Island Icon – Yachting https://www.yachtingmagazine.com Yachting Magazine’s experts discuss yacht reviews, yachts for sale, chartering destinations, photos, videos, and everything else you would want to know about yachts. Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:41:49 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/favicon-ytg-1.png Island Icon – Yachting https://www.yachtingmagazine.com 32 32 Cruising Hilton Head, South Carolina https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cruising-and-chartering/island-icon-hilton-head/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/?p=70868 This port on the South Carolina coast offers cruisers the chance to hit the links, but there’s also a lot more.

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Hilton Head
Bird-watchers can grab the binoculars from the bridge to scout for white ibis and herons. Cavan/stock.adobe.com

Dubbed “America’s favorite island,” Hilton Head in South Carolina is a family-friendly destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From beachcombing to biking, golfing and wildlife watching, cruisers can enjoy fun in the sun as well as an exceptional culinary scene in this beloved Southern port.

Things To Do

Hilton Head has long been a premier golf destination. The area has more than 26 championship golf courses, including the renowned Sea Pines Resort and links designed by such celebrated names as Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye and Robert Trent Jones Sr.

Beach time is also a given on Hilton Head, with its combination of calm waters and 12 miles of white-sand beaches. Coligny Beach Park is perhaps the most popular, thanks to its amenities: free parking, complimentary Wi-Fi access, chair and umbrella rentals, clean facilities and numerous nearby eateries. On the quieter side, Fish Haul and Mitchelville beaches are considered the best for shelling. Burkes Beach is known for its wildlife, particularly sea turtles and dolphins.

Nature lovers should also head to Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, a vital stop along the Atlantic Flyway that attracts thousands of migratory birds annually and houses a resident menagerie of alligators, deer and large populations of white ibis, herons and other wading birds. Pack sunscreen and insect repellent to explore the island by kayak or by way of its 14 miles of hiking and biking trails.

All told, more than 64 miles of dedicated public pathways and nature trails crisscross Hilton Head. Be sure to pedal over to the red-and-white-striped Harbour Town Lighthouse Museum, the symbol of the island.

Food and Drink

Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks is a family-owned and family-friendly landmark, as prized for its fresh-off-the-boat selections as for its famous hush puppies. For more refined seafood dishes and service with stunning views, reserve a table at Coast in the Sea Pines Resort. Innovative offerings such as habanero shrimp bowls and la plancha dishes complement traditional raw-bar options. For a barbecue fix, stop at One Hot Mama’s BBQ for its signature chocolate barbecue baby back ribs and award-winning chicken wings.

A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant lives up to its name with seafood purloo, shrimp and grits, grilled pimento cheese and a fried green tomato BLT. Nectar Farm Kitchen—which the locals simply call Nectar —is another popular stop for Lowcountry cooking and bountiful breakfasts paired with a highly praised Bloody Mary. Hilton Head Social Bakery serves divine French pastries such as pain au chocolat and fruit tarts, along with quiches, sandwiches, and desserts including eclairs and key lime pie brulee.

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Cruising the Galapagos Islands https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cruising-and-chartering/island-icon-galapagos/ Tue, 24 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/?p=70476 Located off Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are perfect for nature lovers to see the islands' iconic flora and fauna up close.

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Kicker Rock
Kicker Rock is popular for snorkeling with sea turtles, marine iguanas, Galapagos sharks and, on occasion, hammerheads. John Yunker/stock.adobe.com

The Galapagos Islands are a bucket-list destination for nature lovers eager to see the iconic animals of this remote island chain off mainland Ecuador. From the giant tortoises to the blue-footed boobies, the islands’ extraordinary wildlife is worth the extra effort required to cruise here.

Getting There

Cruising regulations are incredibly strict to protect the islands’ one-of-a-kind creatures and ecosystems. International yacht owners must work with a local agency to obtain an autografo, or entry authorization, from the Ecuadorian government. (Start the process two months out.) Cruisers must visit only the islands on the approved itinerary and must carry a local naturalist guide on board. Or consider booking a charter yacht instead. They can handle the administrative hurdles and provisioning so you can simply enjoy this incredible destination.

