Skip to main content
Cruising Guide

Mid-Atlantic Marina Guide

A comprehensive guide to marinas across New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia — covering amenities, nearby accommodations, supply stores, and cruising tips for recreational boaters.

31
Marinas Listed
5
States Covered
11,303
Miles of Coastline
Apr–Nov
Cruising Season

Cruising the Mid-Atlantic by Boat

The Mid-Atlantic is one of the most diverse cruising regions in the United States. From the skyscrapers of Manhattan and the beaches of the Hamptons to the Chesapeake Bay — the largest estuary in North America — and the historic waters of Hampton Roads, the region offers extraordinary variety for recreational boaters.

This guide covers 31 marinas across 5 states, selected for their quality of facilities, transient-friendliness, and relevance to recreational cruisers. For each marina, we provide key details including slip counts, amenities, nearby hotels, and marine supply stores. The guide is organized by state, running north to south from New York to Virginia.

The cruising season runs from April through November, roughly two months longer than New England. The Chesapeake & Delaware Canal connects the upper Chesapeake Bay to Delaware Bay, creating a protected inside route between the two major waterways. The ICW runs through the region, connecting New York Harbor to the Carolinas via New Jersey’s back bays, the C&D Canal, the Chesapeake, and the Virginia Cut.

Booking tip: Most Mid-Atlantic marinas accept reservations through the Dockwa platform. Create an account before your trip to streamline the booking process.

New York

NY · 2,625 mi coastline

New York’s boating waters span from the skyscrapers of Manhattan to the vineyards of the North Fork, the legendary surf of Montauk, and the wide reaches of the Hudson River. Long Island Sound, the South Shore bays, and New York Harbor together make this one of the most diverse cruising grounds on the East Coast.

North Cove Marina at Brookfield Place

New York (Manhattan), NY

Visit website

Manhattan’s premier mega-yacht marina, operated by IGY, in the shadow of the World Trade Center. Renovated in 2016 with floating docks and deep-water access (16 ft dockside). Steps from Brookfield Place’s luxury retail, Michelin-starred dining, and the Oculus transit hub. Concierge service arranges restaurants, Broadway tickets, and provisioning.

Slips

32 slips (8 mega-yacht berths)

Max LOA

175 ft

Nearby Hotel

Conrad New York Downtown (0.1 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine (online/delivery) (N/A)

30/50/100 amp (480V available)Wi-Fi24-hr securityDockside conciergePet-friendlySailing schoolLiveaboard permitted

Safe Harbor Montauk Yacht Club

Montauk, NY

Visit website

The Hamptons’ largest marina and a luxury seaside resort spanning 16 acres on Lake Montauk. Accommodates everything from day boats to 300-foot superyachts. Named a top-ten marina destination in North America by Yachting Magazine. The 2026 season introduces Elemis Spa, a fleet of X Shore electric boats, and floating wellness cabanas.

Slips

232 slips

Max LOA

300 ft

Nearby Hotel

Montauk Yacht Club Resort (on-site) (On-site)

Supply Store

West Marine Montauk (3 mi)

Shore powerWi-FiPump-out3 pools (1 indoor)Fitness centerPadel & tennis courtsPrivate beachConciergeShuttle to Montauk VillageEV charging

Sag Harbor Yacht Club

Sag Harbor, NY

Visit website

Historic yacht club established in 1899, welcoming all transient boaters (no club affiliation required). Beautifully maintained fixed docks directly across from Sag Harbor Village’s Main Street shops, galleries, and restaurants. Reservations recommended for summer weekends. New York’s second most popular boating destination.

Slips

Fixed docks (transient dockage)

Max LOA

200 ft

Nearby Hotel

American Hotel (0.2 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine Southampton (10 mi)

Shore powerWaterFuel (gas & diesel)Pump-out (seasonal boat)ShowersClubhouse loungeVHF Ch 09

Mitchell Park Marina

Greenport, NY

Visit website

Municipal marina in the heart of Greenport Village on Long Island’s North Fork. Transient-only — no seasonal slips — with reservations via Dockwa. Walking distance to wine-tasting rooms, the Greenport Carousel, restaurants, and the ferry to Shelter Island. An excellent home base for exploring the Peconic Bay estuary.

