Here’s a puzzle for you: you want a way to be outside, but not get too close to others and you don’t want to waste time travelling before you get to enjoy the great outdoors. What do you do? Well, many buyers have found a solution: find a house with a private dock for their boat.
A recent article from the Wall Street Journal found that boat sales reached a 13-year high in 2020 thanks to Americans looking for ways to social distance and stay healthy outdoors. With people spending more time at what used to be their summer or vacation homes, it also meant that they could enjoy their boats more, too.
Boston’s North Shore presents many opportunities to make this dream a reality. You can run into the city in the morning and be home in time to take your boat out for a sunset sail.
Ocean Access on the Gold Coast
There is something quintessentially New England in the scene at Manchester Harbor – a view that can be enjoyed all year long at 8 Norton’s Point. This waterfront haven, designed by local architect Stephen Holt and built by Charlie Silva of This Old House, has over 660’ of frontage on the harbor and includes a deep-water dock and 2-story boathouse.
The granite pier at this Gloucester home is the ideal starting point for adventures into Essex Bay and the ocean beyond. The 27.5-acre property at the end of a private country road is an escape into a tranquil setting. From the land or water, you can enjoy the classic coastal scenery that’s been protected by neighboring conservation efforts.
The Smith’s Point enclave in Manchester-by-the-Sea has long been a popular neighborhood, in large part thanks to amenities like deeded rights to an association dock and the private sandy beach. This contemporary oceanfront masterpiece, Kragsyde, is just a short walk away from these offerings. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows or out on one of the outdoor living spaces looking out over this dramatic rocky shoreline, check the conditions before you set out for a day on the water.
A Change of Pace
If smaller crafts are of greater interest to you, a home on a pond may be the right answer. On beautiful Four Mile Pond in Boxford sits a timeless home on just over 2 acres. Down by the water you’ll find a dock that’s perfect for kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and more. After a day exploring, come back to the dock and relax while taking in the bucolic scenery.
Whether it’s on a pond, river, or harbor, there’s a dock (and home!) out there that’s perfect for your lifestyle. Contact Lanse Robb and Sophie Soman to discover more about these properties and others like them on the North Shore.