What To See

Each of the 13 major islands offers a memorable wildlife experience. Giant tortoises are the star on Santa Cruz Island. The Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora safeguards the survival of this beloved species. Scientists there nurture juveniles for several years until they’re large enough to survive in the wild. Up in the highlands, the nearly 30-acre El Chato Tortoise Reserve provides a protected haven for hundreds of adults, which can reach 5 feet in length and more than 550 pounds.

The view of Pinnacle Rock from the summit of Bartolome Island is the most photographed vista in the Galapagos. The waters at the base of the rock are a prime snorkeling spot, where a colony of Galapagos penguins resides. You’re also likely to spot black-tipped sharks and spotted eagle rays.

On San Cristobal Island, Punta Pitt is one of the few spots to see all three species of booby birds found in the Galapagos. The blue-footed booby gets top billing, but you’ll also spy red-footed boobies and Nazca boobies. In the evening, cruise around the island’s eastern side for a gorgeous sunset view of Kicker Rock.

Punta Suarez on Espanola Island is one of the most popular cruising stops in the Galapagos. From April through December, an estimated 35,000 critically endangered waved albatrosses settle in for nesting season. It’s awe-inspiring to witness their elaborate courtship rituals and juveniles learning to fly. Near the rocky landing site, you’ll also spy lava lizards, colorful red-and-green marine iguanas and Galapagos sea lions resting on shore or frolicking in the waters.

If you’re an avid birder, set a course to the western islands of Fernandina and Isabela to spot the flightless cormorant, another iconic species. And keep an eye out for swallow-tailed gulls, Galapagos hawks and—of course—Darwin’s finches throughout the islands.

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Cruising Bodrum, Turkey https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cruising-and-chartering/island-icon-bodrum-turkey/ Mon, 02 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/?p=70085 A gem of the Turquoise Coast on the "Turkish Riviera," Bodrum is filled with all kinds of traditions and cultural history.

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Bodrum, Turkey
Cruising through Bodrum, Turkey, is like time traveling by boat. Monticellllo/Adobe.Stock

Bodrum, located on the “Turkish Riviera,” has long been a magnet for well-heeled European cruisers. This sun-soaked escape on the western Aegean draws in visitors with its turquoise waters, plentiful picturesque beaches, lively fine dining scene and intriguing glimpses of the region’s history.

Attractions

Much of the action in Bodrum happens along the water. This is Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, after all, and its cruising grounds offer lots of little islands and lagoons to explore.

Bodrum’s bountiful beaches are a major draw, with a stretch of sand for every clientele. Camel Beach (aka Kargi Bay), a favorite among locals and visitors for its pure sand and calm waters, is the launching point for kitesurfing and windsurfing expeditions. Families prefer Bitez Beach for its sheltered bay and Blue Flag status, marking it as one of the cleanest beaches in Turkey. Near the expanded Yalikavak Marina, refined beach clubs such as Miya Beach and Xuma Village attract the upscale set with gourmet food, creative drinks and evening entertainment.

Read More: Set a course to see and be seen in Sardinia

Bodrum is far more than just a tourist resort, though. Romans, Persians, Byzantines and Ottomans all have left their mark on this crossroads of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. The location’s rich history is on full display at Bodrum Castle, built in the 15th century by the Knights Hospitaller on a rise overlooking the city’s twin harbors. As you stroll the grounds and garden, stop at the chapel mosque, its glass floor providing a peek at the archaeological excavations below. The grounds also house the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which is home to the world’s oldest excavated shipwreck and other fascinating finds discovered along the Turkish coast. Learn more about Bodrum’s seafaring history at the Bodrum Maritime Museum.

Food and Drink

The restaurant at the Maçakizi Hotel is just one reason the world’s elite favor this glamorous retreat. It has earned a Michelin star for its new take on Aegean cuisine and wide-ranging wine list with an impressive selection of Champagnes.

Orfoz Restaurant, recommended by Michelin and Gault & Millau guides, is known for its great wine list too, along with fresh seafood dishes and stunning bay views. Bahce Restaurant earns raves for its authentic and flavorful Turkish fare as well as its relaxing garden setting. Karnas Vineyards, which focuses on zinfandel wines, serves everything from small bites to a multicourse tasting menu with such dishes as Aegean paella and slow-cooked braised lamb. At Bodrum Müdavim, located along what’s known as Bodrum Bar Street, enjoy a great view of Bodrum Castle as you select from an array of meze (appetizers), ranging from smoked eggplant to grilled artichokes to octopus salad.

