There is a particular kind of summer happiness that seems to exist only on the water. The shimmer of sunlight across the surface, the easy rhythm of a day measured by tides instead of appointments and the carefree feeling of the wind in your hair help you forget about deadlines and schedules for a short time. This expensive pastime has traditionally carried an aura of exclusivity, but as travelers and daytrippers seek tailored and unique experiences, the option to rent has broadened access, allowing more of us to enjoy the escape and beautiful scenery that comes with yachting without the responsibility of ownership. Here are three ways you can squeak in an afternoon of yachting before summer’s end.
Dock and Dine
This summer, a new Dock and Dine experience kicked off in the Hamptons. Saylor Beach House in Greenport, NY, has partnered with Yacht Hampton in Sag Harbor, NY, to offer a scenic 40-minute yachting experience. Depart Sag Harbor on a captained yacht with a private stewardess to tootle around the bays between the north and south forks. Boaters get white glove treatment while aboard and can upgrade to a premium vessel for an even more elevated experience. The captain docks at Claudio’s Marina on the North Fork so you can dine at Saylor Beach House, the new Mediterranean-style restaurant serving elevated coastal fare and sun-centric cocktails with the effortless luxury of a European beach club. Try the catch of the day or the mezze board for lighter fare. “Saylor Beach House was made for easy afternoons and lingering sunsets by the water,” said Celeste Fierro, the restaurant’s owner. “Partnering with Yacht Hampton means guests can step off the boat with no-fuss escape, just great food, relaxed company and a little sunset therapy.” The service runs Thursday through Sunday, with departures from Sag Harbor at the Yacht Hampton Boating Club & Marina between noon and 4 p.m., and return service departs Claudio’s Marina at 3 or 4 p.m. upon request. Cost is $75 per person and reservations are required. Dining is not included in the price.
Sunset Cruise
For a few years now, Delamar Greenwich Harbor has offered an intimate and private sunset cruise experience out of Greenwich Harbor and it continues to be a popular choice among guests. So popular, in fact, that they have partnered with Barton & Gray to expand their yachting experience options. Choose from one- or two-hour, evening or sunset cruises on The Whisper for a special occasion like an anniversary or maybe even to pop the question. Or choose an experience in partnership with Barton & Gray Mariners Club for large-group outings. When you dock overnight at Delamar Greenwich Harbor, you’ll have access to the hotel’s spa, fitness center and 24-hour coffee service. You can also book reservations at l’escale restaurant, which has an award-winning wine list that draws diners from around the region. “At Delamar Greenwich Harbor, we’re seeing more guests looking for experiences that are just as memorable as the destination itself,” says Christoph Duerrbeck, General Manager of Delamar Greenwich Harbor. “Having lived in New York City for many years, I recently experienced a Barton & Gray cruise with my family while celebrating my niece’s birthday, and it reminded me how special our waterfront really is. Taking in the beautiful Connecticut coastline alongside the iconic New York City skyline from the water is a perspective few people get to experience, making it a truly unique addition to a stay at Delamar.”
History Meets Luxury
The teak in the hull of The Blue Peter was brought to England from Thailand in 1870. The gorgeous Italian-inspired yacht was launched in 1930, but her first owner, Desmond Molins, decided to lengthen his beloved boat rather than upgrading, so he had it made 10 feet longer than its original iteration. Current owner Mat Barker of Nantucket, MA, bought her in 1999 after she passed through the hands of a few Italian owners. In 2012 he began chartering her. Now you can customize your own charter with The Blue Peter for a day of yachting with Captain Mat. The starting price is about $2,000 for a morning sail, with custom times and upgrades like mimosas or a meal for a completely custom luxury experience.
Whether you decide to yacht as a couple or with friends, set sail at first light or into the sunset, or dock to dine al fresco, a day on the water offers the kind of easy luxury that makes summer feel just a little more memorable.