Slips

60 floating slips + 640 ft standing pier

Max LOA

250 ft (pier) / 80 ft (slips)

Nearby Hotel

The Menhaden Hotel (0.1 mi)

Supply Store

Greenport Marine (S.T. Preston & Son) (0.2 mi)

Pump-out ($5/tank)30/50/100 amp (480V 3-phase on pier)Wi-FiShowersHistoric carouselVHF Ch 11

Safe Harbor Capri Marina

Port Washington, NY

Visit website

Full-service marina on Manhasset Bay at the western end of Long Island Sound, about 15 nautical miles from Stamford, CT. Part of the Safe Harbor network with consistent service quality. Quick access to Long Island Sound’s North Shore harbors and a short drive to Manhattan via the LIRR.

Slips

250 slips

Max LOA

120 ft

Nearby Hotel

Residence Inn Port Washington (1 mi)

Supply Store

Port Supply (on-site ship store) (On-site)

Fuel dockPump-out30/50/100 ampWi-FiShip storeShowersLaundryFull-service boatyard

Safe Harbor Haverstraw

West Haverstraw, NY

Visit website

One of the largest marinas on the Hudson River, spread across 60 tree-lined acres on Haverstraw Bay at the river’s widest point. Resort-style atmosphere with an Olympic-size pool and waterfront restaurant. Sheltered deep-water cove is ideal for large sailboats. Accessible from NYC, New Jersey, and the Hudson Valley.

Slips

900+ slips

Max LOA

110 ft

Nearby Hotel

Holiday Inn Express Stony Point (3 mi)

Supply Store

Safe Harbor Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dockPump-out30/50 ampCable TVOlympic-size poolRestaurant (Hudson Water Club)PlaygroundPicnic areasShip storeShowersLaundry

Westerly Marina

Ossining, NY

Visit website

Family-owned since 1959, Westerly Marina sits on over five acres of Hudson River waterfront in Ossining, between red buoys #16 and #18. One of the largest parts inventories on the Hudson. Three generations of the DeMarchis family maintain a friendly, full-service operation with certified technicians and extensive indoor storage.

Slips

180 slips (10 transient)

Max LOA

100 ft

Nearby Hotel

DoubleTree by Hilton Tarrytown (5 mi)

Supply Store

Westerly Marine Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel (gas & diesel)Pump-out30/50 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryPicnic area with grillsShip storeFull-service repair shop24-hr river webcam

Chelsea Piers Marina

New York (Manhattan), NY

Visit website

Located on the Hudson River as part of the Chelsea Piers Sports & Entertainment Complex. Seasonal and transient dockage with direct access to Manhattan’s West Side, the High Line, Chelsea Market, and Hudson River Park. The adjacent complex offers golf, rock climbing, bowling, and fitness facilities.

Slips

~125 slips

Max LOA

200 ft

Nearby Hotel

The Standard, High Line (0.3 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine (online/delivery) (N/A)

Shore powerWaterWi-FiShowersAdjacent sports complex (golf, bowling, fitness)High Line access

Marine Supply & Chandlery — New York

West MarineMultiple locations (Montauk, Freeport, Huntington, Riverhead)

National marine supply chain with several Long Island locations. Carries electronics, safety equipment, maintenance supplies, paint, hardware, and apparel.

Historic ship chandlery in Greenport Village, in continuous operation since 1880. Marine hardware, nautical gifts, charts, and boating supplies. A must-visit for North Fork cruisers.

New Jersey

NJ · 1,792 mi coastline

New Jersey’s 130 miles of Atlantic coastline and extensive back-bay systems from Sandy Hook to Cape May offer outstanding boating variety. The state sits between two major cruising grounds — New York Harbor to the north and Delaware Bay to the south — making it a natural waypoint for boats transiting the coast or the ICW.

Liberty Landing Marina

Jersey City, NJ

Visit website

The largest marina in New York Harbor, located in Liberty State Park with unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. A Suntex Marina with 24-hour fueling, two waterfront restaurants (Maritime Parc and Liberty House), and a ferry service to Manhattan. Winner of the 2024 Boaters’ Choice Award.