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Cruising Sardinia https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cruising-and-chartering/island-icon-sardinia/ Tue, 22 Apr 2025 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/?p=69474 Yacht owners set a course to see and be seen in Sardinia, this international hotspot off Italy’s mainland coast.

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Sardinia
Sardinia offers adventurous cruisers an abundance of natural wonders to discover. Salvatore/Adobe.Stock

A favorite playground of international high society, Sardinia mixes the sophistication of the seaside resort of Porto Cervo with wild and breathtaking landscapes and seascapes. The island’s natural beauty, rich history and delectable dining scene make Sardinia an alluring cruising destination.

Island Attractions

Sardinia’s first national park, La Maddalena Archipelago National Park spans about 50,000 acres of sea and land, and skims 111 miles of coastline. Private boats need a permit to cruise its aquamarine waters and 60-plus islands, many of which look like wind- and current-sculpted granite and schist monuments. Inland, explore the rugged, scenic landscapes of Gennargentu National Park via hiking trail, or via train on the slow tourist routes offered by Trenino Verde.

Sardinia is prized for its picturesque beaches. Spiaggia del Principe (Prince’s Beach), a white-sand crescent near Porto Cervo, frequently ranks among the world’s best beaches. The beaches near Chia are considered especially family-friendly, while those in the Golfo di Oristano and Golfo di Orosei areas are known for their beauty.

Read More: Here are five new options for yacht charters in the Mediterranean Sea

For some scenery and history combined, check out the Castello District in Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital city founded in the 13th century. Wander along the narrow walkways to Bastione di Saint Remy, which offers sweeping views. The four-story Archeological Museum displays an impressive collection of artifacts spanning back to the island’s neolithic roots. Delve deeper into the island’s earliest civilization at the Su Nuraxi nuraghe, a Bronze Age defensive complex near Barumini that’s the island’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.

Food and Drink

As the bull’s-eye in Costa Smeralda’s see-and-be-seen scene, Porto Cervo has exceptional dining options. Italo Bassi Confusion Restaurant, one of the island’s four one-star Michelin restaurants, serves creative haute cuisine. Renato Pedrinelli Restaurant Wine Shop and Bar expertly covers all three bases, known for its pastas, seafood and wine list. For a simpler meal, La Briciola earns raves for its fantastic pizza.

In Cagliari, reservations are recommended at L’Osteria Gioia & Gusto, praised for its seafood dishes and friendly service. ChiaroScuro di Marina Ravarotto is the place to sample such Sardinian specialties as su filindeu (a typically handmade pasta that is filament-thin) and casizolu cheese.

Elsewhere on the island, Su Gologone is the destination for Sardinia’s signature roasted pig. Food and wine connoisseurs head to the commune of Mamoiada, where small vintners grow the native cannonau and granatza grapes. Dine at Su Tapiu for innovative farm-to-table fare and at Abbamele Osteria, earning growing acclaim for its updated Sardinian classics.  

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Cruising Corsica https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cruising-and-chartering/island-icon-corsica/ Wed, 19 Mar 2025 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/?p=68958 The natural wonders of Corsica, the island of Napoleon's birth, win over Mediterranean cruisers year after year.

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Corsica
Corsica has 20 peaks that are 6,500 feet or taller, offering some serious exercise ashore. Seb Hovaguimian/Adobe.Stock

Corsica, the island of Napoleon’s birth, reigns as France’s “Isle of Beauty.” Its mountainous landscapes, breathtaking beaches, noteworthy historical sites, gentle climate and 300 miles of spectacular coastline make Corsica an appealing port of call on any Mediterranean cruising itinerary. 

Natural Attractions

Scandola Reserve, part of Corsica’s only UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the island’s most beautiful spots and accessible only by boat. Its crystalline waters teem with marine life. Osprey and other species nest in the wind-sculpted, red-tinted cliffs.

