Discover the story behind Safe Harbor’s innovative floating luxury suites.
REBUILDING
BETTER
In the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias, a commitment to excellence reshaped a marina.
Safe Harbor means more.
SAFE HARBOR WATER MAGAZINE
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
SAFE HARBOR WATER MAGAZINE
More treasured moments.
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
SAFE HARBOR WATER MAGAZINE
More lifelong memories.
A LETTER FROM THE HELM
A message of gratitude from Safe Harbor’s Chief Executive O cer, Baxter Underwood.
WALKING THE DOCKS WITH RIVES POTTS
Passion, integrity, and a legendary work ethic have defined one of Safe Harbor’s most distinguished leaders.
REBUILDING BETTER
In the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias, a commitment to excellence reshaped a marina.
WHAT A CATCH
A big idea for a marquee fishing tournament comes to life with extraordinary results.
WAKE UP ON THE WATER
Discover the story behind Safe Harbor’s innovative floating luxury suites.
A FRESH TAKE
From Newport to North Palm Beach, Belle’s restaurants have built a buzzworthy name.
A BRIGHTER FUTURE
Safe Harbor relentlessly pursues environmental stewardship and the protection of our waterways.
BAY DREAMING
Uncover one of the most picturesque cruising grounds anywhere on the East Coast, the Chesapeake Bay.
IN GOOD COMPANY
Safe Harbor joins forces with premium partners to enhance the Member experience on and o the water.
SAID BEST
What Members are saying about their Safe Harbor experiences.
ALONG THE WAY
Places to explore and moments to share throughout Safe Harbor’s expansive network.
MAP & DIRECTORY
Explore Safe Harbor’s expanding family of premier waterfront locations.
Safe Harbor Water Magazine Volume 2 was produced in partnership with the AIM Marine Group. For more information, email JCRAIG@AIMMEDIA.COM
A LETTER FROM THE HELM
One of our teammates recently said to me, “Safe Harbor is a beautiful thing.” The world is full of challenges, anxieties, and disappointments. And to be certain, Safe Harbor is not perfect. But our organization is striving endlessly to provide our Members with an escape from the ordinary. Even the daily energy spent building Safe Harbor feels like an enormous honor. I believe this is true for at least three reasons:
First, Safe Harbor’s team is made up of remarkable individuals. I’m biased, but it’s hard for me to imagine a more selfless, hard-working, service-oriented group of professionals than the ones that make up Safe Harbor. Our teammates work hard to make Safe Harbor special because of who they are. They have an innate firmness of character. They love what they do, they love where they work, and they love the people they serve. There’s a ton of joy in that.
Second, Safe Harbor’s Members are an incredible segment of customers. They are explorers and adventurers. They are friends and family seeking retreat from busy lives. They are in touch with and protective of the environment, and they are creative, innovative, optimistic, and independent. The individuals who make up Safe Harbor’s Membership are a pleasure to serve.
Third, Safe Harbor’s raison d’etre is inherently aspirational. At its core, our business is about improving the shorelines and harbors on which we operate, and serving our Members so they can create some of the fondest memories of their lives. We’ve linked together an unrivaled network of magnificent waterfront landscapes, many of which are featured in this issue. And it’s on these beautiful pages that our teammates and Members have written some of their greatest stories. We hope this edition of Safe Harbor Water Magazine will inspire you to go out and explore, and to write some epic stories of your own.
With deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve you,
Baxter Underwood, CEO
SAFE HARBOR
THOUGHT LEADER
Walking the docks with RIVES POTTS
The President of Safe Harbor has a focus, work ethic, and passion for boats that inspires the company’s culture.
When the Covid-19 pandemic struck a little more than a year ago, Rives Potts couldn’t get where he needed to go. Flights were grounded and hotels were closed, making it hard for him, as the president of Safe Harbor Marinas, to keep an eye on the company’s 100-plus properties.
“I was in Virginia when it hit, and we have a bunch of marinas all through the Southeast,” Potts says. “I had to get to Dallas, where our headquarters is. I just bought an old car and a mattress from Walmart. It took me three weeks to drive to Texas. I drove to all our marinas and just slept in the car.”
The fact that a corporate leader of Potts’ caliber would turn a white, 10-year-old Chevy Suburban into a makeshift motel doesn’t surprise the people who know him best, not even a little bit. Lexi Gahagan—who met Potts in 1979, has worked with him in the marina business, and sailed with him in two America’s Cup races—says comfort is not a requirement for Potts to get things done.
“He can get by with minimal sleep time and minimal clothes. I’ve seen him show up for a regatta; most people have a
pretty full du el bag, and he’ll show up with one change of clothes for the whole week,” Gahagan says. “When he gets into something, like an America’s Cup campaign, he’s 100 percent in unlike any person I’ve ever seen; not only with his time, but I think anybody who has worked with him sees his work ethic. He drives you to be a better person.
“Talk about leading by example,” Gahagan adds. “I don’t know anybody who can keep up with the guy.”
Potts, who is 72, has led in numerous ways throughout his life, including as the Commodore of the New York Yacht Club. He says the key to success as a leader is not just having passion but being able to transmit it to everyone around you.
“They should want to join in with you as a team,” Potts says. “It’s just got to happen that way, whether it’s a sailboat race or running a company. It takes teamwork fueled by passion.”
SAFE HARBOR
Some of the world’s most celebrated sailors say Potts has always stood out for his work ethic and passion. Dennis Conner, who has won the America’s Cup three times, says, “Rives is successful at everything he does. It is an honor to have him as a friend.”
Gary Jobson, who has raced sailboats with and against Potts, recalls being aboard Ted Turner’s Tenacious with Potts during the Fastnet Race in 1979. A freak storm turned the Celtic Sea into a vicious torrent of 35-foot waves. “It was probably the roughest ocean race on record,” Jobson says. “Only 87 of the 303 boats actually got to the finish line. Fifteen lives were lost, and 23 boats either sank or were abandoned.”
You see the measure of a person during a time of adversity, and that was the time that I saw Rives really step up.” “
Tenacious was on the edge of control, Jobson recalls, and the mainsail needed to come down, or it would have blown apart. Potts, a member of the crew, took charge of getting it done. “It was really something,” Jobson says. “You see the measure of a person during a time of adversity, and that was the time that I saw Rives really step up.
“Rives is just a guy who’s on the job,” he adds. “If it’s on the list, he has to cross it o the list. He’s on the case, and he’s e cient. He doesn’t waste a lot of time and emotion.”
Tenacious at sea during the Fastnet Race in 1979
The Tenacious Crew | August 1979
Some of the world’s most celebrated sailors say Potts has always stood out for his work ethic and passion.
Whenever you’re with him, you don’t have any kind of fear at all. He’s got this. He’s calm, cool and collected. If I’m a little bit afraid, I just look at him and I’m not afraid anymore.”
Potts’ daughter, Landon, says her father’s laser focus and work ethic have been central to her family’s life since she was a little girl. “I’m in a wheelchair, and he’s always made it possible for me to do anything,” she says. “When I was in elementary school, they were going through all these committees about building ramps, and my dad just went out one night and poured cement. Boom—it was done.”
When she was struggling to study for the bar exam in law school, and when her brothers were going through boot camp for the U.S. Marines, Potts would tell them to “suck it up.” He taught them to believe they could do anything they set their mind to achieving.
“He doesn’t want to hear the word can’t,” Landon says. “Things I do in my wheelchair, people look at me like, gosh, I can’t even do that, and I’m able-bodied. Whenever you’re with him, you don’t have any kind of fear at all. He’s got this. He’s calm, cool and collected. If I’m a little bit afraid, I just look at him, and I’m not afraid anymore.”
More than anything else, Potts tries to instill the value of getting things done in a way that is honorable.
“One of the real keys for a manager, an executive, or a leader to build a good organization is to make sure that you recognize people when they do good things,” Potts says. “They need to be rewarded for that. It’s not always monetarily; sometimes it’s a pat on the back or a kind word in front of all their colleagues. You’ve got to be looking for the good in people all the time. There is good in most people, and they should be appreciated.”