Slips

520 deep-water slips

Max LOA

200 ft

Nearby Hotel

Hyatt Regency Jersey City (1 mi)

Supply Store

Liberty Landing Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dock (24-hr)30–200 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryShip storeCaptain’s Lounge2 on-site restaurantsFerry to Manhattan60-ton TraveliftDock & dine (2-hr complimentary)

Atlantic Highlands Municipal Marina

Atlantic Highlands, NJ

Visit website

Well-protected municipal marina on the Navesink River’s eastern shore near Sandy Hook Bay. Walking distance to the First Avenue business district with restaurants, marine supply, and convenience stores. The Seastreak ferry to Manhattan departs nearby, making this a popular base for boaters who also commute to NYC.

Slips

236 slips

Max LOA

130 ft

Nearby Hotel

Blue Bay Inn (0.5 mi)

Supply Store

Sailors’ Delight Marine (0.5 mi)

Fuel dock (gas & diesel)Pump-out30/50 ampShip storeShowersLaundryPublic fishing pierBoat ramp24-hr security

Clarks Landing Yacht Club & Marina

Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

Visit website

Full-service marina on the Manasquan River, only five minutes from the ocean and walking distance to Point Pleasant Beach’s boardwalk, Jenkinson’s amusement park, and over a dozen bars and restaurants. Most competitive slip pricing and fuel prices on the Manasquan River. Recognized as a NJ Clean Marina.

Slips

Slips from 21 to 70 ft

Max LOA

70 ft

Nearby Hotel

White Sands Oceanfront Resort & Spa (1.2 mi)

Supply Store

Clarks Landing Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dock (ValvTect gas & diesel)Ship store30/50 ampWi-FiShowersGated docksDockside Bar & GrillFree bike cruisersFull-service repair

Bayview Harbor

Barnegat Light, NJ

Visit website

Award-winning full-service marina on Long Beach Island, conveniently located halfway between New York Harbor and Cape May. Protected harbor close to the easily accessible Barnegat Inlet. North basin completely rebuilt in 2022. Walking distance to Viking Village fishing fleet, restaurants, and shops. On-site vacation rental (The Loft) and B&B (Sand Castle).

Slips

150 floating docks

Max LOA

120 ft

Nearby Hotel

The Loft at Bayview Harbor (on-site) (On-site)

Supply Store

Bayview Harbor Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel (gas & diesel)Pump-out30/50/100 ampShip store40-ton TraveliftMechanical & hull servicesWinter storage

South Jersey Marina

Cape May, NJ

Visit website

Cape May’s premier full-service marina, easily accessible from the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay, and the ICW. Home to southern New Jersey’s largest charter and party boat fleet and host to major fishing tournaments including the MidAtlantic Tournament. State-of-the-art floating piers with deep-water access and spa-like bathhouse facilities.

Slips

75 slips (floating piers)

Max LOA

140 ft

Nearby Hotel

Congress Hall (2 mi)

Supply Store

South Jersey Marina Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

High-speed in-slip fuelingPump-out30/50/100 ampWi-FiShip storeOn-site restaurant (Brine BYOB)Boutique (Fathoms)ConciergeComplimentary shuttleShowersLaundry

Utsch’s Marina

Cape May, NJ

Visit website

A Cape May institution for sport fishermen, Utsch’s has been serving boaters in Cape May Harbor for decades. Transient and seasonal dockage in a protected location on the Cape May Canal. Well-positioned for boats entering or exiting Delaware Bay via the Cape May Canal. Walking distance to the Victorian district’s restaurants and attractions.

Slips

~80 slips + alongside dockage

Max LOA

~100 ft

Nearby Hotel

Montreal Beach Resort (1.5 mi)

Supply Store

Cape May Bait & Tackle (0.5 mi)

Fuel (gas & diesel)30/50 ampWaterIceShowersLaundryFish-cleaning stations

Marine Supply & Chandlery — New Jersey

Sailors’ Delight MarineAtlantic Highlands

Family-owned marine supply store near the Atlantic Highlands Municipal Marina. Carries boating hardware, fishing tackle, safety equipment, and maintenance supplies.

