Block Island by Boat
Great Salt Pond (New Harbor) is roughly one square mile in area, or 650 acres. It was opened to the Block Island Sound by means of a dredged channel and designated a Harbor of Refuge by the U.S. Congress in 1894. New Harbor has been a haven for recreational sailors ever since.
Aldo’s Boat Rentals. A number of boating options are available at Champlin’s Marina, off West Side Road. Bumper boats are great fun for children and families.
With Zodiac and pontoon boats you can tour the harbor. In addition, Hobe Cats, paddleboats and kayaks are offered. 12- and 25-foot center console boats are stocked with fishing gear and offered as half- or full-day charters. Call ahead to reserve a watercraft. Free transportation. Champlin’s Marina
401/466-5811
Off the Deep End
How much do you love your boat? Have it detailed inside and out.
call 401/789-5173.
Ruling Passion
This 45-foot trimaran sails out of New Harbor three times a day. The spacious, comfortable craft is Coast Guard certified for 29 passengers, and is operated by an experienced husband-and-wife team. A special offering is wine and cheese served on sunset cruises. Trips depart from the Boat Basin. A great outing for couples and families.
For reservations, stop by Oceans & Ponds
call 401/466-5131
Block Island Maritime Institute
This amazing resource for things nautical will teach you and the kids about sailing, aquaculture, marine science, the Great Salt Pond and more. Experienced sailors can rent a sailboat; for those with less experience (or none at all), charter trips are offered with expert captains. Regularly scheduled are sailing lessons and seminars on a wide range of topics for young and old. Don't miss the Pirate Day. Stop by to see the open-air aquariums, chock full of ocean life. Ocean Ave. 401/466-7938
Kayaking
Touring New Harbor by kayak is one of the best ways to get a feel for Block Island’s inland waterways. The island’s tidal shoreline was created when a channel was cut into a sandy breachway to make a “New Harbor” in Great Salt Pond. The result is a large, delightful waterway ideal for casual kayaking–a great Block Island family activity. Guided kayak trips, timed with the tides, offered by Pond and Beyond (401/742-5460; 466-5467). Aldo’s Boat Rentals is located at Champlin's Marina (401/466-5811).