With 20 peaks topping 6,500 feet, Corsica is a big destination for adventure travelers. For those who prefer paved roads to hiking paths, Route de Bavella through the Regional Natural Park of Corsica offers stunning views of Aiguilles de Bavella, the island’s iconic red granite pinnacles. In northwest Corsica, the D84 road passes such landmarks as Spelunca Gorge and Valdo Niello en route to Col de Vergio, the island’s highest road pass.

Read More: New Mediterranean Charter Options

Corsica’s beaches are a major draw too. Like many beaches in the Haute-Corse region (upper Corsica), Ostriconi Beach along the northern shore has no amenities and frequently rough surf. But the sunsets illuminating its red-rock landscape are awe-inspiring.

Plage de Palombaggia, near Porto Vecchio in southeast Corsica, often ranks among the world’s top beaches. Ringed by umbrella pines and red rocks, this easily accessible mile-long beach is known for its calm azure waters and white powder sand. The 4-mile Calvi Beach (aka La Pinède), in the heart of Calvi town, offers a multitude of amenities and 360-degree views that take in Monte Cinto, Corsica’s highest peak, and the 13th-century Calvi Citadel (worth a visit).

Historical Sites

History buffs should head to Ajaccio, Napoleon’s birthplace and the site of several institutions connected to “the Corsican.” His childhood home, Maison Bonaparte, is now a museum with memorabilia from his early years. The Musee des Beaux-Arts-Palais Fesch, enabled by Napoleon’s conquests and established by his uncle, boasts 18,000 paintings. It’s among the most impressive collections of Italian masterpieces, including works by such luminaries as Titian, Botticelli and Bellini.

Food and Drink

While in Ajaccio, reserve a table in the charming rustic dining room of Restaurant Le 20123, known for its traditional Corsican fare, fresh fish and game selections. At the nearby La Terrasse du Fesch, enjoy upscale fare and lovely views. In Porto Vecchio’s excellent dining scene, Casadelmar—the island’s only two-star Michelin restaurant—serves inventive, market-fresh tasting menus. In Calvi, check out the chic La Signoria, with 40 cheeses and more than 800 wines on offer. 

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Cruising Nova Scotia https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cruising-and-chartering/island-icon-nova-scotia/ Wed, 26 Feb 2025 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/?p=68614 Known as "Canada's Festival Province," Nova Scotia is a natural base for any cruising itinerary in the Canadian Maritimes.

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Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is a cozy, salty province with a rich maritime culture, from lighthouses to lobster rolls. Maurizio De Mattei

There’s much to celebrate in Nova Scotia, known as “Canada’s Festival Province.” With 8,300 miles of coastline, rich culture and history, a fantastic food scene and a packed festival calendar, Nova Scotia rewards cruisers who take time to explore this Canadian Maritimes gem on the Atlantic.

Halifax

The capital of Nova Scotia is as much of a draw for its historic sites as for its sophisticated dining scene and laid-back vibe. The star-shaped Halifax Citadel National Historic Site has dominated the city’s skyline since 1856. From May through October, tour this hilltop fortress with guides in period dress. Time your visit for the firing of the Noon Gun.

Downhill from the Citadel lies the 16-acre Halifax Public Gardens. One of the oldest formal Victorian gardens in North America, it’s a peaceful and colorful respite in the city center.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic chronicles the region’s captivating maritime history, including such headline events as Titanic’s sinking and the devastating 1917 Halifax Harbor explosion.

Naturally, world-class seafood abounds in Halifax. Look for fresh offerings on Saturdays at the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market. The Bicycle Thief puts an Italian spin on its dishes dal mare. The Highwayman Restaurant & Bar pairs seafood-focused Spanish dishes with outstanding cocktails. The Wooden Monkey specializes in inventive, locally sourced fare and local craft beers. And sample a local specialty at the King of Donair: a sandwich version of a döner kebab.

Cape Breton Island

Choose your own adventure to explore the natural beauty of Cape Breton Island. Cruise Bras d’Or Lake, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, to cast a line or look for bald eagles, herons and other wildlife. Drive the 186-mile Cabot Trail scenic highway through the dense forests of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Stop to stroll the Bog Trail to spy tiny pitcher plants and gigantic moose. Or drive a golf ball on the highly regarded Cabot Cliffs and Cabot Links golf courses and enjoy the dramatic ocean views.