Showing that type of appreciation for Safe Harbor employees is what “helps create a culture that marina customers deserve,” says Potts. More than anything else, he says, he tries to instill the value of getting things done in a way that is honorable.
“To me, it’s very simple: You just do the right thing,” he says. “What does that mean? When you look in the mirror at the end of the day, can you say you treated everybody fairly? You treated everybody honestly? You stayed true to your word? To me, that’s the real embodiment of how we all need to act. You should never be cheating somebody else or doing something that’s unfair. A lot of people in business, you read about all these really shrewd people who are trying to beat somebody out of something else, but it’s not necessary to do that. I’m as competitive as anybody else, but if you do the right thing, you’ll succeed.” ▪
Potts at the helm of Carina during the 2019 Transatlantic Race
August 13-15,
Newport, Rhode Island
After Hurricane Isaias landed hard at Safe Harbor South Harbour Village, teamwork brought the marina back online — and rebuilt it stronger for the future.
In early August 2020, as Hurricane Isaias was heading for the Carolinas, David Rogers stepped onto the deck of his home in Charleston, South Carolina. The rain was barely a light drizzle. His wind chimes were practically still.
The storm ended up making landfall north of the state line, near Safe Harbor South Harbour Village in Southport, North Carolina. Rogers, who is Safe Harbor’s Regional Vice President for the Coastal Southeast, got in his truck to head for Southport later that day.
As he drove, he saw some tree limbs down, but not the kind of damage anyone might associate with a
Category 1 hurricane. Stores were open. Lights were on. What he was seeing was disparate from what he was being told about extensive damage at the marina.
“Even on the main road turning into Southport, you wouldn’t have known there was a storm that came through,” Rogers says. “I was getting phone calls from people calling to tell me about the conditions as I was driving in, and I was thinking, what are these people talking about?”
According to various reports, they were likely talking about tornado damage. Isaias appeared to have spun o localized tornadoes that walloped multiple marinas along the Southport shoreline.
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
“The damage was very pronounced,” says Peter Clark, Chief Development O cer for Safe Harbor. “The entirety of the outer face dock had folded in on itself, e ectively closing in the marina basin. We suspect the situation resulted from a combination of the storm surge and extreme wind conditions.”
Prior to Isaias making landfall, the Safe Harbor team had followed the company’s Hazardous Weather Emergency Plan, which outlines preparations and procedures that begin seventy-two hours before a major storm is expected to hit. The procedures include things like timing for shuto of electrical and fuel lines. “We don’t like to shut down the power too early because then you run into problems with things like battery life, which supports the bilge pumps on boats,” Rogers says. “The last thing you want is for the storm to hit and then have boats sinking because the bilge pumps are inoperable.”
The storm collapsed the marina’s 500-foot-long transient dock, which then smashed into an interior dock with slips, trapping about seventy-five percent of the Members’ boats. Dozens upon dozens of boats were a ected. Some were sportfishing charter boats; some others were liveaboards.
Worst of all, the pile of debris was unstable; the Safe Harbor team realized that if they, say, used a chainsaw to cut one area loose, all the rest of the boats could drift and create additional damage, or hurt people. There were electrical, sewer, and gas and diesel lines in the mix. All of it had to be addressed in an orderly way.
“We actually spent about three days reviewing this puzzle,” Rogers says. “We had larger vessels with deep-draft keels that couldn’t be moved except on the high tide. We had to carefully assess each cut with the chainsaw as everything was interconnected. If you touched one thing, it would have a domino e ect.”
Clark says the Safe Harbor team broke the tasks into three phases. The first phase was to assess the damage and develop a strategy through a network of vendors, contractors, and engineering consultants with the immediate goal of unwinding the hornet's nest of boats and dock debris. Phase two was clearing the damage and figuring out how to cobble together temporary dockage. “ We were able to salvage a fair amount of dock sections to fasten together so that we could restore as much temporary dockage as possible for our Members
Patchwork dockage following Hurricane Isaias.
DAVID ROGERS | REGIONAL VP COASTAL SOUTHEAST
We had to carefully assess each cut with the chainsaw as everything was interconnected. If you touched one thing, it would have a domino effect.” “
to secure their vessels. In total, nearly seventy percent of the face dock and thirty percent of the inner basin slips were restored ahead of the pending rebuild,” Clark says.
“ Within a month following the storm, we reopened gas sales, making us the only open fuel dock in the immediate area.”
Phase three was figuring out how to rebuild the marina with long-term improvements. Robbie Freeman, Vice President of Operations for Safe Harbor, says the team had to work mostly within existing permits, since regulatory agencies were backlogged due to the Covid-19 pandemic. If the team had tried for more substantial modifications, the marina could have been shut down for months.
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
“About half of our docks were damaged, so we knew we’d be replacing those,” Freeman says. “That’s when we started talking about what we could do to improve those docks with minor permit modifications.” When the marina reopened in March 2021, boaters found that the transient dock was a hundred feet longer. It was built by Bellingham Marine, which is known for its work at locations such as the Miami International Boat Show. “We went to a much heavier dock system— especially on the outside where the transient dock is,” Freeman says. “And we specified steel pilings and designed their top elevation so that they would be above storm surge water levels. ”
The new transient dock also has an expanded fuel system that allows for in-slip refueling, as well as new pump-out capability along the full length of the dock. “That’s very attractive to transient boaters,” Freeman says. “Once you come in and tie up, you don’t have to wait in line at a fuel dock and move your boat again.”
The old marina also had half-length fingers at its interior slips, along with pilings that snapped in the storm. “You wouldn’t build a marina like that today. You’d build full-length fingers,” Freeman says. “So, we put new fulllength fingers in. It’s so much easier to tie up to.
The new marina has full-length fingers, in-slip refueling and docks built with steel pilings instead of wood to increase their strength.
You can walk down the whole length of the boat on the dock.”
The Safe Harbor team also added an 80-footlong gangway for accessibility requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act and upgraded the marina’s electrical system, which was built 20 years ago, at a time when boats had far less substantial power needs. “Every boat now has air conditioning and other things that require a lot more power,” Freeman says. “We probably doubled the electrical capacity in all the new slips. We brought it up to modern standards for power.”
All in all, the Safe Harbor team says, boaters heading for Safe Harbor South Harbour Village—transients and Members alike—will enjoy an experience that far surpasses what existed previously.
“One of the strengths of being part of Safe Harbor is that we have a lot of people to pitch in and help in situations like this,” Freeman says. “We would not have been able to rebuild this as fast as we did without the resources of being part of a hundred-plus marina network.” ▪
Photography by Gately Williams
David Rogers, Regional Vice President Coastal Southeast
The rebuilt, expanded, & enhanced transient dock at Safe Harbor South Harbour Village
SPOTLIGHT | SAFE HARBOR MARINA BAY
What a
Safe Harbor Marina Bay in Quincy, Massachusetts, plays host to the Boston Bluefin and Striper Cup.
Giants are lurking o the coast of Massachusetts. They prowl the waters both day and night, snacking on herring and mackerel, and they can make an angler’s wildest dreams come true.
Known as bluefin tuna, these massive gamefish can grow to more than 1,000 pounds. Fierce fighters and strongwilled, giant tuna are actually quite approachable. With the right tackle, any crew can get lucky and hook into one of these behemoths. Landing a giant requires a lot of skill, but anglers in search of this species are persistent because they know they may hook a true monster.
Over the last 15 years, the bluefin tuna fishery in New England has continued to produce, with more boats targeting tuna for sport. The one thing missing was a marquee tournament that highlighted the fishery, a topnotch event with evening gatherings to increase the fun factor and camaraderie for participants. That’s where Safe Harbor Marina Bay in Quincy comes in.
Safe Harbor Marina Bay General Manager Tyler Miller met tournament producer Robbie Carter when Carter was fishing with a friend who docked at the marina. They tossed around the idea of hosting a bluefin tuna tournament. Carter grew up around tournaments in the Gulf Coast, where his father ran the Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic—one of the biggest events on the o shore circuit—for decades.
“The tuna fishing up there reminded me of the yellowfin tuna fishing out of Venice, Louisiana,” Carter says, referring to one of the country’s premier tuna fisheries.
