streets, extending into the harbor with the always popular Le Bilboquet. Multiple in-town marinas offer a central location to hit all of the Hamptons and the North Fork. And of course, if you’re in the area, stop by IYG’s headquarters located across the street from the new Faraway hotel.
Charleston: Southern Charm with World-Class Marinas
Known for its colonial charm, Charleston, South Carolina, is also one of America’s best eating cities. This is thanks to a mix of world-class barbecue spots like Lewis Barbecue and Rodney Scott’s and excellent seafood restaurants like Hyman’s Seafood and Peninsula Grill. Charleston Harbor has full provisioning and marina services and the city’s barrier islands—most famously Kiawah—are great for cruising, lounging, and most importantly, golfing.
Mystic: A Historic New England Harbor Worth Discovering
Mystic, Connecticut, is an underrated gem when it comes to cruising locations. The former whaling outpost retains much of its historical charm. The Mystic Aquarium is a hit with kids and adults alike, and the Mystic Seaport Museum is a Mecca for those in love with wooden shipbuilding. Main Street is just a short walk from the museum. Here you’ll find independent boutiques, art galleries, and numerous restaurants with world-class clam chowder.
Watch Hill: A Discreet Coastal Escape for Yacht Owners
You can think of Watch Hill, Rhode Island, as Newport’s calmer, more genteel cousin. Nestled in the southwestern tip of the state next to Connecticut it features beautiful beaches and a highly walkable downtown. Watch Hill is not quite as large-yacht friendly as Newport, and if your boat is over 50 feet you’ll likely have to anchor out. But the laidback vibes, protected anchorages, and beautiful scenery should put this place high on any Northeastern cruiser’s list. Oh, and keep an eye out for Taylor Swift, she calls this small town home in the summer months.
Celebrate the Season on Your Terms
However you choose to celebrate America’s 250th, there is a distinct advantage to doing so from the water. Aboard a yacht, you can move easily between destinations, avoid the crowds, and experience each harbor from a more private and elevated perspective. From the energy of Nantucket and Sag Harbor to the quieter charm of coastal Maine and Rhode Island, the Fourth of July is ultimately about choosing the setting that suits you best and enjoying it entirely on your own terms.
