A place to play, with safe mooring, and loads to see and do.
Block Island is part of the Outer Lands coastal archipelago in New England, USA. It is a popular summer resort destination and a picturesque gem known for its stunning natural beauty. Well known as one of New England’s premier cruising destinations with its protected harbours, pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs and laid-back atmosphere it is the perfect location to take your Maritimo luxury motor yacht.
Located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 25 nm southwest of Newport, Block Island sits just 12 miles off the coast of the State of Rhode Island. The island has an area of just 9.734 square miles with 17 miles of coastline to explore. There are two distinct areas on the island; New Harbor also known as the ‘Great Salt Pond’ on the western side and Old Harbor on the eastern side of the island.
New Harbor is the island’s main boating hub. It was created in 1895 when a channel was dug that opened The Great Salt Pond to the sea. This well protected natural harbor has three large full-service marinas; Payne’s Dock, New Harbor Boat Basin and Champlin’s Marina. There are also 90 town moorings and a 75-acre anchorage for vessels which operates on a first come first served basis.
New Harbor has a more relaxed and casual atmosphere than Old Harbor, with a distinct emphasis on water-based recreation. There are several waterfront restaurants and bars that offer casual dining, drinks and great views of the pond. Many boaters simply hop between their boats and these establishments.
Some of the iconic restaurants include The Oar and Dead Eye Dick’s. The Oar, known for its ‘Oar’s Mudslide’, which is a popular frozen creamy cocktail. A boozy milkshake-like drink made with Bailey’s Irish Cream, Kahlua, vodka, ice and vanilla ice cream. This casual restaurant also specialises in sushi and local seafood. Dead Eye Dick’s offers a more upscale dining experience, and is very much known for its signature swordfish and lobster dishes, that make it a very popular place to dine.
The calm waters of New Harbor are a perfect location for paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming. Block Island also offers world-class opportunities for both inshore and offshore fishing. It’s a renowned destination for sports fishing, particularly for Striped Bass. Other species include Fluke, Mahi-Mahi, Scup, Bluefish, and Tuna.
Located on the eastern side, Old Harbour is the heart of the island’s commercial activity and the main arrival point for ferries. It is the historic area of Block Island offering a more traditional village feel. The main street is lined with Victorian-era buildings containing boutiques shops, art galleries and restaurants, many of which have an emphasis on fresh seafood.
Renting a bike or moped from one of the marinas is the perfect way to explore the rest of the island and the many things it has to offer. There are 17 miles of beaches where you can swim and sunbake, enjoying the soft sands and clear water.
The iconic Mohegan Bluffs is also worth visiting with their towering clay cliffs and breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you are feeling fit you may want to take the 141 wooden steps down to a secluded, rocky beach below.
At the Mohegan Bluffs you will also find The Southeast Light house built in 1875. It is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture among U.S. lighthouses, and was made a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1997. Adding to its uniqueness, in 1993, and due to the severe erosion of the Mohegan Bluffs, the entire 2,000-ton lighthouse was moved 300 feet inland to save it. This remarkable engineering feat took 19 days.
Beyond the coast, the island is characterized by glacial formations, picturesque rolling green hills, and numerous freshwater ponds attracting many nature lovers to the island. Over 28 miles of walking trails crisscross the island, including scenic paths like the Clay Head Preserve (‘The Maze’) and Rodman’s Hollow, offering incredible views and opportunities for birdwatching. Over 40% of the island’s land is preserved as an open space ensuring the wild beauty of the area will remain.
The best time to go to Block Island depends on your priorities, as each season offers a different experience. However, most people would consider the late spring, summer, and early fall to be the prime windows. Summer is the peak season with the warmest temperatures, ranging between high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (25-27°C). It is the perfect time for all water activities, including fishing. The island also hosts many events, live music and family-friendly activities during the summer months.
If you prefer to visit the island when it is a little quieter consider going in late May to early June or in September when the weather is still good, but the crowds are not as large, and access to the facilities, particularly the marina, will be easier.
The weather in the area can be unpredictable with summer thunderstorms, squalls, and fog that can reduce visibility dramatically, so care needs to be taken on the trip to the island. Located in the open water of Block Island Sound the seas around the island can get choppy or rough quickly, especially with strong winds, or wind against tide. The tidal currents can be strong, and can run at 1.5 to 2 knots.
Care also needs to be taken when cruising around Block Island, with a number of dangerous, but charted shoals and rocky ledges, that you need to avoid. Quite obviously, and prior to the construction of the two light houses, North Light (1829) and Southeast Light (1875), the island was notorious for shipwrecks.
The entrance to New Harbor is well marked with buoys and lights. Once inside, the pond offers extensive, well-protected space for anchoring, mooring or docking enabling you to enjoy all the activities the island has to offer.
Block Island is a rare blend of natural beauty, maritime charm, and historic significance. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant boating culture of New Harbor, the quaint shops and historic landmarks of Old Harbor, or the unspoiled beaches and dramatic cliffs, Block Island provides a perfect escape for you and your family aboard your Maritimo luxury motor yacht.
