MATTAPOISETT SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A classic New England picnic boat—Petrel—glides out of Mattapoisett for intimate Buzzards Bay sails
Private and public charters aboard Petrel offer 2–6 hour outings from Brandt Cove Marina—this guide covers what to expect, how to board, and what to bring.
A classic New England picnic boat—Petrel—glides out of Mattapoisett for intimate Buzzards Bay sails.
Petrel is a custom flush‑deck bass boat built at The Anchorage in Warren, RI and operated as a traditional New England picnic boat out of Mattapoisett. Ideal itineraries on Petrel include sightseeing around Buzzards Bay, a picnic in Tarpaulin Cove, spectating regatta fleets, or serving as a launch for special events such as weddings or bachelorette parties.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A traditional New England picnic boat
Petrel is a custom flush‑deck bass boat built at The Anchorage in Warren, RI, presented and run as a classic picnic boat ideal for close‑quarters sightseeing and on‑water gatherings.
Picnics in coves and regatta vantage points
Typical uses include a sheltered picnic in Tarpaulin Cove and positioning to watch regatta fleets—itineraries emphasize short, scenic hops and on‑water gatherings.
Private charters and limited public sails
Petrel is offered as a private charter priced by the boat (not per passenger); public two‑hour sails are available at a per‑person rate, and the boat accommodates small groups for intimate Buzzards Bay experiences.
What the day feels like
What it feels like to sail Petrel
On Petrel, expect an intimate, small‑group outing aboard a traditional New England picnic boat—sightseeing, anchoring for a shore or cove picnic, or drifting near race fleets for close spectator views. The boat’s size and classic layout shape short, personal cruises rather than large‑boat excursions.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who Petrel works for—and who should plan an alternative
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Trips run from roughly 2 to 6 hours depending on itinerary and whether you book a public two‑hour sail or a longer private charter.
Check the weather and dress accordingly; recommended items include sunscreen, a hat, and closed‑toe shoes.
Petrel is berthed at Brandt Cove Marina (21 DuPont Drive, Mattapoisett, MA); boarding access to the fleet involves a launch or water taxi and requires agility to transfer between dock, launch, and the boat.
Private charters are priced for the boat (not per passenger); public sails are offered at a per‑person rate and Petrel can accommodate up to six passengers.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long are the sails?
Trip lengths range from 2 to 6 hours; public sails are typically two hours.
Where do we meet the boat?
Petrel is located at Brandt Cove Marina, 21 DuPont Drive, Mattapoisett, MA; boarding to the fleet requires a launch or water taxi.
How many people fit on Petrel?
Petrel can accommodate up to six passengers.
Are charters priced per person?
Private charter pricing is for the boat, not per passenger; public sails are sold at a per‑person rate for the scheduled two‑hour sail.
Is boarding difficult?
Accessing the fleet requires taking a launch or water taxi from the dock to your boat and requires agility to move between dock, launch, and boat—plan accordingly.
What kinds of itineraries does Petrel run?
Common itineraries include sightseeing around Buzzards Bay, a picnic in Tarpaulin Cove, spectating regatta fleets, or serving as a launch for events such as weddings or bachelorette parties.