Boater’s Guide to Sag Harbor, New York

With its gorgeous harbor, beautiful beaches and picturesque village, New York’s Sag Harbor is an ideal seaside community that has been a favorite among boaters for three centuries.

Once a vibrant whaling port, Sag Harbor used to be one of the world’s busiest ports. Herman Melville even wrote about Sag Harbor in four different chapters of his famous novel Moby Dick. Today, Sag Harbor attracts a different type of mariner with its perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury. The village has carefully preserved much of its 18th- and 19th-century architecture, while boutiques, galleries and restaurants line its Main Street. And boaters come in everything from recreational powerboats to luxurious yachts to enjoy the community.

When entering Sag Harbor, pay careful attention to your charts and course, as boaters have been known to end up on the rocks. The harbor is also busy, so it helps to know ahead of time where you’re going. Once there, the village offers transient slips and moorings (www.sagharborny.gov/departments/harbor-and-docks/; 631-725-2368). Also, Sag Harbor Yacht Club (www.sagharboryc.com; 631-725-0567) offers transient slips, fuel, electric and more.

If you enjoy fine food, you’ll quickly see you are in the right place. Sag Harbor is a foodie’s paradise, featuring a fantastic selection of restaurants. Set atop a yacht club, the Beacon Restaurant (www.beaconsagharbor.com; 631-725-7088) offers a spectacular view while serving a diverse menu. Sen (www.senrestaurant.com; 631.725.1774) offers a menu of inspiring Japanese dishes. And Muse in the Harbor (www.museintheharbor.com; 631-899-4810) features a New American menu heavy on local seafood, peppered with Long Island duck, steak and market-based nightly specials.

When in Sag Harbor, you’ll want to stroll the streets, enjoying the historic architecture and stopping into the many shops. You’ll also want to make time for the Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum (www.sagharborwhalingmuseum.org; 631-725-0770), which includes a boat collection, displays of scrimshaw, model ships and more.

For more information on visit Sag Harbor, you can visit www.sagharborny.gov or contact the chamber of commerce (www.sagharborchamber.com; 631-725-0011).