West MarineMultiple locations (Brick, Somers Point, Toms River)

National marine supply chain with multiple New Jersey Shore locations. Full range of electronics, safety gear, maintenance supplies, and boating apparel.

Delaware

DE · 381 mi coastline

Delaware’s compact coastline belies its strategic importance: the C&D Canal connects the Chesapeake Bay to Delaware Bay, and Lewes and Rehoboth Beach are popular summer destinations. Delaware Bay’s western shore and the Indian River Inlet provide access to excellent offshore fishing grounds.

Safe Harbor Schaefer’s Canal House

Chesapeake City, DE

Visit website

Landmark marina and restaurant on the C&D Canal, the critical waterway linking the Chesapeake Bay to Delaware Bay and the Atlantic. A natural stopover for boats transiting north–south along the East Coast. The restaurant, dating to 1907, serves fresh seafood overlooking the canal. Part of the Safe Harbor network.

Slips

~80 slips + alongside dockage

Max LOA

~150 ft

Nearby Hotel

Inn at the Canal (0.2 mi)

Supply Store

Schaefer’s Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel (gas & diesel)Pump-out30/50/100 ampWi-FiRestaurantShip storePoolShowersLaundryCourtesy bicycles

Delaware City Marina

Delaware City, DE

Visit website

Quiet, well-protected marina at the southern end of the C&D Canal on the Delaware River. A short walk to the charming town of Delaware City and the ferry to Fort Delaware State Park on Pea Patch Island. Popular stopover for boats transiting between the Chesapeake and the Delaware.

Slips

~50 slips + alongside dockage

Max LOA

~100 ft

Nearby Hotel

Canalside Inn (0.3 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine Wilmington (15 mi)

30/50 ampWaterPump-outShowersWi-FiRestaurant accessFort Delaware ferry

Lewes Harbor Marina

Lewes, DE

Visit website

Located in the harbor of historic Lewes, at the mouth of Delaware Bay where the Lewes and Rehoboth Canal meets the ocean. Easy walking distance to downtown Lewes’s restaurants, shops, and museums. The Cape May–Lewes Ferry terminal is nearby for connections to Cape May, NJ.

Slips

~60 slips

Max LOA

~80 ft

Nearby Hotel

Hotel & Marina at Lewes (adjacent) (0.1 mi)

Supply Store

Lewes Harbour Marine (0.2 mi)

Fuel (gas & diesel)30/50 ampPump-outShowersLaundryWi-FiFish-cleaning station

Indian River Marina

Rehoboth Beach, DE

Visit website

Delaware’s largest marina, operated by the Delaware Division of Parks & Recreation at Indian River Inlet between Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach. Gateway to premier offshore fishing in the Mid-Atlantic (tuna, marlin, mahi-mahi). Home to Delaware’s largest charter fishing fleet. State-managed with competitive rates.

Slips

320+ slips

Max LOA

~60 ft

Nearby Hotel

Atlantic Sands Hotel (3 mi)

Supply Store

Indian River Marina Bait & Tackle (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dockPump-out30/50 ampBait & tackle shopRestaurantFish-cleaning stationsBoat rampCharter fleet

Marine Supply & Chandlery — Delaware

Full-service marine supply near Lewes Harbor. Carries hardware, electronics, fishing gear, and maintenance supplies for recreational boaters.

West MarineWilmington

National marine supply chain with a Wilmington area location. Electronics, safety equipment, maintenance supplies, and apparel.

Maryland

MD · 3,190 mi coastline

Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, with over 11,600 miles of tidal shoreline across its main stem and tributaries. Annapolis — the sailing capital of the East Coast — anchors a cruising ground that stretches from the C&D Canal to the Potomac River, with world-class sailing, fishing, and waterfront dining throughout.

Annapolis Yacht Basin

Annapolis, MD

Visit website

Annapolis’s premier superyacht-capable marina, with three deep-water face docks routinely welcoming vessels to 240 feet. Five high-speed Sunoco fuel pumps with year-round service and volume discounts. The staff understands the needs of professional yacht crews and can accommodate virtually any request. A common stopover for boats repositioning north or south.

