Solo Sailing to Three Incredible East Coast Islands | Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard & Block Island

I sailed solo from Portland, Maine, to three of the most beautiful islands I’ve visited on the U.S. East Coast: Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, and Block Island. Each has a character of its own. The first passage took me about 215 nautical miles to Nantucket, with strong currents around Cape Cod before a morning arrival. I explored the island’s whaling history and historic streets, then sailed roughly 30 nautical miles to Martha’s Vineyard on a gorgeous day under sail. I changed my plans after leaving the Vineyard, spent a night anchored at tiny Cuttyhunk, and continued toward Block Island. Along the way, the foiling 11th Hour Racing Team boat passed me at speed! Block Island welcomed me with rain, currents, and a beautifully sheltered anchorage. Join me aboard Mirage for the sailing, the unexpected stops, and three unforgettable islands. ⛵ 0:00 Bow thruster repaired and goodbye, Portland 1:45 Sailing toward Cape Cod and Nantucket 3:01 Rounding Cape Cod 5:04 Strong currents near Monomoy Island 5:49 Morning arrival in Nantucket 6:43 Why I came to Nantucket: whaling history 9:36 Exploring Nantucket 10:42 Leaving for Martha’s Vineyard 12:15 A beautiful sail across 13:11 The route to Vineyard Haven 15:48 Martha’s Vineyard—and where are the vineyards? 17:22 Changing plans for Block Island 18:12 Overnight stop at Cuttyhunk 18:34 Sailing toward Block Island 19:45 An Ocean Race boat passes Mirage 20:54 Arriving at Block Island 21:55 Exploring by scooter