Approaches
Entering the outer harbor between the nun and can will keep you clear of the various ledges and shoals across the mouth. The entrance to the inner harbor, between Bull and Nonamesset islands, is not buoyed so stick to the middle and trust your instincts. Both sides shoal quickly, but the depth sounder seems to give a little more warning if you slightly favor the left (east) side going in.
Anchorages
The outer harbor anchorage, north and east of Bull Island, is exposed to the northeast, but well-enough protected otherwise. It's a great lunch stop if you're waiting for the current to change in Woods Hole, a good overnight spot in the right weather, and it's rarely crowded.
The inner harbor is protected in all directions, but it's as likely to be completely full as the outer harbor is to be nearly empty. There is a narrow anchorage to the north of Goats Neck. It's comfortable, but swinging room can be scarce when the inevitable 2 or 3 boats tuck in with short scope on an all-chain rode.
Note that down the middle of the harbor is a fairway, marked by a few warning buoys, where anchoring is prohibited. A private ferry from the mainland runs frequently to its dock on Naushon at the head of the cove.
Moorings
The moorings in the inner harbor are privately maintained, and there are no published guidelines for using them. Visiting boats routinely pick up any unoccupied ball, but they are wildly popular. Don't count on finding one available.
North of Goats Neck, there are 3 Coast Guard moorings, large white nuns. Visiting boats tie up to these as well, though the Coast Guard may require them in bad weather or other emergency.
Advice
Overcrowding is the perennial complaint of cruising sailors, but Hadley is unique. Its proximity to boat traffic, natural appeal, tight anchorages, lack of any reservation system, and maybe a little cachet, all ensure that it is heavily used seven days a week throughout the season. So avoid weekends and holidays, check the weather and Woods Hole currents, plan to arrive early and size up your options. Remember that the much larger harbors of Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, Cuttyhunk and Great Harbor in Woods Hole itself are all within 2 or 3 hours of Hadley.
