East End Boating Series: Greenport

Greenport: North Fork Favorite 

The Village of Greenport has seen many roles during its recorded history of more than 300 years. It served as a long term reservation for Native Americans, an early home to whaling fleets and the ship building industry, a site of rum running, an established “navy” boasting volunteer boat patrols seeking Nazi submarines, and most recently, as a summer destination for tourists.

Large vessels are a common sight in Greenport. 

Located on the north fork of Long Island, Greenport is one of the area’s oldest villages, having been settled in 1682. The folksy town, overlooking Shelter Island, is a favorite among boaters, with its access to a number of local harbors and marinas. 

The three harbors around Greenport include Greenport Village, Stirling Harbor and Gull Pond.  While there are not designated anchorage opportunities, Greenport is a wonderful destination for boaters seeking to enjoy a pleasant ride, or enjoy some land borne activities.

Greenport Village

For daily visitors, the harbor at Greenport Village offers dock space through the town or at a local marina. The water is deep and open, and many larger vessels can be seen transiting. Greenport has one of the east coast’s busiest seaports, so boaters should schedule in-season trips accordingly.

The village marine area is directly across from Dering Harbor on Shelter Island.  The water in front of the village is very deep and can accommodate some very large commercial and private vessels. Smaller boats should be cautioned: while there are no real sand or obstacle hazards in the village entry, larger vessels can create large wakes, and the boat traffic can be intimidating. All boats are urged to adhere to the posted speed limit of 5 mph. 

This is the heart of the village, where transient boaters can tie up and visit Greenport’s friendly streets and purchase provisions or just soak up the engaging maritime atmosphere.  Visitors can enjoy recreational activities, shopping, sailboat tours, museums, and more.

Visitors seeking a meal can choose from more than a dozen eateries, including the historic restaurant Claudio’s, which was established in 1870.

Greenport offers beachgoers tranquil surrounds. 

Stirling Harbor

Stirling Harbor is located just east of the village docks and inside Young’s Point, at the base of the Greenport's Jetty. Unlike the village entry, the Harbor provides greater protection from boat traffic and prevailing winds. Visitors can tie up and walk the short distance into the village.

Upon entry into the Harbor, boaters will note there is ample water. Its entry also displays a memorial to remember those lost at sea.

Visitors will note access to three marinas within the harbor.  The western shoreline is the home of several other local marinas and fishing boats.  On the east shoreline are Stirling Harbor’s largest marinas.  Eastern Long Island Hospital is visible along the northern shoreline.

Many of the smaller marinas don’t allow transients on a regular basis.  Stirling Harbor Marina, Brewers Yacht Yard and Townsend Manor Marina are the only marinas that accept transient boats.

Gull Pond

Gull Pond is located just to the east of the Greenport Jetty and is the home of many local boats. 

There are no marinas or designated anchorages in the pond, but the area is a fun place to visit. Peaceful and serene, Gull Pond is ideal for exploring by dinghy. The pond is home to large vessels and a number of beautiful residences.   

One of the best times to visit Greenport is in the early fall, during the Annual Maritime Festival – September 19-21 this year. It’s a terrific opportunity to visit Greenport’s historic sites, enjoy live music, observe the Festival parade, check out craft vendors and artisans, watch live maritime demonstrations, and sample some of the best food around the area. Modern Yachts will be on hand to display also! Mark your calendars and see the best of what Greenport offers.