From the Pacific and Atlantic oceans to the Gulf of Mexico, America boasts the world’s eighth-longest coastline. Throw in an abundance of freshwater sailing in the Great Lakes, along with myriad tropical destinations accessible from US waters, and the United States presents nearly endless cruising opportunities for visiting sailors.
Whether you cross the Atlantic under sail or fly to the States and charter a boat, UK cruisers will find sailing adventure as varied as the country itself. With both major coastlines stretching north and south, there is always year-round cruising at one latitude or another. Starting in the Northeast during summer and working clockwise around the country, here are 10 great destinations to set sail in the New World and beyond.
1 Penobscot Bay, Maine
RECOMMENDED BY Steve Walburn
With its craggy coastline and rich maritime heritage, Maine may be the ultimate US cruising ground. From Casco Bay in the south to the Bay of Fundy in the north, a labyrinth of wilderness islands, picturesque villages, and secluded anchorages await adventurous mariners. Roughly in the middle of that ragged coast are the celebrated waters of Penobscot Bay.
There, Maine’s tradition of wooden-boat building thrives in places like Brooklin Boat Yard and Center Harbor. Pink granite outcrops and evergreen forests line the scenic coast. Gunkhole in a private cove for a day or two, then grab a mooring ball or a slip in any of the Penobscot Bay harbours. Excellent hiking and camping await on islands such as Warren Island State Park. GETTING THERE Peak Maine cruising season is July through August.
The bay’s 20-mile breadth poses little difficulty entering either West or East Penobscot Bay. However, a big tidal range,) and Northpoint Yacht Charters in Rockport ().