Fuel up for explorations at the Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery, a popular destination for breakfast, lunch or coffee. Visit the casual Rusty Anchor for its renowned lobster rolls. For fine dining, Woodroad offers a distinctive, intimate multicourse dinner. And make time to catch a performance of Cape Breton’s world-renowned fiddle music at the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre or The Barn.

Elsewhere on Nova Scotia

Along the south shore, Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse is the most famous of the province’s 160 lighthouses and an emblem of Nova Scotia. Many of the colorful wooden homes of Old Town Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site, date to the early days of this well-preserved British Colonial settlement, founded in 1753.   

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Cruising Port Townsend, Washington https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cruising-and-chartering/island-icon-port-townsend-washington/ Tue, 28 Jan 2025 20:00:00 +0000 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/?p=68142 Port Townsend, Washington, wins over visiting yachtsmen with its historic Victorian architecture and delectable dining scene.

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Hastings Building
The Hastings Building—designed by Elmer H. Fisher—has been a staple of Port Townsend’s downtown commercial district since 1890.

One of only three American seaports on the National Register of Historic Places, Port Townsend, Washington, is a picturesque city whose Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches and top-notch dining make it a richly rewarding stop while cruising the Olympic Peninsula.

Things To Do

Start your exploration of the two dozen Victorian beauties of Port Townsend’s historic district at the Jefferson County Historical Society’s Museum of Art and History on Water Street. The exhibits chronicle the port’s importance during the timber boom and Klondike gold rush, and the resulting architectural legacy. The museum offers guided group walking tours during the summer, private tours year-round, and a self-guided walking tour booklet that visiting cruisers can purchase online. The town also hosts a Victorian Festival each spring.

It’s also possible to explore Port Townsend via the čičməhán Trail, which connects 18 historic sites important to not just the history and culture of the town’s European settlers, but also the S’Klallam people who have lived in the area for hundreds of years.

Among modern-day highlights, just a short walk down Water Street from the museum is the Port Townsend Marine Science Center, which features the creatures of the Salish Sea. There’s no missing Hope, the cherished orca skeleton suspended from the ceiling. On nearby Tyler Street, the Port Townsend Farmers Market is among the largest in the state with up to 90 vendors selling produce, crafts and other items every Saturday from April until mid-December.

Set aside a day to explore the many attractions of Fort Worden Historical State Park. The fort, bunkers, Battery Kinzie and Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum showcase the installation’s importance as part of the “Triangle of Fire” protecting the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Point Wilson Light, built on Admiralty Inlet in 1914, has the highest lens on Puget Sound and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Stroll the park’s broad beaches to collect sea glass and spot eagles, ospreys and other bird species. The park’s grounds also have 11 miles of hiking trails.

Food and Drink

Port Townsend stands out for its stellar dining scene. The Blue Moose Café is a popular breakfast and lunch spot, known for its eggs Benedict and peanut-butter-and-banana pancakes. Finistère is a foodie favorite for such upscale fare as Parisian gnocchi with duck confit and summer truffle, and well-curated wine pairings. The Fountain Café earns raves for fresh, locally sourced seafood and pasta dishes. Alchemy Bistro and Wine Bar is known for creative cocktails and entrees. Café Tenby serves high tea on the weekends, and its delicious scones and clotted cream are available any time.  

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Cruising Santorini in the Greek Isles https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cruising-and-chartering/island-icon-santorini/ Tue, 03 Dec 2024 18:00:27 +0000 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/?p=67399 With its iconic architecture and memorable culture and cuisine, Santorini is a top cruising destination in the Greek Isles.

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Village of Oia
In Oia, cruisers can find these trademark blue-domed churches, stunning sunsets and the Greek Naval Maritime Museum. marchello74/adobe.stock

The iconic architecture and stunning sunsets on the Greek isle of Santorini (officially known as Thera) have driven the volcanic island’s explosion in tourism (no pun intended). But there’s more for cruisers to explore on this gem located in the southern Aegean Sea. 

