Approaches
The entrance to Rockport is tight, but well-marked and unobstructed. Just outside, however, is one of the region's more ignominious hazards: From whichever direction you approach Sandy Bay,
BE CERTAIN TO LOCATE THE LARGE, UNFINISHED BREAKWATER.
Yes, it does stretch in an inverted V all the way from Green '3' off Pigeon Cove to Red '2' off Straightsmouth Island. It's a menace at any tide, and yes, several unwary navigators hit it each year.
Anchorages
In most summer weather, Sandy Bay is a surprisingly benign body of water. The long reach of Halibut Point to the west and the high land of Cape Ann to the South form a partial enclosure that offers a comfortable lee in the prevailing winds and blocks most ocean swell. On a typical summer weekend, there may be a dozen or so boats happily anchored for the night off Front Beach. A short dinghy trip gets you to town.
The anchorage is, however, completely exposed to the north and east and if the northeaster builds to any strength, many of the berths within Rockport Harbor itself become untenable, as a powerful surge echoes off the granite walls. The nearest reliable shelter is Gloucester, eight miles away.
Moorings and Slips
Rockport's actual harbor is extremely crowded, with local boats moored fore-and-aft on either side of the narrow fairway. The harbormasters do maintain a handful of berths for guests, but these too are very popular. If you're planning to visit Rockport, it is preferable to do so mid-week or off-season. Whenever you go, call the harbormasters several days in advance to establish whether or not a berth is available. Rockport's harbormasters must be the most outgoing on the coast, working closely with visiting boats to keep the somewhat tricky harbor working smoothly.
This is not a harbor to enter after dark unless you're pretty familiar with it. Plan to arrive in Sandy Bay by late afternoon , and hail the harbormasters on channel 9.They will direct you to one of the berths. Rockport uses 3 different mooring techniques, all unusual in Massachusetts. Don't be afraid to ask for advice when tying up. In any case, be prepared with fenders and docklines before entering the harbor. Docking conditions are calm in most weather, still you'll want to get it right the first time. Turning room is scant, and the inevitable crowd of onlookers at the Town Pier is hoping for more excitment in your landing than you are.
Once your boat is secured, remember to pay the Town's modest dockage fee, using the envelopes at the desk inside the Sandy Bay Yacht Club building at the end of T wharf.
A FINAL NOTE:
Sailing Center boats are frequent visitors to Rockport, and are well recognized. Please respect the hospitality that Rockport extends, bearing in mind those other members who will follow you.
