You can explore endless coves and inlets, pass beyond a host of golden sandy beaches, round dozens of untouched islands and spot a number of historic light-houses that will guide your way. Alternatively, fill up the fuel tank on your convertible sportfisher to tackle the waves offshore as you fight to land prized salt-water game-fish.
Boating in Connecticut tends to be preppy, upscale and timeless, and the salubrious city of Norwalk is no different in this regard. Docksides here have a traditional maritime appeal, often lined with vintage clap-board buildings and long-standing wharfs, but don’t be deceived, as they also offer some of the most state-of-the-art facilities in the area. In total there are up to 1,800 berthing spaces in and around Norwalk Harbor itself, split between marinas and quays, jetties and docks, along with a commercial seaport that welcomes 2,700 vessels per year.
One of the largest marinas in town, the Norwalk Cove Marina, sits on the southern edge of the city surrounded by parkland and right by Calf Pasture Beach. This facility sits in a natural harbor, has a full range of amenities and 400 slips for vessels up to 180-feet in length. Directly across from this is the Shore & Country Club Marina, an exclusive, classy affair with 99-slips that has been operating since 1908. Head slightly east to Bluff Point, meanwhile, to discover the Cedar Point Yacht Club, a flagstone of the yachting scene here since the late 19th century with 130-slips. From these marinas you are ideally positioned to explore the Norwalk Islands, a collection of 25 low-lying reefs and rocky outcrops where you can spot herons and black cormorants, or fish for bonito and bluefish, false albacore and flounder. Closer to Norwalk’s stunning inner-city there is also the South Norwalk Boat Club, a large facility with over 300 slips and the 135-slip Ischoda Yacht Club, two historic institutions with a welcoming vibe.
The main date to look out for in Norwalk’s busy boating calendar is the Norwalk Boat Show, a maritime extravaganza held in September each year. This on-the-water events showcases over 300 different boats and attracts more than 15,000 attendees from around the region. Sailing regattas and races are also a mainstay of this area, with regular events held during the spring and summer months.
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