Setting sail from Duxbury, a charming coastal town known for its picturesque views, you embark on a journey to Dorchester, a vibrant neighborhood nestled within the city of Boston. This route traverses scenic waters, provides ample opportunities for shelter, and highlights some fascinating destinations along the way. Suitable for both novice and experienced boaters, this trip prioritizes safety while promising enjoyable experiences.
1. Departure from Duxbury - Harbor and Marina: Begin your journey at the Duxbury Bay Marina, where you can check vessel status and weather conditions. Duxbury Bay is a scenic spot, with local wildlife and soft sandy beaches. - Notable Landmark: While leaving Duxbury, take a moment to see the historic Duxbury Lighthouse, which marks the entrance to the harbor.
2. Powder Point Bridge - As you head out of Duxbury Bay, watch for the Powder Point Bridge. This iconic bridge connects Duxbury to Powder Point and is a great photo op. Be mindful of the bridge's height clearance and any currents around this area.
3. Kingston Bay - After rounding Duxbury, the route will take you through Kingston Bay. This bay offers excellent shelter if the weather takes a turn. The nearby town of Kingston has a marina where you can dock and explore if time permits. Anchoring is allowed in the bay, but check local regulations to ensure compliance.
4. Scituate Harbor - Continuing north, you may consider a detour into Scituate Harbor. This quaint area is filled with charm and local eateries. The harbor is well-marked with navigation aids. If you need shelter, this is one of the best spots along the route, providing protection from southerly winds. - Navigation Aids: As you navigate into the harbor, look for Scituate Lighthouse, which is a visible landmark and serves as a good guide.
5. The North River - Traversing the narrowing waters of the North River is a charming leg, bursting with views of foliage and wildlife. Be cautious of the shallow depths in some areas, and maintain a lookout for local fishing boats and kayakers sharing these waters.
6. Hingham Bay - As you head toward Hingham Bay, you have numerous inlets and sheltered moorings to choose from. Hingham is known for its historic sites, including the old shipyard. This area also offers amenities such as dining or quick stops.
7. Final stretch towards Dorchester - From Hingham, you'll navigate through the busy waters near Hull, which can be choppy. Here, adherence to buoy markers is crucial as they guide you through potentially crowded channels with ferries and commercial traffic. - Navigational Caution: Be on the lookout for the Peddocks Island as you approach the Boston Harbor area. This small island is a part of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area, offering opportunities for exploration.
As you approach your destination, the Boston skyline becomes a focal point. The waters can be busy, so maintaining a vigilant lookout for commercial vessels and ferries in this area is key. The entrance to Dorchester is traditionally less congested compared to other parts of Boston, allowing for safer maneuvering as you make your way to your final destination.
Before heading out, download reliable boating apps, including Savvy Navvy, which offers route planning and real-time information about tides, weather, and marine traffic.
This route from Duxbury to Dorchester blends the joys of coastal cruising with safety considerations, making it a delightful choice for boaters of all skill levels. Just remember to prepare adequately and enjoy everything this beautiful stretch of Massachusetts coastline offers! Safe travels!