Slips

~100 fixed slips + 3 face docks

Max LOA

240 ft (face docks)

Nearby Hotel

Graduate Annapolis (0.5 mi)

Supply Store

Fawcett Boat Supplies (0.3 mi)

Fuel (Sunoco, 5 high-speed pumps)Pump-out30/50/100 ampWi-FiShowersShip storeFull-service boatyard

Annapolis Landing Marina

Annapolis, MD

Visit website

The only fueling option on Back Creek in the Eastport section of Annapolis. Caters to a diverse range of boats from sailboats to grand yachts up to 120 feet. Electric, water, cable TV, and Wi-Fi are included in dockage. Water taxis run around the clock to downtown Annapolis, putting the city’s best attractions minutes away.

Slips

129 slips

Max LOA

120 ft

Nearby Hotel

Annapolis Waterfront Hotel (1 mi (water taxi))

Supply Store

Fawcett Boat Supplies (0.5 mi)

Fuel (gas & diesel, only fuel on Back Creek)Free pump-out (3 stations)50 amp (included)Wi-FiCable TVPoolShowersLaundryDinghy dockWater taxi to downtown

Port Annapolis Marina

Annapolis, MD

Visit website

Family-owned since 1977, Port Annapolis sprawls across 16 park-like acres on Back Creek with bridge-free access to the Chesapeake Bay. Resort-style amenities include a pool, fitness center, café, and the Chessie Lounge. One of the few Annapolis marinas that specializes in accommodating large catamarans. Summer shuttle to downtown.

Slips

250+ slips (including catamaran slips)

Max LOA

~100 ft

Nearby Hotel

Annapolis Waterfront Hotel (2 mi)

Supply Store

Port Annapolis Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Pump-out30/50 amp (included)Wi-FiPoolFitness centerWet Dog CaféShip storeShowersLaundryLoaner bicyclesShuttle to downtown75-ton Travelift

Harbor East Marina

Baltimore, MD

Visit website

Baltimore’s premier marina in the heart of the Inner Harbor’s Harbor East neighborhood. Newly renovated floating docks with wider slips, Ipe decking, and enhanced shore power. Walk to the National Aquarium, Fell’s Point, Little Italy, and Camden Yards. Distinguished by a 24/7 security team of off-duty police and security officers.

Slips

184 slips + 900 ft alongside dockage

Max LOA

200 ft

Nearby Hotel

Four Seasons Baltimore (0.2 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine (online/delivery) (N/A)

In-slip pump-out30/50/100 ampWi-FiGated 24/7 securityBoater’s loungeShowersLaundryGarage parkingWhole Foods nearbyWater taxi access

Herrington Harbour South

Friendship (Deale), MD

Visit website

One of the largest marinas on the Chesapeake Bay, repeatedly voted Best Marina by Chesapeake Bay Magazine readers. Resort-scale amenities include two swimming pools, a sandy beach, waterfront dining, tennis courts, and a fitness center. Located on the western shore of the bay in Deale, with excellent access to Chesapeake fishing grounds.

Slips

800+ slips

Max LOA

~100 ft

Nearby Hotel

Herrington on the Bay (event venue) (0.5 mi)

Supply Store

Herrington Harbour Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dockPump-out30/50 ampWi-Fi2 poolsWaterfront restaurant (Mango’s)Fitness centerShip storeShowersLaundryTennis courtsSandy beach

Safe Harbor Zahnisers

Solomons Island, MD

Visit website

Voted Best of the Bay year after year by Chesapeake Bay Magazine readers. Award-winning marina on the Patuxent River at Solomons Island, a popular waypoint for ICW travelers. The celebrated La Vela Italian restaurant is on-site. Gated facility with a tenured, knowledgeable staff. Part of the Safe Harbor network.

