Trying to decide just where to point your bow in 2022? We know you have your favorite ports and harbors that you chart a course to every year. But, if you’re looking for new horizons, here’s a list of the 2022 Top Boating Destinations recommended by Snag-A-Slip boaters from around the United States. We asked them to share their favorite cruising destinations and they didn’t disappoint. Some spots may already be your favorites, and others may surprise you. But all are guaranteed to inspire and delight.
Newport, Rhode Island
Boating and Newport have always been, and probably always will be, synonymous. From every vantage point you can glimpse water and boats, and hear the familiar sound of seagulls flying overhead. And, the historic Newport Harbor is like a trip back in time, to a village filled with artisan shops, friendly faces and outstanding seafood restaurants. Needless to say, boaters are treated like royalty and welcomed with open arms. While there, be sure to explore the beauty of New England’s coastline and even join in one of the many waterfront festivals. While in Newport, you can add some adventure with a day trip to celebrated Martha’s Vineyard. From New England’s iconic coastline to Newport’s Historic District with its colonial architecture, it’s clear to see why this is one of the country’s top boating destinations.
Where to dock
Providence Marina – Providence, Rhode Island
Nestled in the heart of Providence, Providence Marina has a prime Rhode Island location. Everything you could need and want is within a mile of its slips. As you cruise into the area, you’re greeted by the impressive city skyline of downtown Providence. And this gated, pet-friendly property also offers a full menu of amenities including a private bathroom and showering facilities, and three restaurants right on site. But when you’re in the mood to check out the dozens of bars, restaurants, and shops nearby, venture into downtown Providence. There’s always something to do, or you can simply enjoy the view from the bow of your own boat.
Avondale Boat Yard – Westerly, Rhode Island
Avondale Boat Yard feels like a home away from home, probably because it has been proudly family-owned and operated for generations. The 96-slip marina is located on the Pawcatuck River in Westerly Rhode Island, right at the border of Connecticut and Rhode Island. And it’s just a quick cruise to either the Long Island Sound or the Block Island Sound. The historic town of Avondale is filled with rich and fascinating history, one-of-a-kind shops, rustic bars and delicious eateries. The marina is full-service and staffed by experienced technicians ready to help with all your boating needs. During your stay you’ll have access to clean showering and restroom facilities as well as complimentary WIFI. Their quiet picnic area is perfect for enjoying a meal overlooking the water. And their store lets you stock up on provisions and other boating necessities before heading out.
Pier 65 Marina – Westerly, Rhode Island
Pier 65 Marina in Westerly, Rhode Island is a no-frills, pet-friendly marina near the very popular downtown Westerly. Boaters enjoy this quiet stop surrounded by the natural beauty of Rhode Island. Although you will enjoy the privacy, the marina is just a few miles from a grocery store, clubs and bars, a health club, hotels and laundry facilities. If pristine beaches are what you’re looking for, Westerly’s beaches draw tourists from near and far. The marina also offers boat repair services on site for those who want to get some work done while they’re out and about exploring this great seaside town.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
With an impressive 300 miles of waterways, hundreds of marinas and over 40,000 yachts, Fort Lauderdale is undeniably a boater’s wonderland. It’s a city literally designed for boats and boaters. It’s not surprising that it’s one of the most popular places in the United States for living on a boat year-round. More reasons for its popularity include the sun that shines year-round, the beautiful beaches, world-class fishing, and coral reefs perfect for exploring – not to mention glamorous resorts. It has it all. While there, you can cruise the endless waterways or simply put your feet up and enjoy an ice-cold drink. Or if you want to do some spectacular sightseeing, head to the Everglades. And if you happen to be there in November, that’s when they usually hold the renowned Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Any boater worth their salt will be there!
Where to dock
17th Street Yacht Basin – Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
The 17th Street Yacht Basin is located in lively Fort Lauderdale. This boutique marina has 30 interior slips for boats up to 70 feet, as well as 850 feet of parallel superyacht face dock directly on the intracoastal waterway. With direct ocean access, the marina is the closest marina to the Port Everglades Inlet. All marina guests are welcome to enjoy the on-site Hilton Hotel amenities, including a cocktail bar, restaurant, pool, fitness center, and more. Plus, the knowledgeable dock staff is ready to make your stay easy and enjoyable. The marina is also within walking distance to the endless entertainment Fort Lauderdale is famous for.
Seahaven Superyacht Marina – Dania Beach, Florida
Seahaven Superyacht Marina in Dania Beach is a new marina with luxury accommodations. Their clubhouse facilities were designed to offer the “ultimate marriage of luxury, convenience, security, and privacy for superyachts.” Outstanding amenities are what you can expect as a guest, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, pristine restrooms, shower facilities, and event space. Just a few minutes from downtown, the marina makes it easy and convenient to explore all that Dania Beach has to offer – including countless restaurants, bars, retail shops and soft sand beaches.