Oia

When people think of Santorini, they envision the picturesque cliffside village of Oia (pronounced EE-yah). Its iconic blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings, and breathtaking sunset views over the caldera are the main reasons more than 2 million travelers visit the island each year. Along its pedestrian main street, known as the Marble Walkway, you’ll find upscale boutiques and art galleries such as Dimitris Kolioussis’ visually arresting Icon Painting Workshop and Marmarini, which sells delicate jewelry, scarves and other handcrafted creations.

For a next-level sunset experience, book a rooftop table at the refined Strogili Restaurant. Leave room for the signature dessert, a deliciously rich chocolate, caramel and peanut brownie known as “illusion volcanic rocks.” You can work it off the next day on the popular 6.5-mile hike along the cliff from Oia to Fira. Be sure to pack water and sunscreen.

Kamari

The main beach destination on Santorini is Kamari. The promenade bordering the volcanic black-sand beach is lined with restaurants such as Taverna Saliveros, a family place run by an attentive matriarch serving authentic Greek fare like dolmades and tomato fritters. A few steps down, Prospect Books & Art sells an impressive variety of distinctive souvenirs. And around the corner, Erotokritos Cretan Bakery is a great provisioning stop for grab-and-go sandwiches and delicious pastries, including portokalopita (orange cake with syrup).

Akrotiri

Known as “Greece’s Pompeii,” the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri was buried in ash from a cataclysmic volcanic eruption in the 16th century B.C. The site remained lost until the 1860s and was thought to have inspired the Atlantis fable. Excavations begun in 1967 have revealed surprisingly well-preserved buildings, frescoes and pottery that reflect the prosperity of this important Aegean port city on the far southwest tip of Santorini. Museum signage is limited, so consider hiring a tour guide who can bring these fascinating ruins to life.

Santo Wines

Santo Wines is a collective of 1,200 members striving to preserve Santorini’s distinctive approach to winemaking. Cruisers can visit Santo’s winery in Pyrgos to learn how cultivators grow their native Assyrtiko grapes and other varietals by training their vines into kouloura, spiral baskets that shield the grapes from scorching sun and strong winds. Reserve an evening time slot for dinner or a wine tasting on Santo’s spacious terrace for a stunning sunset view over the caldera.  

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Destination Montauk: A Seaside Gem for Cruising Enthusiasts https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cruising-and-chartering/island-icon-montauk/ Tue, 05 Nov 2024 20:00:00 +0000 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/?p=66948 Montauk's iconic lighthouse, world-class fishing and stunning beaches are the start of an unforgettable cruising experience.

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Montauk, New York
Montauk, New York—a rock’s throw from Block Island, Rhode Island—is a boating oasis on the Atlantic. littleny/adobe.stock

It’s easy to see why Montauk is a popular port of call for cruising enthusiasts each summer. This waypoint’s stunning Atlantic Ocean views, exceptional fishing, lovely beaches and relaxed vibe combine for a great start to any stop at the charming town known as “The End.”

Attractions

President George Washington commissioned the iconic Montauk Point Lighthouse in 1792 as one of the United States’ first public-works projects. The 111-foot-tall lighthouse stands at the easternmost tip of Long Island, hence Montauk’s nickname of “The End.” Learn about the history of this National Historic Landmark in the museum at the base of the lighthouse. It’s worth the climb up the 137 steps to the top to see the newly restored Fresnel lens as well as the breathtaking 360-degree views.

The largest fishing port in New York state, Montauk is a magnet for sport fishing, especially between May and October, and during the spring and fall runs. Striped bass is considered the top prize, but the bountiful waters are also home to marlin, tuna, sharks, bluefish, cod, flounder and other species. There is a wealth of fishing charters available, and Montauk is known as the surf-casting capital of the world. North Bar in Montauk Point State Park as well as the area known as the North Side are considered prime spots.

Read More: Cruising Block Island

If you favor a surfboard over surf-casting, head to Ditch Plains Beach for some of the East Coast’s best surfing. However, only locals can park there, so visitors typically park at nearby Shadmoor State Park, where the sweeping views from the bluff, especially at sunrise, are considered among the most beautiful in Montauk. Hither Hills State Park is popular among younger families, thanks to its 2-mile-long sandy beach, ample parking, lifeguard on duty, and bathhouse and playground nearby.

