| When the sun comes out, Americans flock to the water in search of cool breezes and nautical surroundings. B&B getaway or luxury cruise? Now, B&B-goers can experience the best of both worlds – boats, berths and breakfasts – all in one. Come on board with BedandBreakfast.com's list of maritime-themed getaways.
Rose Sail Inn, British Virgin Islands: June through September, the owners of Kentucky’s 1823 historic Rose Hill Inn head 2,000 miles south to skipper "sail and breakfast" excursions on their 47-foot Beneteau yacht. Three private cabins with baths allow plenty of room for up to two couples and the crew. For larger groups, a Lagoon 410 catamaran with four cabins is an option. Their tours – customized to the whims of guests – wind through the British Virgin Islands and the French Leeward Islands. Learn to sail, or sit back and let the captain do the steering while the first mate prepares gourmet meals.
Captain's Inn at Moss Landing, Moss Landing, CA: Originally built in 1906 as the Pacific Coast Steamship Co, this inn and its new luxury dockhouse are decorated in whimsical seaside and nautical antique themes. While you may not rock with the waves, you’ll sleep in a boat; actual working sailboats, canoes, fishing boats, row boats and whaling skiffs have been crafted into beds in the inn’s dockhouse guestrooms. In the Sail Away Room, the bedposts are masts, the curtains are made from a spinnaker sail, the desk is an upturned stern, and the bed sits on the bow, all made from a Little Quick 505 sailboat.
Boston Yacht Haven, Boston, MA: “Marineiacs” drawn by the lure of a marina but not the rock and roll of the sea will find the perfect alternative here. The post-and-beam boathouse rooms have all the trappings of a prestigious yacht club and the distinctiveness of some of the finest hotels in the city. Built on a wharf overlooking the harbor, marina and city, several suites have large private balconies overlooking the harbor for private patio dining. For the ultimate seaside getaway, book the Penthouse Suite with a 180-degree view of the city and marina.
Golden Slipper – Boston’s B&B Afloat, Lewis Wharf, Boston, MA: Boston’s original floating B&B, this 1960 Chris Craft is located in the heart of historic Boston, within walking distance to Faneuil Hall, The Freedom Trail, and Little Italy. This private boat accommodates up to four people at a secure locked marina. A continental breakfast is left upon your arrival, and unless a private catered dinner for four or more is requested, the owner – a private charter chef – is not on board. It’s perfect for everyone, from families visiting Boston’s sites to romantic couples seeking a unique getaway. Private boat charters of America’s first boatbuilding area on the North and South Rivers are also available.
Bed and Breakfast Afloat c/o Constitution Marina, Boston MA: Constitution Marina offers overnight dockside charters on luxury yachts and sailboats at their onboard bed and breakfast. Stay aboard a choice of luxury yachts, with full access to the marina’s harborside while taking in some of the best views of Boston's inner harbor and downtown skyline. Conveniently located on the historic Freedom Trail, it’s just a five minute walk to North End restaurants, public transportation, and the new Fleet Center. Voted "Best Marina in Boston" by Boston Magazine, these floating B&Bs offer luxury accommodations at rates less far less than most downtown hotels.
Boat & Breakfast on the Pintita, Baltimore, MD: This 45-foot sailing ketch offers overnight boat and breakfast accommodations at historic Fell’s Point, including a gourmet breakfast. The Pintita accommodates up to four in two air-conditioned staterooms, each with a private head (bathroom). Located within walking distance to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, this boat and breakfast offers wonderful on-water accommodations. Add a private two-hour sunset sail for an additional fee.
The Lua Cheia, Portland OR: The Lua Cheia (Pronounced Lou-a-shay-ya) is a 35-foot Carver Motoryacht with a single level floorplan and spacious flybridge. The entire boat is yours for the duration of your visit, making this a wonderfully romantic way to experience downtown Portland.
Motoryacht Southern Comfort, Charleston, SC: Calling themselves a “berth and breakfast,” this floating B&B offers more than 2,300 square feet of living space on a 61-foot classic Hatteras motoryacht. Each of the three guest staterooms, including a private head, is decorated with scenes from Charleston's nautical past. Located just three blocks from the famous Charleston Battery and Rainbow Row at Charleston City Marina, use the onboard bikes to tour the fabulous and historic downtown Charleston. From December through April, the B&B goes to sea, and the same floating B&B is based in Green Turtle Cay, Bahamas.
Heart and Sol Houseboat B&B, Seattle, WA: This barge-type houseboat is located on an outer dock of Lake Union with fantastic views of the city, float planes, sailboats and power boats. The first floor features an inviting living room complete with TV/DVD/VCR and stereo, and a full galley-style kitchen. The dining table converts to a double bed, and a small twin bedroom is ideal for children. The upper deck houses a private bedroom with a queen-size bed and a large outer deck. Your backyard, a.k.a. the dock, offers a barbecue grill; use of the two-person kayak and dinghy with motor are also included.
(Source: BedandBreakfast.com)
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