Slips

250 slips + T-head spaces

Max LOA

100 ft

Nearby Hotel

Holiday Inn Solomons (0.5 mi)

Supply Store

Safe Harbor Marine Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dockPump-out30/50 ampWi-FiPoolRestaurant (La Vela)Captain’s loungeMarine storeShowersLaundryCourtesy bicycles & shuttle car50-ton Travelift

St. Michaels Marina

St. Michaels, MD

Visit website

Charming Eastern Shore marina in the heart of St. Michaels, one of the most popular cruising destinations on the Chesapeake. Walking distance to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants. The town’s compact, walkable layout makes it ideal for exploring by bike or on foot.

Slips

~60 slips

Max LOA

~120 ft

Nearby Hotel

Inn at Perry Cabin (0.5 mi)

Supply Store

St. Michaels Hardware & Marine (0.3 mi)

FuelPump-out30/50/100 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryPoolCourtesy bicycles

Marine Supply & Chandlery — Maryland

Annapolis institution since 1946 and one of the most comprehensive marine supply stores on the East Coast. Hardware, rigging, electronics, safety equipment, paint, and a massive fastener inventory. The go-to chandlery for Chesapeake Bay sailors.

Marine surplus and discount supply store in Eastport, Annapolis. Great prices on sails (new and used), hardware, line, and general marine supplies. A local favorite for value-conscious boaters.

West MarineMultiple locations (Annapolis, Baltimore, Grasonville)

National marine supply chain with multiple Chesapeake Bay locations. Full range of electronics, safety gear, maintenance supplies, and boating apparel.

Virginia

VA · 3,315 mi coastline

Virginia’s waters include the southern reaches of the Chesapeake Bay, the vast Hampton Roads harbor, the tidal rivers (James, York, Rappahannock, Potomac), and the seaside communities of Virginia Beach. The ICW runs through the Great Dismal Swamp and the Virginia Cut, connecting the Chesapeake to North Carolina.

Waterside Marina

Norfolk, VA

Visit website

Downtown Norfolk’s premier marina at Mile Marker 0 on the ICW, with 20-foot controlling depths and floating docks installed in 2020. Accommodates mega-yachts up to 300 feet. Walking distance to Waterside District dining, Chrysler Museum, and the Nauticus naval museum. A complimentary grocery shuttle makes provisioning easy.

Slips

60 slips (floating docks)

Max LOA

300 ft

Nearby Hotel

Norfolk Waterside Marriott (0.2 mi)

Supply Store

Tidewater Marine Supply (2 mi)

30/50/100/200+ ampPump-outWi-FiSatellite TVShowersLaundryIceCourtesy grocery shuttleAthletic club accessDog park nearbyWinter storage

Long Bay Pointe Marina

Virginia Beach, VA

Visit website

Full-service marina on the Lynnhaven River in Virginia Beach, with easy access to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic via the Lynnhaven Inlet. Well-protected basin with resort-style amenities including a pool and waterfront restaurant. Popular with sport fishermen targeting cobia, flounder, and striper in the lower bay.

Slips

~180 slips

Max LOA

~80 ft

Nearby Hotel

Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Town Center (3 mi)

Supply Store

Long Bay Pointe Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel (gas & diesel)Pump-out30/50 ampWi-FiPoolRestaurantShip storeShowersLaundryFish-cleaning stations

Deltaville Marina

Deltaville, VA

Visit website

Located on Virginia’s Middle Peninsula in the Rappahannock River area, Deltaville is known as the Boatbuilding Capital of the Chesapeake. This full-service marina and boatyard provides a quiet, traditional Chesapeake Bay experience with skilled craftsmen and competitive rates. A popular waypoint for north–south cruisers on the bay.

Slips

~80 slips

Max LOA

~70 ft

Nearby Hotel

Deltaville Dockside Inn (0.5 mi)

Supply Store

Deltaville Maritime Museum & Boatyard (1 mi)

FuelPump-out30/50 ampShip storeShowersLaundry35-ton TraveliftFull-service boatyardWinter storage

Old Point Comfort Marina

Fort Monroe (Hampton), VA

Visit website

Situated at the tip of the Virginia Peninsula where the Chesapeake Bay meets Hampton Roads, adjacent to historic Fort Monroe National Monument. Protected harbor with deep-water access. Excellent starting point for exploring Hampton Roads, the James River, and the York River. The Chamberlin Hotel, a restored 1928 landmark, is steps away.

