Sailing, fishing, kayaking, whale watching, and paddle boarding are among the top Nantucket activities on the water. With rolling moors, breathtaking beaches, kettle ponds, and abundant salt marshes, the beauty of Nantucket radiates throughout this island paradise. Numerous nature trails, bike paths, and wide swaths of sandy shoreline entice visitors throughout the year.
But, when the weather warms, a desire to get out on the water to get a different perspective of the island entices many to grab their gear and find the nearest pond or beach. The idea of a peaceful sail among the ocean waves or a gentle paddle drifting aimlessly on a pond takes on a special appeal.
Nantucket Boat Tours
Taking a tour by boat offers the casual visitor a chance to explore the island with a knowledgeable guide. Nantucket by Water offers everything from a leisurely tour around the harbor to a more adventurous expedition to a working oyster farm. This family-owned outfitter prides itself on creating unique tours that appeal to the whole family. Spend an hour or two on a scheduled tour or book a private charter.
Nantucket’s oldest sailing charter, the Endeavor, offers day sails and sunset trips aboard a US Coast Guard-certified vessel. Captain Jim has been sailing the pristine waters around the island for more than 40 years and resides on the island year-round with his wife and children. When you sail aboard the Endeavor, you’ll be introduced to the island’s maritime history, the captain’s vast knowledge of boat-building, and perhaps be offered a chance to take the helm.
Paddleboard and Kayaking
Consider the differences when choosing whether to opt for a kayak or a paddleboard to get out on the water. Paddleboarding requires a stand-up paddleboard (SUP), a long, wide board on which you balance standing up (kneeling or sitting is also acceptable). You move through the water by using a single-blade paddle.
In a kayak, on the other hand, you sit in a low-to-the-water, canoe-like craft. Facing forward, with legs stretched out in front, you use a double-bladed paddle to course through the water as you rotate your torso from side to side. Regardless, each one has a learning curve to maneuver smoothly through the water.
Where to Paddle
While beginners to kayaking or paddleboarding should stick to the still and sheltered waters of the kettle ponds, experienced paddlers often choose to sea kayak along the island’s pristine shores. But tides and sea conditions can change rapidly, so be forewarned if you are new to the sport. No matter where you venture out onto the water, Nantucket paddle sports offer a great way to appreciate the island’s beauty. These are but a few of our favorite spots for a leisurely paddle.
- Nantucket Harbor
- Coatue
- Coskata Pond
- Long Pond
- Hummock Pond
- Sesachacha Pond
Equipment and Guided Tours
While bringing your own equipment to the island is possible, some find it more convenient to rent gear once they reach Nantucket. Sea Nantucket Paddle Sports offer single and double kayaks, SUPs, tours, and delivery. Similarly, Nantucket Kayak Rentals, Tidal Creeks Outfitters, and Nantucket Community Sailing rent equipment by the hour and the week.
So, the next time you’re visiting us on Nantucket, plan an hour or two to enjoy some of the top Nantucket activities on the water. We can’t think of a better way to idle away a morning or afternoon here on our island paradise.