“The fishing was good, and it made me wonder if our formula of a tournament with big payouts and high-end dockside activities would work.”
TYLER MILLER | SAFE
The first year, our focus was on finding the contestants and building the event around them.”
Miller saw the potential. The big, powerful bluefin tuna was one draw. He liked the idea of combining it with big prizes and splashy events, including a banquet highlighting some of the skilled chefs at one of Safe Harbor Marina Bay’s eight restaurants. “Put those things together, and I knew that a tournament would create buzz,” Miller says. “I also knew that the size of our marina and its proximity to Boston could turn this event into something serious.”
Safe Harbor Marina Bay is a top-tier facility with 700 slips and a Nantucketstyle boardwalk with waterfront dining and bars. It’s the perfect setting for a big event, and it has a nice viewing area. “We used the Boaters Deck,” Miller says. “We converted this area a couple of years ago and made it really nice with some turf, fire pits, and grills. We set it up with a tent and tables. It became a viewing deck and social area.”
Miller and Carter set out to host the first Boston Bluefin and Striper Classic in early September 2020, but the pandemic threatened to derail the event. Rather than give up on the idea, they decided to keep it small and focus on safety. Using little more than word of mouth for promotion, they were able to field a fleet of nearly 30 boats, and the feedback from participants was extraordinary.
“For our first year, our focus was on finding the contestants and building the event around them,” Miller says. “This year, with Covid restrictions loosening up, we hope to tie more activities into it, including live music, which we didn’t do in 2020 because of restrictions.”
The fishing during the first event lived up to the hype. On the first day of the tournament, the Ivy Jean, a 44-foot Calvin Beal Downeast-style lobster boat, pulled into the harbor with a butterball of a fish.
Using little more than word of mouth for promotion, they were able to field a fleet of nearly 30 boats, and the feedback from participants was extraordinary.
Eric Knight backed the boat up to the dock, and the onlookers waited to see what the giant would weigh. As the tail of the big tuna came o the deck, the fish tipped the scales at a whopping 694 pounds. “When we caught our first fish, we knew it would be a contender,” Knight said. The fish immediately scaled to the top of the leader board, but there were still three days left of fishing action. The team on Ivy Jean was not about to sit on their laurels, but the competition was close.
The weigh-in station stayed busy, with four fish over 600 pounds and five over 500 pounds. When the dust settled, Ivy Jean kept its spot on top, with Shocker finishing in second with a 678-pounder and Reel Estate coming in third with a 635-pound bluefin.
“It was a really well-put-together tournament,” Knight said. “And it o ered one of the bigger pots as far as tournament winnings available on the East Coast for bluefin.”
In 2021, the tournament will include the striped bass component that was nixed in year one. The striper competition will open the event to owners of smaller boats who want to participate but don’t have the vessel to head o shore. Striped bass reign as the kings of inshore fishing in Boston Harbor and right o Quincy, especially in late summer, when the tournament is scheduled. This is the time of year when bigger bass can be lured out of deeper water, most often with live bait.
“We have plenty of fishermen in the marina who go after striped bass, but also a lot of families,” Miller says. “Not everyone is comfortable going o shore for tuna, but you can go right outside the marina, fish along the breakwall and catch striped bass.”
The 2021 Boston Bluefin & Striper Classic is slated for August 27 through September 4. Safe Harbor Members receive discounted dockage for the tournament, invitations to special events, and up-close access to the weigh-in station.
“We’ve got quite a few people coming back,” Miller says. “Feedback was very positive. We weren’t able to put the full force of Safe Harbor behind it last year, so this year’s event will be even better.” ▪
Photography by Fred Salinas
TOP OF THE LEADERBOARD Ivy Jean’s crew (L to R): Max Day, Nate Stevens, Zach Hannah, & Eric Knight
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wake up water the on
Safe Harbor Marinas rolls out a fleet of luxury floating suites that provide Members and their guests with unparalleled overnight accommodations on the water.
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
Many boaters would agree that best kind of vessel has room for eight guests when it’s underway but sleeps only two overnight. Entertaining aboard and sharing the cruising lifestyle with friends and family is what boating is all about, but sometimes, even with close friends (or your in-laws), you don’t necessarily want to share your sleeping space.
A great day on the water can fly by in the blink of an eye. Guests tend to arrive later in the morning, you head out to the cove for lunch, and the afternoon is filled with water sports, swimming and long leisurely dinghy rides. Before you know it, you’re back home at your Safe Harbor homeport, where you’re grilling dinner and toasting to good friends against a pink and orange sunset. Wouldn’t it be nice to stay the night, you think to yourself?
Now you can. Safe Harbor Marinas o ers an option for Members and their guests to stay in a luxury suite at the marina, and let the good times continue to roll.
Safe Harbor launched its first Water Suites in Charleston, South Carolina, at Safe Harbor Charleston City, in December 2020. The next iteration was introduced at Safe Harbor West Palm Beach in April of 2021, and the third (coming this summer) will be based at Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard in Newport, Rhode Island.
The Water Suites are designed and constructed in-house by Safe Harbor’s own master craftsmen at Safe Harbor New England Boatworks in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. Built on a catamaran hull to support the structure and create a stable platform, the vessel delights visitors with the gentle rocking motion that is so appealing when sleeping on the water. The 60-foot structure boasts two separate suites, complete with concierge services, and can be reserved exclusively for Safe Harbor Members and their guests.
Safe Harbor Water Suites combine chic nautical overnight accommodations with private upper-deck terraces for an unforgettable waterfront experience.
The suites themselves, coupled with our uniquely curated local experiences, will create an unmatched adventure.”
Each suite features a king-sized bed, large head and shower, generous living room, and private upper deck. The luxury touches and comfortable interior are only enhanced when you venture to the upper deck to take in the best views in the house.
The benefits of the Water Suites include more than just the opportunity for a good night’s sleep. There are additional premium amenities available to guests, such as access to a coveted Barton & Gray yachting experience or to luxury Beau Lake paddleboards, so Members can enjoy one of the most peaceful ways to connect with nature. Some locations provide guests with complimentary electric Moke vehicles, known for their unique combination of fun and convenience and for being a fashionable way to get around town.
“The genesis of the project was to create another amenity for our Members and to further enhance the experience they can have within our network,” says Isabella Ridall, Vice President of Hospitality for Safe Harbor Marinas. “If you’re a Safe Harbor Member at any of our locations, you and your guests have exclusive access to our Water Suites. We want to create a luxury experience on the water. The suites themselves, coupled with our uniquely curated local experiences, will create an unmatched adventure.”
Safe Harbor has always striven to curate a waterfront lifestyle experience so enjoyable that its Members will never want to leave. “With the Water Suites,” says Ridall, “now you won’t have to.” ▪
Photography by Maaike Bernstrom & Patrick Michael Chin
Adventure in style with vintage-inspired Beau Lake paddleboards & Moke eVehicles.
Barton & Gray o ers Members a captained & catered Hinckley yachting experience.
A unique restaurant concept that found a loyal following in Newport, Rhode Island, is now enticing diners at a second location in North Palm Beach.
SAFE HARBOR LIFESTYLE
Isabella Ridall was a 20-year-old undergraduate student working a summer job at the shipyard her family owned in Newport, Rhode Island, when the decision was made to open a cafeteria-style eatery for employees. Among the details to sort out was a name for the place. The subject elicited a lively debate among members of her clan. “I am one of four siblings and the only girl, so the family joke became that only one name could work, and it was mine,” she says.
Belle’s Café opened in 2002, in a converted electrical shop at Newport Shipyard, which at the time was owned by Ridall’s father, Charlie Dana. Dana was instrumental in making the fullservice marina home to one of the country’s top superyacht repair and refit facilities. Belle’s Café was originally designed to give the hard-working yard sta access to fresh, simple, greattasting food for breakfast and lunch. With an open kitchen, counter service, and friendly sta , the atmosphere was upbeat and social. Customers would pick up plates of crowd-pleasing favorites such as the New England-style Twin Lobster Rolls and Crab Cake Benedict and carry them down to the water for a casual meal.
