Exploring Plymouth, Massachusetts
Being among the most historic destinations in the United States, Plymouth, Massachusetts would have a lot going for it even if it didn’t have a gorgeous waterfront, wonderful restaurants and interesting shops and museums. Having those attractions makes Plymouth not only a location that every school child knows about, but a destination that every Northeast boater should visit.
Navigating to Plymouth by boat is relatively easy. However, the approach can take a while as Plymouth Harbor is roughly 5 miles from open water. The harbor has a well-marked channel, but boaters should watch out for the strong current off Bug Light.
Slips are available at Plymouth’s Brewer Yacht Yard (508-746-4500; VHF 9 and 72), which services more than 1,200 transient boats each year. Brewer has gas and diesel, marine supplies, shower, and a laundromat. Boaters can often find guest moorings at Plymouth Yacht Club (508-746-7207; VHF Channel 8). There’s also a narrow anchorage behind Plymouth Beach. Boaters can contact the Plymouth harbormaster at VHF 16 or 508-830-4182.
There is plenty to see and do around the home of the Pilgrims. Plimoth Plantation (508-746-1622) is a recreation of the Plymouth Colony settlement and a Wampanoag homesite. Visitors can tour recreated Pilgrim homes and speak with actors portraying Pilgrims and Wampanoag people. Plymouth Rock (508-747-5360) is where, according to legend, the Pilgrims first stepped off the Mayflower. Visitors will find it in Pilgrim Memorial State Park along Plymouth Harbor. Visitors can also tour the Mayflower II, a full-scale reproduction of the famous Mayflower.
Plymouth offers many high-quality restaurants to eat at. Plymouth Waterfront Bar and Grill (508-591-8393) has a diverse menu, an outdoor raw bar, and has spectacular views of the harbor. The Lobster Hut(508-746-2270) has been a fixture in Plymouth for 40 years and is known for delicious seafood. The East Bay Grille (508-746-9751) offers fresh seafood, pasta and steaks in a casual setting.
For more information on visiting Plymouth, check out www.seeplymouth.com.