Dining Scene

Start the day at Naturally Good Foods and Cafe, known for its healthy and organic breakfast and lunch fare, as well as its smoothies. For a casual lunch or dinner, grab a table on the patio or lawn at Inlet Seafood for fantastic views (especially at sunset), and seafood and sushi fresh off the boats of the six fishermen who own the restaurant. This bustling venue doesn’t take reservations, so enjoy a cocktail and the occasional live music while waiting to order such popular fare as tuna tartare and lobster sushi. The enticing menu at Harvest on Fort Pond draws from local seafood and homegrown produce, with dishes including grilled pizza, pasta, steak and seafood. You can reserve an inside table a week ahead of time, while outside tables are walk-up only. Wrap up the day as many locals do with a sundowner at The Montauket, a beloved institution since the 1920s, known as “The Hill” due to its elevated perch for watching the sunset over Gardiner’s Island and Fort Pond Bay.  

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Cruising and Exploring Newport, Rhode Island https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cruising-and-chartering/island-icon-newport-rhode-island/ Thu, 10 Oct 2024 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.yachtingmagazine.com/?p=66529 Discover Newport’s sailing legacy, historic Cliff Walk, grand mansions and it vibrant dining scene on your next New England cruise.

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Breakers mansion
The 70-room Breakers mansion was built for the family of Cornelius Vanderbilt II. Started in 1893, construction took two years. Gavin Ashworth

Many boating enthusiasts consider Newport, Rhode Island, to be the yachting capital of the United States. The city’s storied sailing history, Gilded Age mansions, annual boat show, and lively dining and bar scene make it a requisite port of call on any New England cruising itinerary.

Local Attractions

The 3.5-mile Cliff Walk hugs the town’s eastern shoreline from Easton’s Beach to Bailey’s Beach. This National Recreational Trail offers unparalleled views of the water and the jaw-dropping Newport mansions, the opulent “summer cottages” built by Gilded Age titans of industry. Together, the mansions form an exquisite architectural sampler, ranging from the High Victorian Chateau-sur-Mer to Rosecliff, modeled after the garden retreat at Versailles.

The grandest among the mansions is The Breakers, a 70-room Italian-style palazzo built by eminent architect Richard Morris Hunt for Cornelius Vanderbilt II and his family. Take in the great hall, with its 50-foot-high ceiling; the Baccarat crystal chandeliers in the dining room; and the ocean vistas from the vast loggia. The daily Beneath The Breakers Tour provides an inside look at the mansion’s groundbreaking technology for its time.

Hunt also designed the nearby Marble House for William Vanderbilt as a 39th birthday present for his wife, Alva. In her day, her “temple to the arts” was the hub of Newport society. Today, its Chinese Tea House draws in guests for afternoon tea on weekends and for sunrise concerts during the Newport Classical Music Festival.

Marble House was also one of the childhood homes of Harold Vanderbilt, a legendary yachtsman who is among the 123 inductees of the National Sailing Hall of Fame. Both that honor roll and the America’s Cup Hall of Fame are part of The Sailing Museum, which opened in May 2022 in what served as the press headquarters for the America’s Cup from 1958 to 1983. Visitors select a virtual boat for their interactive cruise through the museum’s six themed areas, ranging from “wind and water” to “teamwork” to “competition.” Nearby, the International Tennis Hall of Fame chronicles that sport’s history since the 12th century.

Restaurants and Bars

Kick back in a white Adirondack chair on the lawn of the Castle Hill Inn and enjoy a cocktail along with panoramic views of Newport Harbor. It’s a summer tradition in Newport. The Clarke Cooke House on Bannister’s Wharf is a historic hangout for cruisers. Jackets are required for men in its porch dining room, which offers an exceptional wine list and a refined menu featuring seafood. For a more casual meal, visit its adjoining venues: Summer Sushi, The Bistro and The Candy Store.

Giusto has earned raves for its cutting-edge Italian fare. Cru Cafe is a solid bet for breakfast or a light lunch before a sail.  

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