Over time, that vibe drew new customers, including yacht owners berthed at the marina and tourists visiting Newport, who’d mix and mingle with the yard sta . It wasn’t unusual to find a line for food that was 50 people deep. “It became the ‘it’ place in Newport, because it o ered something no other place had,” says Ridall, who is now Vice President of Hospitality for Safe Harbor Marinas.
When Safe Harbor Marinas acquired the shipyard in 2019, its leadership team had plans for the Belle’s brand. Impressed by the reputation of the restaurant and its following in Newport, the company wanted to expand the restaurant’s concept to a second location at Safe Harbor Old Port Cove in North Palm Beach. The new restaurant would replace the existing Sandpipers, and it would be called Belle’s Bar & Grill.
Ridall was tapped to lead the e ort, with the help of Belle’s mainstay, Allen Ferreira. In 2005, Ferreira joined the café in Newport as a line cook before working his way up to General Manager and Head Chef.
“The Safe Harbor Old Port Cove location is very di erent from Newport because it isn’t in a shipyard and doesn’t have the same activity, but Allen and I set our sights on bringing some of the best things from Newport to South Florida, including reshaped menus and a fun, casual atmosphere,” says Ridall. “At the same time, we wanted to elevate the service at Belle’s Café, to strengthen the connection between the two venues.”
It didn’t take long for Ridall and Ferreira to make improvements at both locations, even with the considerable challenges of operating two restaurants through a global pandemic.
At Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard, for instance, the social distancing protocol put in place for Covid-19 gave management at Belle’s Café the incentive to start table service. Prior to 2020, the restaurant was still operating
Impressed by the reputation of Belle’s Café and its following in Newport, Safe Harbor wanted to expand the restaurant’s concept to a second location at Safe Harbor Old Port Cove.
Belle’s Café, Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard
Allen Ferreira & Isabella Ridall
with counter service only. Now, there is room for fourtytwo guests to be seated inside, and one-hundred fifty more outside overlooking the marina. Belle’s Café will also introduce a dinner menu for the first time this summer which will be complemented with a newly acquired beer and wine license. “Belle’s is better than it’s ever been before,” says Ridall. “We still serve the fresh, locally sourced food we’re known for, only now guests don’t have to place an order at the counter and wait an hour for the meal. Instead, a server can take your order and bring you a glass of wine while you wait.”
At the same time, Ridall and Ferreira have cultivated a light, social atmosphere in the dining room at Belle’s Bar & Grill in North Palm Beach, which seats about one-hundred fifty guests. And the duo is making plans for outdoor seating with water views for as many as fifty guests. They’ve also crafted a new, full cocktail menu and fine-tuned menus for lunch and dinner.
ROOM WITH A VIEW Belle’s Bar & Grill overlooks Safe Harbor Old Port Cove.
A FRESH LOOK The newly improved Belle’s Café at Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard still features nautically inspired décor & New England charm.
What makes the cuisine distinctive? We keep the food current. We keep it fresh. And we make everything in-house.” “
What makes the cuisine distinctive? “We keep the food current. We keep it fresh. And we make everything in house,” says Ferreira, who is now the Director of Food and Beverage for both locations. “We serve simple, honest food that is really good quality.” Signature dishes at the Florida location include Belle’s Burger, Swordfish Piccata, and the North Palm Beach Salad, with jumbo lump crab, shrimp, chopped romaine, roasted corn, avocado and sunflower kernels. Diners in The Sunshine State also like the Newport Lobster Roll and New England clam chowder.
Both restaurants cater to the boating community, and food can be delivered right to your slip should you prefer to dine on board your boat. “We’re all boat people,” says Ridall. “It’s nice to relax and kick up your feet on the aft deck. You’re with the people you like in the place you want to be. Dockside service seemed like a fun idea … an amenity, but also something that fits into the culture and enhances the experience.”
Ridall and Ferreira have accomplished a lot in a short time, but they are not resting on their laurels. New décor is being unveiled at both locations, and it will be tastefully coordinated to create a consistent look for the Belle’s brand. And, that brand could expand in the years to come. When Safe Harbor Marinas acquired Newport Shipyard, the restaurant was an attractive part of the property. “We’ve always thought of Belle’s as the heart and soul of our operation,” explains Ridall. “It brings people together, and in a strange way, it’s reflective of our commitment to quality in other parts of the business. We don’t want someone to have a bad meal and then leave with the wrong impression of the whole operation. It raises the bar for the whole team and hopefully helps make the experience that much more special for everyone involved.” ▪
Photography by Maaike Bernstrom & Gately Williams
Adventure looks good on you
Shop our line of premium nautical gear fit for days at sea and on land.
A. Men’s Safe Harbor/Helly Hansen Crew Vest Waterproof | Navy B.
B. Women’s Safe Harbor/Helly Hansen Crew Hooded Jacket Waterproof | Navy
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
A. Women’s Safe Harbor/Helly Hansen Crew Vest Waterproof | Navy (pictured), White
B. Men’s Safe Harbor/Helly Hansen Crew Hooded Jacket Waterproof | Navy A. B.
C. Custom Safe Harbor Pezzo Throw by Matouk Soft Brushed Cotton | Light Grey | 50” x 70” D.
F. C.
D. Safe Harbor Engraved Lismore Crystal Tumbler by Waterford 12oz Double Old Fashioned (sold as pair)
E. Special Edition Safe Harbor Patch Hat by Travis Mathew One-size Snapback | White, Black, Grey (pictured)
F. Recycled Sail Tote by Safe Harbor & Sea Bags Hand-spliced Rope Handles | White (pictured), Navy | 14” x 6” x 18”
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
A BRIGHTER FUTURE
Safe Harbor is full speed ahead on the business of environmental stewardship.
One of the joys of cruising is the opportunity to enjoy the water. When anchored in a pretty cove on a warm summer afternoon, there’s nothing quite like the feeling you get when you dive o the boat’s transom for a swim in cool, refreshing saltwater. That’s as good as it gets, unless, of course, you spot garbage floating on the surface. And then? Spell. Instantly. Broken. Pollution has a tendency to blemish an otherwise beautiful day.
The team at Safe Harbor New England Boatworks is a tireless advocate for clean water. Three years ago, this location began the process to be recognized as a Zero Plastics Marina; that is, a Rhode Island facility that pledges to commit to plastic prevention activities in Narragansett Bay and o the state’s coastline. This Safe Harbor property is the largest marina in Rhode Island to achieve the designation.
Safe Harbor New England Boatworks is a tireless advocate for clean water and plastic prevention initiatives.
The Zero Plastics Marina initiative is a partnership between the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association and marina operators and relies on the e orts of volunteers. “The checklist to meet this initiative was pretty overwhelming, but for the most part we were already doing most of the things on the list,” says Samantha Nelson-Medeiros, Dockmaster at Safe Harbor New England Boatworks.
One year after getting certified, the marina was acquired by Safe Harbor. Today, the company continues to make thoughtful investments in conservation. For instance, in an e ort to clean up the grounds new asphalt was installed, and as a result the environment is protected because runo is limited.
From its founding, Safe Harbor has always had a keen focus on environmental stewardship. Now, with 100-plus properties in its portfolio and over 50,000 Members, the company is in a place where it can lay the groundwork for broader network-wide initiatives.
Among those initiatives are collaborations with organizations like Seabin and 4ocean to install harbor skimmers at multiple locations—these systems constantly remove waste from the waterways. And there are e orts
It’s all about two relationships: the Members and the environment. If we can align those right, we’ll continue to give Members a great experience.”
to replace old, power-hungry lights with upgraded LED units at all properties, and expand solar power energy.
The Safe Harbor team is also collaborating with thought leaders in environmental stewardship, including H. Curtis “Curt” Spalding, a Professor at Institute at Brown for Environment and Society, who served as Regional Administrator of the EPA under the Obama Administration. “Curt is truly a trailblazer in the sustainability space,” says Safe Harbor’s Chief Resource Officer, James Phyfe. “I am constantly astounded by the leadership role he has taken in helping Safe Harbor take substantive steps in support of its commitment to the environment and the future of our waters.”
