New Bedford Names & Numbers
May 8, 2014
Getting There:
To access New Bedford’s inner harbor—part of the Acushnet River estuary—boaters must first thread their way through a series of ledges and rocks. Pay close attention to the charts and buoys, and keep an eye out for large fishing boats and ferries as you head for Butler Flats Light and the Hurricane Barrier opening.Charts: NOAA 13232, 13230
A potential hazard to be aware of, especially when approaching from the north, is Egg Island ledge. This shallow area holds some big, nasty rocks that lie just under the surface and extend quite close to the main channel. Give it a wide berth.
Once inside the Hurricane Barrier, there is deep water right up to Popes Island and the marinas along the Fairhaven side.
Harbormaster:
- (508) 961-3000
- Port of New Bedford Harbor Contacts
Dockage, Moorings & Service:
- Popes Island Marina (508) 979-1456: This city-run marina offers slips and moorings at the head of the harbor. Moorings are free during the day, $35 per night. Water taxi service provided by Whaling City Launch. Slips have electric and water. Showers, laundry and pump-out available. Gas and diesel are available at the Sea Fuels dock, just north of the ferry terminal, as well as on the Fairhaven side of the harbor.
- Whaling City Moorings (508) 984-4979: Mooring rentals near downtown New Bedford, as well as water taxi service and boat tours.
- Bayline Boatyard (508) 994-2944: Seasonal and transient moorings in the southwest corner of the harbor.
- Niemiec Marine (508) 997-7390: Full-service yard and small marina on the north side of Popes Island. Sometimes has transient slips available.
- CE Beckman Marine Supply (508) 994-9674: Venerable marine supply store in the heart of New Bedford.
- New Bedford Ship Supply (508) 994-2961: Marine supply and hardware store on Front Street, across from State Pier.
- Pump-Out Service (508) 979-1456 or (508) 989-4279: VHF 9 (preferred) or 74
Launch Ramps:
- There are 2 public launch ramps on New Bedford Harbor. One is located in Fairhaven at Pease Park off Middle Street, just south of Rte. 6. This 2-lane ramp has a $7 daily fee and offers 2 floats and all-tide access to the inner harbor. There is parking for some 20 rigs.
- A second ramp is south of downtown New Bedford, off Gifford Street and tucked inside the western arm of the Hurricane Barrier. This 2-lane ramp has a good all-tide access and a long dock for tie-ups. There is ample parking as well. Daily fee is $7.
- A third launch ramp is on Clarks Cove, west of the harbor. It too is a double-lane ramp with parking for 20 rigs. Daily fee is $7.
Getting Around:
- Star Taxi, (508) 996-3393
- Airport Express Direct, (508) 822-7500
Where to Eat:
- Brick Pizzeria (508) 999-4943: Amazing brick-oven pizzeria on Union Street.
- Cork (508) 994-9463: Wine and tapas bar on Front Street, across from the harbor. Outdoor seating in summer.
- Merrill’s: Downtown New Bedford’s only waterfront restaurant serves great seafood and steaks with a view of the fishing fleet.
- No Problemo (508) 984-1081: Authentic Mexican taqueria a few blocks from the Whaling Museum.
- Freestone’s City Grill (508) 993-7477: Popular downtown restaurant and bar featuring appetizers, pizza, fajitas, steaks, seafood, burgers and more.
Cool Shops:
- Arthur Moniz Gallery (508) 997-8644: View the works of talented New England maritime artist Arthur Moniz, across the street from the Whaling Museum.
- Travessia Winery (774) 929-6534: Urban winery producing white and red wines made with grapes grown exclusively in the Southeastern Massachusetts. Open every day for tasting and sales from noon-6 p.m. (contact winery for seasonal hours).
- Calico (508) 999-4147: Vintage shop specializing in women’s clothing from the ‘60’s through ‘80’s, with a focus on dresses. Also carries vintage accessories, bags, shoes, and sunglasses, as well as unique new designer labels.
- Whaleman’s Shipping List (508) 990-3786: Unique shop on Johnny Cake Hill that buys, sells and appraises nautical antiques, books and collectibles.
- Vetu Gifts & Consignment (508) 990-8388: Features a fun and eclectic selection of gifts. Specializes in personalized gifts for babies, photo and personalized jewelry.
Things to See & Do:
- New Bedford Whaling Museum (508) 997-0046: Learn about whales, whaling and the “City that Lit the World” through exhibits and presentations.
- Zeiterion Performing Arts Center (508) 997-5664: Catch live concerts, plays, musicals and more at this historic theater a few blocks from the waterfront.
- Buzzards Bay Coalition Center: Steps from the waterfront, the BBC Center offers interactive exhibits, an extensive library and information on the Buzzards Bay watershed.
- Working Waterfront Festival: An annual, 2-day celebration of the city’s fishing heritage, with great local food, scallop-shucking contests, demonstrations, boat tours and live music.
- AHA! (Art-History-Architecture): Nights are free arts and culture events held the 2nd Thursday of every month in downtown New Bedford.
General Information:
