While yachtsmen have made Newport a destination for generations, too many of them are so focused on the City by the Sea that they overlook Jamestown, another great location that should be on every Narragansett Bay traveler’s itinerary. Whether you come by car across the Claiborne Pell Bridge (make sure you’ve got your four dollars ready for the toll) or by boat and choose to moor at one of the two excellent marinas here, Jamestown makes for a great — and decidedly more laid-back — daytrip when you need a break from the glitz and glitter of Newport.
The town of Jamestown is situated in the middle of Conanicut Island’s east side, so you’re well-positioned to explore the entire island if you so choose. Short-term dockage is available at the town’s Wood Pile Pier, though you should check in with the police department (401-423-1212) if you want to be gone more than a half-hour or so. This is a great spot for a tie-up, but it is exposed to the swells and waves of the East Passage; the constant creaking and groaning of the docks will make you happy for the chance to stretch your legs a bit!
Jamestown is delightfully conducive to strolling. Just head up Narragansett Avenue (the commercial district is only a couple of blocks long), taking in the businesses lining each side of the street. If you were able to line up longer-term dockage, you might stop for a leisurely meal at Trattoria Simpatico, or if you’re more pressed for time you might choose to grab a sandwich at Slice of Heaven or one of the other eateries here. And while there are some nice galleries to satisfy your finer tastes, Jamestown still offers some of the basics that boaters need, both at the True Value hardware store and at the chandlery that Conanicut Marine operates just up the street from its flagship marina.
If you came by car, or if you’re able to talk one of the locals into giving you a lift, do yourself a favor and head down the island toward Beavertail and Fort Weatherill. Along the way you’ll pass Jamestown Boat Yard, a great small yard that has made a reputation for itself in maintaining and restoring Swan Yachts, in addition to other vessels. From this spot you’ll also be able to get a great view of Clingstone, a private residence built literally on a rock a few hundred yards off the boatyard. It’s the best spot in the bay on a gorgeous summer day, but imagine being there in a Nor’easter!
No matter how you explore Jamestown — by boat, car, bicycle, or on foot — there’s little doubt that you will come away from your visit with a far greater appreciation for what makes life on Narragansett Bay so special for visitors and locals alike.
Photos of Jamestown: A Delightful Daytrip, or Much More