In a consultant role, Spalding is creating a strategic plan for Safe Harbor so it can align its environmental goals with forecasts for growth as a company, which include creating new services and experiences for Members. Part of his job entails making site visits to locations like Safe Harbor New England Boatworks, where he can learn about best practices from employees.
Spalding has a perspective that not all consultants in his position share: As the Executive Director of Save the Bay, he oversaw a comprehensive cleanup effort on Narragansett Bay to make it healthier than it’s been in 100 years. In addition, Spalding is a sailor who keeps his boat at a Safe Harbor location, so he’s a Member too.
“Truly I wouldn’t be doing this with just anybody. I have a relationship with Safe Harbor,” says Spalding. “As Members, we want to make sure the environment is part of our North Star, our vision for the future. And, I see the same thinking in the senior leadership at Safe Harbor. It’s all about the marinas’ relationships with the Members and the environment. If we can align those right, we’ll continue to give Members a great experience.
“Yeah, this is going to be fun,” adds Spalding. “I can’t think of a better company to engage in this work with.”
In the coming months, Spalding will help Safe Harbor finetune its environmental focus for the future. That could be plastic removal, reducing the company’s overall carbon footprint or mitigating stormwater runo . Providing solutions for the whole marina network, he says, will be a challenge. “The marinas are all very di erent, and that’s one of the challenges we have to meet to do this well. You can’t cookie cut this thing very easily. On the other hand, there are things that are very common, and we’re working on that. The puzzle is already starting to come together.”
At Safe Harbor New England Boatworks, NelsonMedeiros had to implement some changes to get certified as a plastics-free facility and become a clean marina. That included the installation of increased signage to alert Members to the best disposal methods. In addition, each Member received a booklet with information on the marina’s best management practices. “Communication was key,” says Nelson-Medeiros. “It’s something that we still enforce daily, but it’s nice that all who work here know we’re a clean marina. So, if somebody throws shrinkwrap from their boat into the garbage, our employees can educate that person about the alternatives.”
Members appreciate the conscientious reminders, she says, because, let’s face it, it behooves everyone to keep the waterways clean. Nobody likes a blemish on a beautiful day.
“The water is part of the boating experience,” says Spalding. “It isn’t just about the docks or the bathrooms or the customer service people receive. It’s also about the water they put their boat on.” ▪
Samantha Nelson-Medeiros & Curt Spalding
4ocean harbor skimmer at Safe Harbor Old Port Cove
One of the most beloved cruising grounds on earth, the Chesapeake Bay is naturally beautiful, culturally diverse, and highly accessible for boaters.
It’s a placid morning on a remote, marsh-rimmed creek. As you toss the dock lines and get underway, the sun sends wisps of sunlight through a grove of loblolly pines. A great blue heron stalks the shallows as a flock of Canada geese touches down nearby. Around the bend, a deadrise workboat motors along, barely making a wrinkle in the water as its skipper works his crab traps.
This is a common scene around the entire 200-mile length of the Chesapeake Bay, one of the most accessible and picturesque cruising grounds on the East Coast. Whether you prefer a peaceful cove or the rush and buzz of a more urban locale, the Chesapeake has something for most boat owners. Safe Harbor Marinas operates eight well-appointed properties on the Bay, each strategically situated near the most popular cruising destinations.
The Bay is one of the more forgiving places to cruise on the East Coast. Tides and tidal currents are minimal, and the weather is generally docile during prime cruising season, though prudent mariners will always keep a weather eye on the sky. Luckily, when the breeze pipes up or a storm looms, a protected creek or slough are often not far away. Depths here can be shallow, but fortunately most of the Chesapeake’s bottom is lined with soft mud or sand. Thus, if a deep-draft vessel goes aground it’s seldom an emergency and more an inconvenience.
THINGS TO DO
Boaters come to the Bay in large part because there’s so much to do on the water. Fishing and crabbing are quintessential activities in Chesapeake Country and are highly accessible to just about any type of boat. If you’re new to fishing and crabbing, most tackle shops will have the gear you need, and sta can tell you how to use it and where and when to go. There’s nothing quite as satisfying as steaming and then picking a mess of blue crabs you caught yourself, or grilling up a nice piece of white perch or striped bass taken with your own rod.
Boat owners with a penchant for watersports will find plenty of calm, protected creeks and tributaries to shred up while waterskiing, wakeboarding or towing tubes. There are many great spots for kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding, too. You won’t have to spend too much time on the water to realize the Chesapeake is a hub for sailing, whether for cruising, daysailing or competitive racing. If racing is your thing, research programs that are available through the local sailing or yacht clubs. The more casual types of racing are the midweek evening race series, which usually start at around 6 p.m. and are inclusive to just about any make and model of sailboat.
Cruising, of course, is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay, whether you’re traveling as a couple or as a family with young children. Gunkholing— the local term for exploring and anchoring in newly found spots—is a great way to find some peace and quiet. It’s also fun to explore new port towns, many of which have something kids and adults can enjoy.
From crabbing and fishing to watersports like wakeboarding, kayaking and competitive sailing, the Bay offers many things to do on the water.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge is a popular destination for cruisers & anglers alike.
LAY OF THE LAND
Cruisers often divide the Chesapeake Bay into three areas. Uno cially, the Upper Bay runs from the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal (C&D) to the Chesapeake Bay Bridges; the Middle Bay from Annapolis southward to Solomons, Maryland; and the Southern Bay from the south shore of the Patuxent River to the mouth of the Bay.
Among the three regions, the Middle Bay is most actively explored by boat. One of this area’s most popular cruising spots is the state capital of Annapolis on the Western Shore, home to the U.S. Naval Academy, the Maryland State House and St. Johns College. Along with its creeks and central harbor, the city has a diverse mix of historic, suburban and upscale neighborhoods, and life here revolves largely around the water. Other popular Middle Bay ports include the South and West rivers, Rhode River, Deale, Chesapeake Beach and Solomons, Maryland.
Life here revolves largely around the water.
On the opposite side of the Bay is Maryland’s Eastern Shore, which has a number of prime cruising locales. One of the best is the historic town of St. Michaels, where you’ll find the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, shops, microbreweries, restaurants, marine facilities and plenty of places to walk and explore.
Oxford, Maryland, is a quieter port south of St. Michaels with a more laid-back feel and a reputation for being a place to unwind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Walk its waterfront park in the shade of centuries-old trees, take a ride on the local Oxford-Bellevue Ferry or pop into one of the local dining establishments for a taste of local seafood. For scenery and beauty, tuck into any one of the creeks o the Choptank River or Eastern Bay. The Chester River, accessible from Eastern Bay via Kent Narrows, also has quiet, pretty places to drop the hook or tie up.
Dock at Safe Harbor Annapolis in the heart of the city, just minutes from the U.S. Naval Academy & St. John’s College.
CHANGE OF SCENERY
Once you enter the Upper Bay, the scenery gradually begins to change. You’ll see industry and large population centers like Baltimore, which stands to the west, billowing steam into the air. It’s an excellent place to visit by boat. Tie up and then go ashore to explore with the family.
Between Baltimore and Havre de Grace, Maryland, at the head of the Bay, are a mix of rivers and creeks with suburban communities and smaller towns. Back, Middle, Gunpowder and Bush rivers are worth a look. Havre de Grace—quaint, quiet and scenic—lies at the mouth of the Susquehanna River, which provides the largest supply of fresh water to the Chesapeake Bay.
The upper Eastern Shore of Maryland comes into view once you clear the Chester River heading north. The Chester is a fine, long river with gorgeous coves, open expanses of loblolly pine forests and marshland. As you travel north, the land begins to rise in elevation, and trees and scenes of wild green far outnumber any signs of civilization. But the area between the mouth of the Chester River and the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal is a true gem, punctuated by some of the most scenic rivers and gunkholes on the bay. Don’t miss Rock Hall, a salty watermen’s town.
The big upper Eastern Shore rivers come next. There’s the Sassafras, with the boating center of Georgetown, Maryland, upstream, and the wide and expansive Bohemia River. The Elk River is the gateway to the C&D Canal where you’ll keep an eye out for large ships. A nice stopover is Chesapeake City, a town split in two by the canal but an interesting place to visit.
