Hyannis Names & Numbers
April 28, 2020
Getting There
The approaches to Hyannis Harbor are well marked, and the main channel is maintained to a depth of 11’ MLW. If approaching from east, take care to stay south of the R “2” Buoy and north of G “1” Fl G bell, to avoid Gazelle Rock and Bishops and Clerks Ledge. Head for the RW “HH” Mo Bell to pick up the main channel into Hyannis Harbor. If approaching from the west, it’s safest to travel through the Sound via the North Channel to G “5” bell then proceed northeast to the RW “HH” Bell and from there north into the harbor. The dredged channel begins east of G “5” and R “6”.
Also, be aware that Hyannis Harbor is plied by ferries, tour boats and commercial fishermen, so stay alert, especially when running in the fog or at night. Once inside the inner harbor, you’ll see Hyannis Marina to starboard, with Dockside Marina dead ahead. You’ll find the Town Docks at Bismore Park to port.
Charts
NOAA 13237; 13229
(508-790-6273); VHF 9
Dockage, Moorings & Service
Hyannis Marina (508) 790-4000; VHF 9 & 72
Large, full-service marina on the east side of the inner harbor. Offers transient slips, showers, pool, laundry, free WiFi, haul-out, repair and access to two onsite restaurants.
Dockside Marina (508) 771-7171
Moderately priced slips for vessels up to 150 feet, adjacent to the Steamship Authority terminal.
Town Marina/Bismore Park (508) 790-6327; VHF 9
Daytrippers can tie up here for short periods without charge, subject to availability and getting the okay from one of the dockmasters. Longer stays are sometimes permitted by the harbormaster if space is available.
Anchorage
Lewis Bay offers good holding ground in depths of four to ten feet of water, but watch out for the submerged wreck, which is marked by a buoy. The area behind Egg Island offers good protection from southwest winds, and a mud and sand bottom, but can be crowded in summer.
Launch Ramp
A public launch ramp is located on Lewis Bay Road, in the northeast corner of the harbor. This ramp can accommodate large boats on most tides, but beware of the drop-off at low tide. Parking is available for residents and non-residents alike, at both the ramp and the overflow lot (vehicles with trailers only) up the street.
Boat & Kayak Rental
All Cape Rentals (508-827-2001
Rents boats and PWCs out of Dockside Marina.
Sea Sports (508-790-1217
Rentals of kayaks, SUPs, bikes, scuba gear and more.
Where to Eat
Baxter’s Boat House (508) 775-4490
Venerable dock-and-dine restaurant on the inner harbor, adjacent to the Steamship Authority docks. Free dockage, space permitting.
Trader Ed’s (508) 790-8686
Waterside restaurant and bar with outdoor pool at Hyannis Marina. Contact marina dockmaster to arrange a slip.
Tugboats (508) 775-6433
Former sail loft turned restaurant and bar at Hyannis Marina. Contact marina dockmaster for a slip.
Black Cat Tavern (508) 778-1233
Popular bar and eatery behind Bismore Park. See harbormaster for slip availability at Town Docks.
Spanky’s Clam Shack (508) 771-2770
Lively family restaurant with outdoor seating on the harbor near Bismore Park.
Things to See & Do
Cape Cod Maritime Museum (508) 775-1723
Learn about the fascinating history of Cape Cod maritime life and culture at this museum at the head of Hyannis Harbor. Offers wooden boatbuilding demonstrations and hands-on kids activities.
The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum preserves and promotes the legacy of John F. Kennedy, his family, and their deep connection to Cape Cod.
Pirate Adventures (508) 394-9100
Kids will love this swashbuckling adventure aboard the Sea Gypsy, where they look for treasure and engage in a fierce water cannon battle at sea.
Mini-Golf: Hyannis has several mini-golf courses. Among the best is Wild Animal Lagoon, an 18-holer populated by hippos, sharks, rhinos and more!