Sands Harbor Resort & Marina – Pompano Beach, Florida
Sands Harbor Resort & Marina is located in charming Pompano Beach. This full-service marina has 50 slips that can accommodate vessels up to 120 feet. It also offers ample amenities including a fuel dock, bait and tackle shop, convenience store, and more. And there are plenty of activities to entertain your whole crew including glass bottom boat rentals and sports fishing charters. If diving is your idea of fun, the marina also offers dive charters so you can scuba dive or snorkel the day away. Nearby you’ll also find a delightful selection of local restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
The Florida Keys
Without a doubt, a more boat-centric destination than the Florida Keys does not exist. And no introduction is needed for these islands stretching elegantly 100 miles from the southern tip of Florida down through the crystal-clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Most boaters consider the Keys the foremost boating spot on the entire east coast. This tropical wonderland of 800 barely-above-water islands and 6,000 reefs is really Disney World for boaters. And, of course, there is no better way to appreciate the Keys than by boat. Sunshine-filled days can be enjoyed while fishing, snorkeling, sailing, wakeboarding, and water skiing. Or dig your toes in the sand as you sip a frozen beverage. We can only describe the Keys as inspirational. After all, Hemingway spent many years in Key West taking his inspiration from the nature, people and culture.
Where to dock
Garden Cove Marina – Key Largo, Florida
A stay at the Garden Cove Marina will make you feel like a Keys local. Located ocean side of Key Largo, the marina has direct access to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s perfectly situated in a small town, just off the beaten path. But don’t be fooled by the location, guests at the marina know how to have a good time. The Buzzard’s Roost, the on-site restaurant and tiki bar, is the center of all the fun with live music every Friday, and complimentary mimosas at Sunday brunch. Buzzard’s even offers Hook N’ Cook meals – you catch it, they cook it, and you eat it! Whether you’re just making a pit stop for fuel and a few odds and ends or looking for a weekend getaway, Garden Cove and their friendly staff are always happy to see you.
Postcard Inn Beach Resort and Marina – Islamorada, Florida
The Postcard Inn Beach Resort and Marina on Islamorada is the ultimate getaway for boaters looking for a beautiful resort with plenty of large slips and great amenities. Located in the heart of scenic Islamorada, the marina has lots of activities for guests to enjoy, including jet-skiing, paddle boarding, kiteboarding, fishing, diving, eco-tours, day trips to key west and sunset cruises. But when you’re in the mood to kick back and relax, you can pull up a lounge at either of the two on-site pools. There are also three restaurants on-site, including Mickey’s, a snack bar, Jaws Raw Bar, a seafood bar and restaurant, and Shula’s 2, a casual restaurant featuring steaks, salads, sandwiches, and more. The marina is currently renovating its Tiki Bar, Holiday Isle Tiki Bar, scheduled to re-open soon.
Key West Yacht Club – Key West, Florida
The Key West Yacht Club is famous for being the southernmost club in the United States, but it’s esteemed for its history and charm. Located in Key West, this tropical paradise is the ideal spot for boaters to share maritime stories and tall tales from around the world. The club offers a wide range of amenities including pristine showering and laundry facilities, a pump-out station, and complimentary WIFI. A Dockside bar sits along the water’s edge, the perfect spot for sipping a cocktail and gazing at the legendary Key West sunsets. And the marina is within walking distance from everything Key West has to offer, including its upbeat atmosphere and over-the-top entertainment. With easy access to live music, bars/nightclubs, restaurants, art, shopping, and much more, you may never want to leave.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is the largest city in Louisiana and one of the biggest ports in the United States. It’s famous worldwide for its unique and distinct everything! And boaters have made it one of their favorite stops. No matter when you visit, you are sure to be welcomed into a festival, parade, or musical event – you name it and they celebrate it. New Orleans takes great pride in its distinctive music, food, theater, literature, and even colorful history. When you step onshore, the contagious hospitality makes you feel like part of the family, especially when they present you with a great drink and a hot plate of food. There’s never a bad time to be in New Orleans. But many believe the best time to visit is from February to May when the weather is comfortable and most celebrations are taking place. Of course, if you’re not interested in the revelry of Mardi Gras, and want a quieter experience, plan to visit in December or January, when the city is quieter.
Where to dock
Gulf Outlet Marina – Chalmette, Louisiana
Gulf Outlet Marina is located in St. Bernard Parish, a serene and picturesque neighborhood on the fringe of lively New Orleans. Located on Bayou Bienvenue, boaters have direct access to the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and its endless maze of water paths and marshlands. In addition to the natural beauty of its surroundings, the marina has everything a boater could need and want, right on site. You can stock up on supplies, like beer, ice, fuel, and snacks at their shop. They also have one of the best bait shops in town. And when you’re hungry, you’ll eat like a local at the marina’s cafe, serving home-grown favorites like red beans & rice, fried catfish, shrimp po’boys, and the famous Louisiana gumbo! Right on site is also a picnic area to enjoy outdoor meals as well as a pool for a bit of rest and relaxation. And there are bathing facilities, laundry, ATM, and groceries available on site. Feeling lucky? Try your luck at the Lucky Bayou Video Poker Casino and Lounge located right next to the café – then use your winnings for a night out in New Orleans.