Concord Point Lighthouse in Havre de Grace overlooks the Susquehanna River flowing into the Chesapeake Bay.
Safe Harbor Bohemia Vista located on the peaceful Bohemia River.
There’s bound to be a river, creek, harbor, town or city that aligns with your style of cruising on the Chesapeake Bay.
DOWN SOUTH
The Lower Bay features some of the widest, most open expanses of water and has long rivers that drive deep into the Western Shore. Deltaville, Yorktown and Hampton, Virginia, are well-known towns at the mouths of these rivers and all cater to boaters.
The Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia are known for their marshy shorelines, white sand beaches and unique places such as Smith and Tangier islands which can only be reached by boat. They are home to watermen, but the communities welcome cruisers. Other destinations on the Eastern Shore include Crisfield, Maryland, and Onancock and Cape Charles, Virginia. At the end of the run is Norfolk, Virginia, the gateway to the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and home to the largest U.S. Naval base. It’s a popular stopover for boats making an o shore hop in the Atlantic Ocean.
ACT LIKE A LOCAL
As you’re making your way around the bay, you’ll find residents are proud of the area’s culture, and if there’s one thing most share in common, it’s a love of blue crab. Inside the crab’s armored exterior is sweet, rich meat that requires patience to extract, but that’s part of the fun. Restaurants steam the crabs and pile them with spicy seasoning before laying them out on butcher-papercovered tables where diners dive in and crack the critters open. It’s an activity best enjoyed waterside with a cold pitcher of suds. Well-known crab-cracking joints include Cantler’s Riverside Inn in Annapolis, The Crab Claw in St. Michaels, Nick’s Fish House in Baltimore, Harris Crab House in Kent Narrows and Waterman’s Crab House in Rock Hall.
Whether you have two days, two weeks or two months, the Chesapeake Bay is one fine piece of water. There’s bound to be a river, creek, harbor, town or city that aligns with your style of cruising. The best part is you can spend many years exploring this iconic cruising ground and see something new during every adventure. ▪
Explore the water with us
INTRODUCING
Complimentary access to premium vessels and more as part of your Safe Harbor Membership
Premiering at Safe Harbor Pier 121 | Lake Lewisville, TX
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SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
SAFE HARBOR LIFESTYLE
Safe Harbor’s partnerships continue to provide Members access to premium brands, experiences, and more.
IN GOOD COMPANY
It’s often said that we are judged by the company we keep. Safe Harbor’s partnership portfolio is no exception. In August 2019, Safe Harbor began to focus on developing brand partnerships that complemented boating and waterfront lifestyle. Since then, it has cultivated relationships with many well-respected names, including Helly Hansen, Wheels Up, Amazon, and BMW, to name a few. These premium brands not only lead their respective industries, but epitomize both excellence and innovation. Those characteristics are also core to Safe Harbor’s story. That alignment in values has encouraged a number of synergistic partnerships in which the brands have coauthored ways to enrich how Members spend time on the water.
“Our partnership e orts are consistently focused on elevating the Member value proposition, enhancing the Member experience, and supporting their passion for the yachting lifestyle,” explains Rebecca LeBlanc, Safe Harbor’s Vice President of Partnership and Sponsorships.
As one of Safe Harbor’s first partners, Helly Hansen Newport provides Members exclusive access to their premium line of products, from boat shoes and quick-dry tops to hiking boots and rainwear. The company, LeBlanc says, is an iconic sailing brand that offers professionalgrade performance gear. She adds, “We know that’s the kind of premium apparel our Members actively seek out.”
Jay Lasky, Owner of Helly Hansen Newport, agrees with the sentiment. “Safe Harbor has upped the game for the marina industry tenfold over the last several years. I think anybody who keeps their boat at a Safe Harbor location knows they are going to have a quality experience, and in today’s world, that is the bar. You’re looking for a great experience whether you’re retail shopping or docking the boat. We provide a superior product that is in line with the experience you’re going to have on your boat.”
Safe Harbor has also orchestrated unique ways to save valuable time for its Members. Recently, the brand collaborated with the world’s largest online retailer, Amazon, to bring Members a safe, quick, and efficient way to receive packages.
Amazon Lockers are secure, self-service kiosks that allow Members to ship packages to select Safe Harbor locations. After a day on the water, Members are able to pick up their package at a time that is convenient for them, saving unnecessary hassle, especially for those cruising throughout the network.
“This innovative partnership is the first of its kind in both our industries. We are thrilled to provide a marina amenity that creates accessibility like never before.” Litsa Darby, Safe Harbor Senior Manager of Partnerships explains.
TRAILBLAZERS Safe Harbor and Amazon launched their partnership with the first locker at Safe Harbor Cabrillo Isle in San Diego, CA.
If we can work with high-caliber brands who are excited about finding mutually beneficial ways to enhance that [waterfront] lifestyle, then we are doing something right.”
Safe Harbor is the first marina group to partner with Amazon Locker, and the number of lockers at Safe Harbor locations is continuing to expand with twenty currently active and more to come throughout Safe Harbor’s portfolio.
Safe Harbor’s e forts to help its Members save time don’t end with Amazon paackages. In 2020, Safe Harbor partnered with leading private jet charter brand Wheels Up to give its Members access to the safest, most consistent, and highest-quality aviation solution available. Since the launch, Members are taking advantage of Wheels Up’s exclusive Safe Harbor package as a way to spend less time traveling and more time on the water with family and friends.
Most recently, Safe Harbor has matched its premium air travel partner with the luxury automotive brand, BMW. Through a new partnership, Members will have the opportunity to drive the latest BMW models while experiencing a lifestyle of sustainability with the automaker’s new fleet of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
Moving forward, LeBlanc says Safe Harbor is continuing to actively seek out partners who align with both the company’s core values and its mission to enhance the Member experience. “At the end of the day, being on the water is a lifestyle,” LeBlanc says. “If we can work with high-caliber brands who are excited about finding mutually beneficial ways to enhance that lifestyle, then we are doing something right.” ▪
SAID BEST
Safe Harbor is entirely dedicated to helping its Members and guests create memorable experiences, from the first moment they’re on property until the very last. Here are just a few of those stories from around the network.
“
I’m a Wall Street guy and customer service has always been paramount in the way we deliver to our clients. It’s so rare that I get it returned to me. The service at Safe Harbor was fantastic. There was no inconvenience. Everything was spotless and clean. Everyone was smiling and asking how they could help.”
Debbie Davis is the number one reason we’re there. We have other locations that would be more convenient, but I wouldn’t change. You sometimes have managers who sit in their office and hold court. She’s out there emptying the trash cans. It just shows consideration for the people who are paying the bills. Those small things are huge. It makes you want to go down there.”
There has been a direct improvement in the infrastructure. Safe Harbor upgraded the power on the docks, they’ve upgraded the docks and the pilings, and they’re in the process of upgrading the hardstanding area for repairs.”
along the way
Places to expore and moments to share throughout Safe Harbor’s expansive network of marinas and experiences.
The Safe Harbor family of marinas is the largest of its kind anywhere in the world. Perhaps more intriguing than Safe Harbor’s sheer size is the fact that they have built the first true boating network, and the number of locations within that network is expanding with virtually every passing month. In turn, Members are seeing their opportunities to explore the water grow, because with Safe Harbor, Membership at home port includes privileges at every port in the network, both near and far.
From fuel discounts to complimentary transient nights to lifestyle experiences, Safe Harbor Membership benefits extend to more than a hundred locations, giving boaters a home on the water no matter where they are inspired to explore.
And inspiration abounds throughout the Safe Harbor network. Explore the maritime Mecca of Michigan’s Nautical Mile during your Great Loop journey, discover the quaint coastal communities along Long Island Sound, or indulge in Charleston’s world-renowned Lowcountry culinary scene as you cruise the Carolina Coast. All of these adventures are within reach from the premier ports of the Safe Harbor family. Ultimately, whether you’re a cruiser, a day tripper, or an inland lake boater, Safe Harbor has created a network that will expand your boating horizons. As a mariner, is there anything better?
