National Sail Publication Singles out New Bedford as Sailing Destination

New England: Fishing Port Aims To Reel in Cruisers
(The following articled appeared in the June 2008 issue of Cruising World)

Once a key whaling port, and now the number-one fishing port in value of catch in the United States, New Bedford, Massachusetts, wants to add “cruising destination” to its résumé. The Economic Development Council and the New Bedford Harbor Development Commission are working hard to make that happen.
“New Bedford possesses authentic charm,” says Matt Morrissey, the executive director of the New Bedford Economic Development Council. “It hasn’t been Disneyfied.”
Additional moorings will be added to the 45 existing ones in the harbor, and many of the area marinas offer transient dock space at daily rates. Plans also exist to add a second boat to Whaling City Launch Service, which can be reached on VHF Channel 72. And city officials say they hope to have a full-service grocery store re-established downtown by this summer. Current options include a Super Stop & Shop that’s a short cab ride away from the waterfront.
Cruisers can visit a scallop-shucking factory, tour a working fishing boat, or view exhibits at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, all within walking distance of the harbor.
View a digital copy of June’s Cruising World
For more information, contact the New Bedford Harbor Development Commission
K.M.