3 of the best boating cities in the U.S. in 2026 are in New England, according to BoatBooker

Travel

They are in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Maine.

By Kristi Palma

January 15, 2026 | 12:15 PM

2 minutes to read

If your ideal getaway includes chilling out on a boat, three New England destinations just ranked among the best in the U.S. for hitting the open water.

BoatBooker, an online platform for booking boating experiences, released a list of the 12 best boating cities in the U.S. for 2026 and included Barnstable, Mass.; Newport, R.I.; and Portland, Maine.

“Whether you’re an experienced boater or just starting out, these best boating cities offer the perfect mix of exploration, relaxation, and life on water like never before,” wrote BoatBooker.

Barnstable, the largest town on Cape Cod, is full of charming villages, beautiful beaches, art, history, and food.

“Visitors can join fishing trips targeting Striped Bass, Flounder, and Bluefish or take leisure cruises through the bay,” wrote BoatBooker. “Whale watching and sunset tours are also widely available, offering a memorable way to experience the area’s natural beauty. Meanwhile, kayaking along quieter channels is ideal for families and those seeking a slower pace.”

Check out five things to do while visiting Barnstable.

The coastal city of Newport, known as the sailing capital of the world, draws visitors for its boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and Gilded Age mansions.

“Charter boats here cater to every type of boater, from guided fishing trips targeting Striped Bass to gorgeous harbor tours highlighting Newport’s famed Cliff Walk,” wrote BoatBooker. “Sailing lessons and day sails offer newcomers a chance to get hands-on experience, while seasoned sailors can race in local regattas. Whale watching excursions and sunset cruises add variety, making every outing unique and engaging.”

Discover 3 low-cost ways of having fun in Newport.

The seaside city of Portland is known for its maritime heritage, cultural attractions, and renowned dining scene.

“The area offers guided harbor cruises, fishing charters targeting Striped Bass and Bluefish, and sailing excursions for all skill levels,” wrote the site. “Tours of Casco Bay highlight the rugged coastline and historic lighthouses, while kayaking and paddleboarding are popular along quieter inlets, allowing visitors to explore hidden coves and spot local wildlife in a relaxed setting.”

Find out how to spend a “perfect” long weekend in Portland.

BoatBooker comprised the list by examining the variety and quality of boating experiences, customer interest and booking trends, accessibility of rivers, lakes, and coastal waterways, input from local captains and operators, and the destination’s appeal.

Other destinations on the list include St. Petersburg, Fla., Wilmington, N.C., and Annapolis, Md.

BoatBooker, which launched in 2024, offers more than 8,400 trips in 710 destinations worldwide.

Check out the list of 12 best boating cities in the U.S. for 2026.

Kristi Palma

Travel writer

 

Kristi Palma is the travel writer for Boston.com, focusing on the six New England states. She covers airlines, hotels, and things to do across Boston and New England. She is the author of Scenic Six, a weekly travel newsletter.