Here’s a look at some top Safe Harbor stops in the Southeast, Midwest, and Northeast. Whether you’re planning a short weekend cruise or the trip of a lifetime, these are exceptional waypoints along the way.
southeast
Safe Harbor Charleston City | South Carolina
SAFE HARBOR CHARLESTON CITY
Charleston, SC
Few cities are as charming as Charleston, South Carolina. With striking architecture, world-renowned cuisine, lively nightlife, a mild climate and islands o the coast, this town in the heart of the Lowcountry is a boater’s paradise.
Safe Harbor Charleston City is perhaps best known for its MegaDock that hosts yachts up to 455 feet, although the marina caters to boats of all sizes and provides Members easy access to the historic city. Five-thousand boats occupy its transient slips each year, where passengers can take advantage of Wi-Fi, showers, laundry, shore power, fresh-water hookups and cable TV. The fuel dock is open 23 hours a day, providing more than a million gallons of diesel each year from high-speed pumps. For basic provisions, the Sea Store is open until 10 p.m.
Two restaurants o er dine-in and take-out services. Visit the Marina Variety Store Restaurant for salads, sandwiches, seafood, wine and cocktails, or stop by Salty Mike’s Deck Bar for burgers, wings and apps. But to truly experience Charleston is to taste some of the world-class cooking that’s served up in its restaurants. The marina’s courtesy van transports Members downtown to dine, shop and experience the city.
With striking architecture, world-renowned cuisine, lively nightlife, a mild climate and islands off the coast, this town in the heart of the Lowcountry is a boater’s paradise.
SAFE HARBOR PORT ROYAL
Port Royal, SC
Named after the adjacent Port Royal Sound—the seconddeepest natural harbor on the East Coast with several rivers o ering unique cruising opportunities—the town of Port Royal, South Carolina, is a community-oriented destination that appeals to boaters, history bu s and nature lovers. At Safe Harbor Port Royal, Members can experience the best of this Lowcountry town while enjoying upscale amenities and service.
The marina welcomes boats up to 120 feet and provides Members with Wi-Fi, pump-out services, shore power, fresh-water hookups and boat lifts. The fuel dock is open daily, as is the ship’s store. Members will also enjoy complimentary access to the nearby pool, spa, and sauna.
The on-site waterfront restaurant, Marker 224, is located in a newly renovated building. It serves seafood, salads and burgers, plus craft cocktails and wines. Members can also utilize the onsite fishing charter services.
In downtown Port Royal—where Spanish, French and English explorers all attempted to lay claim some 450 years ago—there’s a community beach, boardwalk, observation tower and walking trails, including the Cypress Wetlands Nature Trail, where you can observe local wildlife. In Old Village, visitors can experience the town’s historic charm while enjoying street music events. Visit Port Royal in April for the soft-shell crab festival, or October for the community oyster roast.
Safe Harbor Charleston City
Safe Harbor Port Royal
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
SAFE HARBOR BEAUFORT
Beaufort, SC
The second-oldest city in South Carolina after Charleston, 500-year-old Beaufort is known for its antebellum architecture and historic sites. Today, the harbor town on Port Royal Island is also renowned for its beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures and vibrant downtown area. Just steps away from downtown is Safe Harbor Beaufort.
The marina welcomes boats up to 150 feet and o ers complimentary Wi-Fi, pump-out, shore power, fresh water, laundry and more. The fuel dock and ship’s store are open daily, and Members enjoy convenient slip-side docking.
Thanks to the beautiful surrounding waterways and historic downtown area, Members won’t be spending much time at the dock. After a day spent cruising the Beaufort River, boaters can tie up in the slip and take a short walk to downtown, where moss-draped oaks line the streets and the waterfront community bustles with activity. Picnic at the city park or dine at one of the many restaurants overlooking the river to experience the delicious seafood for which Beaufort is known. Travel a bit farther into town to shop or visit historic sites such as the Beaufort History Museum, National Cemetery and Arsenal.
Safe Harbor Beaufort
Safe Harbor South Harbour Village
Southport celebrates maritime culture and offers boaters miles of waterways to explore in every direction.
SAFE HARBOR SOUTH HARBOUR VILLAGE
Southport, NC
One of the most unique and sought-after coastal communities in North Carolina, Southport celebrates maritime culture and o ers boaters miles of waterways to explore in every direction. Safe Harbor South Harbour Village puts Members in the heart of the action, in wellprotected slips that are close to downtown.
After sustaining damage from Hurricane Isaias, Safe Harbor South Harbour Village has been completely rebuilt and now features a new transient dock that accommodates boats up to 200 feet. The marina o ers WiFi, cable TV, pump-out, shore power, fresh-water hookups and drive-up parking. The fuel dock is open daily, and the on-site dog park ensures the four-legged members of your crew are cared for.
There are two waterfront restaurants: Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill and Joseph’s Italian Bistro. The former serves casual fare with a focus on seafood, while the latter o ers high-end Italian cuisine and an enticing wine list.
From Safe Harbor South Harbour Village, boaters can access the Intracoastal Waterway, Cape Fear River, Elizabeth River and the Atlantic Ocean. Southport is surrounded by small islands and larger barrier islands, and the town appeals to recreational and commercial fishermen, as it hosts multiple fishing tournaments each year. Other community attractions include the weekly summer farmer’s markets and the annual Fourth of July celebration, which draws as many as 50,000 people each year to the maritime-themed parade and fireworks show.
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
midwest
Safe Harbor Belle Maer | Michigan
Safe Harbor Toledo Beach
SAFE HARBOR TOLEDO BEACH
La Salle, MI
Located on the shore of Lake Erie, La Salle, Michigan, is a popular destination for boaters looking to enjoy North America’s fourth-largest lake or complete the Great Loop. The southernmost, shallowest and warmest of the Great Lakes, Erie boasts interesting wildlife, picturesque coastlines and a number of islands that are ideal for exploring by boat.
At Safe Harbor Toledo Beach, Members can easily access the lake while enjoying the full-service marina. The naturally protected harbor can accommodate boats up to 75 feet, and the docks are continually upgraded. The marina also o ers dry and winter storage and will soon feature new heated rack and storage to keep boats protected during the cold Michigan winters.
The southernmost, shallowest and warmest of the Great Lakes, Erie boasts interesting wildlife, picturesque coastlines and a number of islands waiting to be explored by boat.
Members have access to Wi-Fi, fresh water, shore power, pump-out, dockside parking and a fuel dock that’s open from Monday through Friday. A children’s playscape, basketball and volleyball court, swimming pool and dog park ensure that all members of the crew are entertained. The marina’s certified technical sta can provide electrical, welding, rigging, mechanical, painting and winterizing services, and there are lifts to haul your boat in and out of the water.
After a long day of cruising on Lake Erie, nothing satisfies quite like a good meal. Head for the SandBar Grille, a casual restaurant on the waterfront where you also can catch the games on big-screen TVs, and where there is always live music on the weekends. The SandBar Grille also o ers “Hook and Cook” after a great day of fishing. Pay a visit to the brand-new fish cleaning station and then take your catch up to the SandBar, where it will be prepared for you.
St. Clair Shores is a unique destination for boaters, featuring 14 miles of canals and a maritime-themed lakefront streetscape called the Nautical Mile.
SAFE HARBOR JEFFERSON BEACH
St. Clair Shores, MI
Just northeast of downtown Detroit, St. Clair Shores is a unique destination for boaters, featuring 14 miles of canals and a maritime-themed lakefront streetscape called the Nautical Mile, where boat dealerships, restaurants and retail stores cater to the town’s maritime-oriented crowd.
Safe Harbor Je erson Beach is located within the Nautical Mile, which hosts more boats per capita than any other location in the United States. The marina can accommodate boats up to 125 feet and provides Members easy access to the canal system and Lake St. Clair, where watersports, racing and fishing are popular pastimes.
