Sail New York City to Newfoundland

This sample itinerary highlights some of the possible options for the passage from New York City to Newfoundland. The wind and weather conditions at the time will determine the exact route and activities. Here is a selection of potential highlights.

Join the yacht in New York City.

New York City sets the perfect stage for the start of an unforgettable sailing adventure. Few places can match the energy and allure of this iconic city. As you step aboard the yacht, the sense of adventure will already be building. Together, we’ll stow equipment, organize supplies, and prepare for the voyage ahead, setting the tone for what promises to be a once in a lifetime experience.

The yacht will be meticulously stocked with essential spares, provisions, and supplies. Before departure, we’ll conduct comprehensive safety training, including vital drills for extreme scenarios, such as abandoning ship in near-freezing waters. Survival suits will be issued to all crew, ensuring everyone is prepared for any eventuality.

Once ready, we’ll cast off and begin our journey, gliding down the Hudson River past the Statue of Liberty – a breathtaking and symbolic farewell to New York. From there, we’ll possibly anchor overnight beneath the city’s sparkling skyline before continuing our course north, navigating the eastern edge of Manhattan, passing Harlem and Rikers Island, and finally heading into the expansive waters of Long Island Sound.

Long Island Sound

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is renowned for its stunning coastal beauty, rich maritime history, and lively social scene. This historic town, a frequent host of the America’s Cup, is often called the “Sailing Capital of the World” and offers an unparalleled sailing experience with its picturesque harbors and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The town’s historic waterfront is lined with charming colonial architecture, bustling wharves, and an array of shops, galleries, and restaurants. The famed Gilded Age mansions along Bellevue Avenue offer a glimpse into Newport’s opulent past.

Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket

Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are two storied islands off the coast of Massachusetts and quintessential New England sailing destinations. Martha’s Vineyard is known for its laid-back elegance. It’s famous for its pristine sandy beaches, sailboats, brightly painted gingerbread cottages, lighthouses at sunset, farmer’s markets, and the magical Flying Horses carousel.

Nantucket, a bit further out to sea, blends history and sophistication with well-preserved cobblestone streets and historic buildings reflecting its whaling past. The bustling town is very high-end, with boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and art galleries.

Passage to Nova Scotia

Leaving the peaceful islands behind us, things start to get more serious as we head a further 230nm to the southern shores of Nova Scotia, likely making landfall in Lunenburg. Old Town Lunenburg is one of only two urban communities in North America designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Seventy percent of the original colonial buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries still have colorful façades. It’s beautiful, with excellent restaurants, distilleries, breweries, artisans, and unique shops.

Passage to Bras D’Or lake

It’s another 230nm to the stunning Bras d’Or lakes in northeastern Nova Scotia, around another 36-48 hours at sea. This lake, more of an inland sea, is a UNESCO biosphere and a glorious, peaceful expanse of water, surrounded by wooded hills with secluded anchorages and charming towns. Depending on our timings, we could relax here for a day or two.

Across the Gulf of St Lawrence to Newfoundland

It is around 250nm to Newfoundland. The south coast of Newfoundland, with its raw beauty and maritime heritage, offers a variety of captivating places to explore.

Saint Pierre, a small island in the archipelago of Saint Pierre and Miquelon, is our likely port of entry. As the last remnant of France’s once vast territories in North America, it offers a distinct blend of French and Newfoundland cultures. The island’s main town, also named Saint Pierre, is characterized by its charming, colorful buildings, which line narrow streets reminiscent of a small French village. The architecture and the way of life here vividly reflect its French heritage, complete with delightful bistros, patisseries, and wine shops.

From here, we cruise the south coast of Newfoundland with gems such as the Grey River, Deadman’s Cove, Francois, Ramea, and the Bay d’Espoir. Our route will eventually head north to St John’s, the capital.