

Departure Point: Tisbury, Massachusetts, United States (Latitude: 41.4548, Longitude: -70.6243)
Get ready to embark on a beautiful maritime adventure as you set sail from Tisbury, a charming town located on Martha's Vineyard. Your destination is Providence, Rhode Island, a vibrant city known for its rich history and engaging culture. This journey will take you through spectacular waters, and while it’s filled with delightful sights, it also demands diligent navigation to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
The approximate distance from Tisbury to Providence is around 31 nautical miles. The journey will take you across Vineyard Sound, past the Elizabeth Islands, through the West Passage of Narragansett Bay, and ultimately into Providence. It's crucial to keep an eye on weather forecasts and navigational conditions, as the waters can be unpredictable.
Navigating Hazards:
1. Vineyard Haven: - Distance from Tisbury: 3 nautical miles. - Attractions: A quaint harbor town offering dining, shopping, and access to beautiful beaches. - Shelter: The calm harbor provides excellent shelter from winds, allowing you to take a break if needed.
2. Egremont Channel: - Navigational Note: As you approach the channel, pay attention to the buoys marking the navigable path. It’s a scenic area with rich wildlife, perfect for a relaxing day if the weather holds.
3. Cuttyhunk Island: - Distance from Tisbury: 9 nautical miles. - Attractions: Explore the island's trails and scenic vistas. A great spot for photography and nature lovers. - Shelter: Tranquil harbor ideal for anchoring if weather conditions worsen.
4. West Passage, Narragansett Bay: - Navigational Note: As you enter Narragansett Bay, you will encounter key navigational aids such as the Prudence Island Lighthouse. Keep an eye on the chart as shallow areas can be tricky.
5. Newport: - Distance from Providence: 15 nautical miles. - Attractions: Renowned for its maritime history and beautiful waterfront. Stop here for fine dining and historical tours. - Shelter: The harbors of Newport offer excellent docking options and protection from prevailing winds.
Leg 1: Tisbury to Vineyard Haven
Leg 2: Vineyard Haven to Cuttyhunk
Leg 3: Cuttyhunk through the Elizabeth Islands & into Narragansett Bay
Leg 4: Narragansett Bay to Providence
Before you head out, I recommend downloading several useful boating apps to streamline your navigation and safety protocols. Among them, Savvy Navvy, which is excellent for route planning and live weather updates, along with other notable apps such as Navionics and NOAA Marine Weather.
This route from Tisbury to Providence offers a fabulous balance of scenic beauty and safe harbors while accommodating varying levels of boating experience. With good planning and respect for navigational aids and local regulations, your journey will be one to remember. Happy sailing!