Members have access to Wi-Fi, fresh water and shorepower hookups, pump-out, and slip-side parking. There’s also a fitness center, volleyball court, lakefront park and dog park. The Watermark Bar & Grille located on-site will keep the crew well-fed with surf ‘n’ turf, pizza, Tex-Mex, wine, and more. The fuel dock and ship’s store are open on weekdays, ensuring your boat is ready for a full day on the water. The hoist at Safe Harbor Je erson Beach can accommodate a 70-ton vessel up to a 24-foot beam, one of the largest and widest o erings on the lake.
During the winter, Members can keep their boats at the marina’s indoor cold and heated storage buildings. They can also opt for outdoor or wet winter storage. If a boat requires maintenance, the marina’s certified technical sta can provide everything from painting to electrical, mechanical, fiberglass, and restoration services.
SAFE HARBOR BELLE MAER
Harrison Charter Township, MI
Known locally as “BoatTown, USA,” Harrison Township attracts large crowds of boaters with a desire to cruise Lake St. Clair, which connects Lake Huron to the north with Lake Erie to the south. At Safe Harbor Belle Maer, Members can experience the town’s vibrant boating community and cruising opportunities while enjoying resort amenities at the full-service marina.
Safe Harbor Belle Maer is one of the largest marinas in Michigan, able to hold over 900 boats at full capacity between its rental slips, rack storage service slips and dockominiums. It welcomes boats from 25 to 70 feet, and has amenities such as Wi-Fi, shore power, freshwater, cable TV, swimming pool, putting green, children’s playscape, and basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts. Community events such as the popular 4th of July fireworks show help foster camaraderie among Members.
Safe Harbor Je erson Beach
Safe Harbor Belle Maer
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
northeast
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse | Maine
The picturesque coastline of Midcoast Maine, where the mountains meet the sea, draws boaters from around the country each summer.
SAFE HARBOR ROCKLAND
Rockland, ME
The picturesque coastline of Midcoast Maine, where the mountains meet the sea, draws boaters from around the country each summer. In the heart of this region is the town of Rockland, which has a rich shipbuilding history and continues to serve as a departure point for boaters who want to visit the islands of Penobscot Bay.
Safe Harbor Rockland provides boats from 10 to 200 feet with access to Penobscot Bay, which is internationally renowned as one of the best recreational cruising grounds in the world. Though the facility is small, there is a major build out project in progress, and after phase one is completed over the winter of 2021/2022, the marina will be able to accommodate even more transient boats over 90 feet.
Barbecue grills and a firepit allow Members to enjoy the great Maine outdoors, while laundry, showers and a fitness center ensure their stay is comfortable. Step off the marina’s boardwalk to experience downtown Rockland with its art galleries, restaurants and boutique shops. Visit during the first week of August to attend the annual Maine Lobster Festival, which draws crowds from around the country.
From Penobscot Bay, boaters can access North Haven and Vinalhaven, known as the Fox Islands. These iconic Maine fishing villages host sizable summer colonies of New Englanders attracted to the scenery, water and simple way of life.
Safe Harbor Rockland
Safe Harbor Great Island
SAFE HARBOR GREAT ISLAND
Harpswell,
ME
Maine is known and loved for its seacoast towns, and few are as iconic as Harpswell. The historic community is composed of Harpswell Neck, three large islands connected to the mainland by bridges, and more than 200 small islands accessible by boat.
Situated in a well-protected cove, Safe Harbor Great Island is the ideal location for boats up to 70 feet. From here, Members can explore the Maine coastline while having access to an expert team of electrical service techs and riggers. In addition to providing routine maintenance work, the sta has performed refits on vessels from Lyman Morse, French & Webb, and other distinguished yacht builders. Members can be confident their boats are in good hands.
Marina amenities include Wi-Fi, showers, laundry facilities and a lounge area. The waterfront deck and grill is a prime place for family gatherings on summer evenings, and Safe Harbor Great Island hosts live music events during the summer. An on-site cafe sells provisions for cruising.
With countless islands to explore by boat, hundreds of miles of hiking opportunities through the rugged and scenic terrain, and historic buildings and lighthouses to visit, boaters will keep busy.
SAFE HARBOR PILOTS POINT
Westbrook, CT
The Connecticut shoreline possesses a unique charm, with historic New England towns and picturesque cruising opportunities on the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound. In the heart of the shoreline area is Westbrook, which is renowned for its beaches and easy access to the Sound.
Safe Harbor Pilots Point can accommodate boats up to 100 feet and has a number of luxury amenities, from basketball, tennis and volleyball courts to a fitness center, pool, dog park and firepit. The friendly staff will greet you at your slip as you arrive to provide docking assistance; the technical team can service your vessel throughout your stay.
Dine on lobster rolls at Liv’s Shack, or pick up meals to go for the boat at the Singing Bridge Market and Deli. Alternately, the famous Bill’s Seafood is a short dinghy ride away from the marina, and the courtesy shuttle will transport you into town for more dining and shopping options.
Long Island Sound is the perfect setting for jet skiers, and Pilots Point features a limited number of PWC slips. For boaters, the Sound offers endless cruising possibilities, with Block Island, Montauk, Watch Hill and more just a short ride away. Whether you are staying at Safe Harbor Pilots Point for a weekend or the whole summer, many serene nautical miles lie ahead.
SAFE HARBOR ESSEX ISLAND
Essex, CT
The town of Essex, Connecticut, is like a step back in time. Here, early Colonial and Federal-era homes line the streets, all of which lead to the Town Dock on the Connecticut River. Surrounded on three sides by water and saturated in charm, Essex is a top destination for cruising enthusiasts.
Safe Harbor Essex Island accommodates boats from 25 to 100 feet on a private 13-acre island. Members have complimentary Wi-Fi, shore power, fresh water and cable TV in a family-oriented atmosphere enhanced by a swimming pool, children’s playscape, dog park, fire pit and lawn games such as giant Jenga and cornhole.
Enjoy seafood and cocktails at Siren Kitchen & Bar or take the ferry into downtown Essex to eat at the Griswold Inn, a local landmark that’s been welcoming guests since 1776. Also downtown are boutique shops, cafes, a new paint-and-sip location and the Connecticut River Museum.
Safe Harbor Essex Island
Safe Harbor Haverstraw
Safe Harbor Pilots Point
Whether passing through or staying to enjoy the beautiful landscape, lighthouses and historic sites, Safe Harbor Haverstraw is a must-stop location on the Hudson.
SAFE HARBOR HAVERSTRAW
West Haverstraw, NY
The Hudson River is a well-trafficked destination for boaters. A scenic waterway in its own right, it also connects Great Loopers to the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River, in addition to being one of the few navigable passages that connects to the New York Canal System. Whether you are just passing through or staying to enjoy the beautiful landscape, lighthouses and historic sites, Safe Harbor Haverstraw is a muststop location on the Hudson.
The marina caters to boats from 12 to 150 feet. Situated at the widest part of the river on 60 tree-lined acres, the sheltered, deep-water cove provides a natural abode just over 30 miles away from New York Harbor. Here, Members have access to an Olympic-sized swimming pool, lawn games and fire pit, among other things.
You can take in sweeping views of the Hudson from the Hudson Water Club, where you can dine on seafood prepared by a Culinary Institute of America graduate, drink cocktails at the outdoor tiki bar, and listen to live music. Or step away from the marina to explore local attractions such as Bear Mountain State Park, where there’s plenty of fishing, swimming and hiking. ▪
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS 85
Safe Harbor Haverstraw | New York
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SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
WEST
Safe Harbor Anacapa Isle 3001 Peninsula Road Oxnard, CA 93035
Safe Harbor Ballena Isle 1150 Ballena Boulevard | Suite 111 Alameda, CA 94501
VHF 16
Safe Harbor Cabrillo Isle 1450 Harbor Island Drive San Diego, CA 92101
VHF 69
Safe Harbor Emeryville 3310 Powell Street Emeryville, CA 94608
Safe Harbor Loch Lomond 110 Loch Lomond Drive San Rafael, CA 94901
VHF 16
Safe Harbor Ventura Isle 1363 Spinnaker Drive Ventura, CA 93001
VHF 16
SOUTH
Safe Harbor Aqua Yacht 3832 Highway 25 Iuka, MS 38852