Lake Catherine Island Marina – New Orleans, Louisiana
Lake Catherine Island Marina is located on beautiful Lake Catherine in New Orleans. A friendly, family-owned and operated marina, it’s situated on the Lake with easy access to Lake Borgne, Lake Ponchartrain, and the Biloxi Marsh, making it a Fisherman’s dream! This full-service marina is equipped with gas, diesel, a 60-ton travel lift, launch ramps and shore power adapters. Visitors also have access to a nice selection of amenities, like immaculate showers, laundry room, snack shop, grocery shop and complimentary WIFI. But what Lake Catherine Island Marina is also known for are its picture-perfect sunrises and sunsets that you can enjoy right from your boat. It’s truly an oasis where you recharge, so you can party all night in New Orleans.
Bridge Side Marina – Grand Isle, Louisiana
The unique location at the southwestern tip of Grand Isle and Caminada Pass, makes this family-owned and operated marina something special. Bridge Side Marina is a full-service marina that also happens to be an angler’s dream getaway! Visitors can catch dozens of saltwater fish without ever having to leave the marina. And you can clean and cut your catch right on the pier’s cleaning station. But it’s not just fishermen who love this marina, its beautiful private beaches call to everyone. There is also a delightful picnic area overlooking the water with grills provided for you. You and your family can even enjoy your tasty catch hot and fresh while watching the sunset. Visitors have access to clean laundry facilities, WIFI, groceries, and more. A day trip or a car ride will get you to Baton Rouge and New Orleans, where you’ll revel in endless Southern Hospitality, shopping, touring, and good eatin’!
Seattle, Washington
Seattle, The Emerald City, is known as one of the most beautiful cities not only in the Pacific Northwest, but in the world. And with this beauty comes some of the best cuisine, outdoor activities and people in America. Seattle is located in one of the most advantageous areas for wonderful adventures to unfold for boaters. There is the rich and lively city itself, amazing views of the mountains, plenty of fresh bodies of water, and the Canadian border less than 100 miles away. What you’ll find above and beyond unrivaled natural beauty, are world-class attractions, major sports teams, a thriving arts and culture scene, and more. And there is something for everyone and every wallet. Whether you’re a family looking for budget-friendly vacation or a seasoned traveler on the hunt for a new landscape to explore, Seattle has it. In the city of Seattle itself, or throughout the beautiful coastline, you’ll be delighted with artisan makers, indie boutiques, designer fashions, priceless works of art, and wonderfully diverse neighborhoods. Seattle truly has it all. The perfect adventure awaits.
Where to dock
Foss Harbor Marina – Tacoma, Washington
Foss Harbor Marina is an attractive and welcoming property located along the shores of Tacoma. The fresh, modern and spacious facility is ideally located right in downtown Tacoma. The marina itself offers an extensive list of both services and amenities that are sure to make you feel right at home. Guests have access to clean and private showering and restroom facilities, as well as a laundry area. On site is also a boater’s lounge, and a market where you can grab a bite. This pet-friendly marina is home to a picnic area that overlooks the harbor, making for the perfect place to enjoy an alfresco meal on the waterfront. Need to stock up your galley? No worries! The marina market has all the groceries and provisions you’ll need. And when you’re ready to explore, you can head downtown to any of the nearby restaurants, or stroll around town perusing the one-of-a-kind retail shops and boutiques.
Coast Victoria Hotel and Marina by APA – Victoria, British Columbia
Coast Victoria Hotel and Marina in Vancouver, British Columbia is the perfect marina for every member of your crew – even the furry ones. This pet-friendly marina is equipped with 52 boat slips of all sizes and a full range of services and amenities, including a fitness center, whirlpool, and sauna. Its location, in the heart of Victoria on the Middle Harbour, assures that there will be lots of adventurous activities to try, including zipline tours and whale watching! When you want to enjoy a quieter day, you can visit nearby museums or Butchart Gardens, where you’ll be amazed and enchanted by splendid floral designs. Close to Market Square, the marina is also convenient for great shopping and cuisine. Just hop on the complimentary shuttle into town and explore. This is the perfect marina for a quick stop or a week’s break.
Point Roberts Marina – Point Roberts, Washington
Point Roberts Marina is a beautiful resort-style facility located on the shores of the Pacific Northwest, close to the San Juan Islands. It’s also a short cruise to the Canadian Gulf Islands, Victoria, and bustling downtown Vancouver. While there are endless attractions nearby, there are also excellent amenities available right on the property. Guests have access to private showering and restroom facilities, as well as a laundry area and complimentary WIFI. Westwind Marine Service operates on site, providing guests with full-service repair and chandlery performed by factory-trained mechanics. And when you’re looking for a place to grab a little local fare, head to Compass Rose Bar & Grill right on the property. This fantastic little restaurant is the perfect mix of casual and classic, serving up delicious seafood and land fare.