Slips

~125 slips

Max LOA

~120 ft

Nearby Hotel

Chamberlin Hotel (0.2 mi)

Supply Store

Old Point Comfort Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

FuelPump-out30/50/100 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryPoolShip storeCourtesy car

York River Yacht Haven

Gloucester Point, VA

Visit website

One of the largest full-service marinas on the York River, with over 350 slips and a protected deep-water basin. The on-site restaurant and pool create a resort-like atmosphere. Full boatyard with a 55-ton Travelift and experienced technicians. Convenient base for visiting Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown Battlefield (both under 15 minutes).

Slips

~350 slips

Max LOA

~80 ft

Nearby Hotel

Quality Inn Gloucester (2 mi)

Supply Store

York River Yacht Haven Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dockPump-out30/50 ampWi-FiPoolRestaurantShip storeShowersLaundry55-ton TraveliftFull-service boatyard

Alexandria City Marina

Alexandria, VA

Visit website

Municipal transient dock on the Potomac River in the heart of Old Town Alexandria’s historic waterfront. Steps from King Street’s boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. Water taxi connections to Georgetown, The Wharf, and National Harbor. Ideal for a day trip or overnight visit to the DC metro area from the water.

Slips

Transient dockage (hourly & overnight)

Max LOA

~100 ft

Nearby Hotel

Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria (0.2 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine (online/delivery) (N/A)

Shore powerWaterPump-outDowntown Alexandria location

Marine Supply & Chandlery — Virginia

Established marine supply store in the Norfolk area serving the Hampton Roads boating community. Hardware, electronics, safety equipment, and commercial marine supplies.

West MarineMultiple locations (Virginia Beach, Hampton, Deltaville)

National marine supply chain with Virginia locations along the Chesapeake Bay corridor. Full range of boating supplies, electronics, and safety gear.

Mid-Atlantic Cruising Tips

Weather & Tides

Summer in the Mid-Atlantic is warm and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through August. Sea breezes moderate coastal temperatures but can build to 15–20 knots by mid-afternoon. Tidal ranges are moderate: 4–5 feet in New York Harbor, 2–3 feet in the Chesapeake Bay, and 3–4 feet along the New Jersey coast. The Chesapeake Bay is shallow (average depth 21 feet) and can build steep, short-period seas in strong winds. Monitor NOAA Weather Radio continuously and check forecasts before each passage.

Navigation & Hazards

Commercial shipping traffic is heavy in the approaches to New York Harbor, Delaware Bay, the C&D Canal, Baltimore, and Hampton Roads. Stay well clear of marked shipping channels and monitor VHF Channel 13. Crab pot floats are ubiquitous in the Chesapeake Bay from May through November and can foul propellers and running gear. The Cape May Canal and C&D Canal have tidal currents that require careful timing. New Jersey’s barrier island inlets (Barnegat, Manasquan, Atlantic City) can be treacherous in opposing wind and current conditions.

Provisioning

Major provisioning stops include Manhattan, Annapolis, Baltimore, Cape May, and Norfolk, all of which have grocery stores within walking distance or courtesy car range. Many Chesapeake Bay marinas offer shuttle service to nearby grocery stores. The Hamptons and Long Beach Island have excellent gourmet provisioning options but at higher prices. Solomons Island, St. Michaels, and Deltaville have limited provisioning — stock up before visiting these charming but smaller ports.

Popular Cruising Routes

Chesapeake Bay Circuit (2–3 weeks): Annapolis → St. Michaels → Oxford → Solomons Island → Deltaville → Hampton → Norfolk → return via the western shore. The classic Chesapeake cruising circuit covering both shores.

Long Island & Hamptons (1–2 weeks): Manhattan → Port Washington → Greenport → Sag Harbor → Montauk → Block Island → return via Long Island Sound. World-class cruising with resort towns, vineyards, and outstanding fishing.

