Notice Not affiliated with the Master Mariners Benevolent Association (MMBA) or any successor organization. v.2026.05

Destination Guides

Five cruising grounds that matter — with the information you need before you go, not after

These guides cover five distinct cruising grounds across North America and the near offshore. Each one covers the practical details that matter: currents, draft limits, weather patterns, which stops are worth the detour, and what the hazards are and how to deal with them. Written for sailors who have done some passages and want to do more, not for tourists looking for a resort recommendation.

New England Intermediate–Advanced

Cruising Maine: The Rock-Bound Coast

Cold, foggy, granite-edged, and the best cruising on the East Coast — if you go prepared.

Best: July–September Read guide →
Gulf Coast Beginner–Intermediate

Florida's West Coast: The Forgotten Shore

No inlet drama, the ICW all the way, and Charlotte Harbor — the most underrated anchorage system in Florida.

Best: November–April Read guide →
Pacific Northwest Intermediate

The Pacific Northwest: Deception Pass to Desolation Sound

300 miles of protected water, prawn traps you can pull for dinner, and no roads in at the far end.

Best: June–September Read guide →
New England Intermediate

New England Islands: Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, Block Island

Three islands, three personalities — and September on Nantucket when the tourists are gone.

Best: June, September Read guide →
Bahamas Intermediate–Advanced

The Bahamas Crossing: Fort Lauderdale to the Abacos

You leave at midnight, the Stream runs north, and the window matters more than anything else.

Best: November–May Read guide →
Caribbean Beginner–Intermediate

The Caribbean: BVI, USVI, Puerto Rico & the Eastern Arc

Four destination guides covering the BVI charter circuit, Puerto Rico's overlooked anchorages, the USVI gateway, and the Antigua-to-Grenada arc.

Best: November–June Read guide →
Gulf of Mexico Beginner–Advanced

Gulf of Mexico: Four Cruising Grounds

Texas ICW to the Bahamas — the Laguna Madre, New Orleans by water, the Emerald Coast, and the Exumas south of George Town.

Best: October–May Read guide →

Looking for a Marina?

Find slips, anchorages, and facilities across North America in the Marina Directory →