ICW South (1–2 weeks): New York Harbor → Atlantic Highlands → Point Pleasant → Barnegat Light → Atlantic City → Cape May → C&D Canal → Chesapeake Bay. The protected inside route south, ideal for fall migration or snowbird repositioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to cruise the Mid-Atlantic?
The prime cruising season runs from late April through early November, roughly two months longer than New England. May–June and September–October offer the best combination of comfortable weather, lighter crowds, and reasonable marina rates. July and August are warmest but can bring high humidity, afternoon thunderstorms, and peak marina demand. Chesapeake Bay sailing is excellent from April through November; the Outer Banks and Virginia coast are best from May through October.
Do I need to book marina slips in advance in the Mid-Atlantic?
Advance booking is strongly recommended during summer weekends at popular destinations: Annapolis, Sag Harbor, Newport, Cape May, Montauk, and Baltimore’s Inner Harbor fill quickly. Most Mid-Atlantic marinas accept reservations through the Dockwa platform. Mid-week arrivals at smaller harbors often have same-day availability. Holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day) require booking weeks or months ahead at premier locations.
What is the typical cost of transient dockage in the Mid-Atlantic?
Transient dockage rates vary significantly by location. Budget municipal docks start at $2–$3 per foot per night. Mid-range full-service marinas charge $3–$5 per foot. Premium destinations like Manhattan’s North Cove, Montauk Yacht Club, and Annapolis charge $5–$10+ per foot. Chesapeake Bay marinas are generally more affordable than Northeast corridor marinas. Some marinas include electric in the dockage rate; others meter separately.
How do I transit the C&D Canal?
The Chesapeake & Delaware Canal is a 14-mile, sea-level canal connecting the upper Chesapeake Bay to the Delaware River. There are no locks — it is open and straightforward to navigate. The speed limit is 10 mph (approximately 8.5 knots). Current can run 2–3 knots, so timing your transit to ride the favorable current saves fuel and time. Chesapeake City (Safe Harbor Schaefer’s) is the main stopping point, located roughly at the canal’s midpoint. VHF Channel 13 is used for bridge and traffic communications.
Is the Chesapeake Bay suitable for sailboats with deep drafts?
The Chesapeake Bay’s main channel is generally deep (20–60 feet), but many tributaries, anchorages, and marina approaches are considerably shallower. Sailboats drawing 5–6 feet can access most destinations without issue. Boats drawing 7+ feet need to pay close attention to chart data, particularly on the Eastern Shore where shoals and mudflats are common. The Sassafras River, Wye River, and some creeks can be quite shallow. Always consult current charts and call ahead.
What are the best hurricane holes in the Mid-Atlantic?
The Chesapeake Bay offers numerous well-protected anchorages. Oxford on the Tred Avon River, Solomons Island on the Patuxent River, and the Sassafras River are traditional hurricane holes. In New York, the Hudson River above the Tappan Zee provides excellent protection. In New Jersey, the Manasquan River and the back bays behind the barrier islands (Barnegat Bay) offer shelter. Cape May Harbor, behind the jetties, is well-protected from most directions. During hurricanes, always follow marina storm protocols and move inland when possible.
What are the major shipping hazards in the Mid-Atlantic?
Commercial shipping traffic is heavy in the approaches to New York Harbor, Delaware Bay, the C&D Canal, Baltimore, and Hampton Roads. Stay well clear of the marked shipping channels and monitor VHF Channel 13 (bridge-to-bridge) when crossing. Crab pot floats are ubiquitous in the Chesapeake Bay from May through November — they can foul propellers and running gear, so maintain a vigilant lookout. Lobster pots are less common than in New England but exist in the upper Mid-Atlantic.
What VHF channels should I monitor when cruising the Mid-Atlantic?
Monitor VHF Channel 16 (international distress and calling) at all times. Channel 13 is the bridge-to-bridge channel used by commercial traffic and in the C&D Canal. Most marinas specify a working channel (commonly 09, 16, 68, or 71) for docking instructions. Channel 22A carries Coast Guard weather and notices to mariners. NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts continuously on WX channels. When approaching a new marina, hail on VHF 16 or their posted channel and identify your vessel name, length, and arrival intentions.

Find Your Next Boat

Browse listings from brokerages worldwide. From center consoles to sailing yachts, find the right boat for your Mid-Atlantic cruising plans.