Nantucket’s Cottages at the Boat Basin Get a Multimillion-Dollar Makeover
Nantucket's newly-renovated Cottages at the Boat Basin
There aren’t many places like the Cottages at the Boat Basin—shingled structures suspended above the historic harbor paired with privacy and exclusivity that only the island’s homeowners experience—on Nantucket or otherwise, so news of a multimillion-dollar renovation across 29 of the beloved seaside shelters was big news. But after six months of extensive updates, and with the help of island-based designer Audrey Sterk, the result is nothing short of a refined iteration of what once was.
The 'Veronica' cottage featuring a lofted twin bedroom and stainless steel kitchen appliances
Paying homage to the cottages' waterfront location, Nantucket's rich whaling history, and its status as the world's busiest whaling port in the late 1720s, the cottages infuse local touches through each and every detail: caged lights, nautical charts of Nantucket, authentic brass barometer instruments, rope, jute, and more. Many even inherit their names from notable great whaling ships of the 1700s, such as Sea Syren, Essex, and Orion.
The loft twin bedroom within the 'Veronica' cottage
Even more, the spaces spotlight original art that’s authentic to the island. “A focal point of each cottage is a hand-painted mural by Audrey Sterk,” Jason Curtis, General Manager of The Cottages at The Boat Basin and Jared Coffin House, tells Little ACK Book. “The murals are a floor-to-ceiling seascape—which took nearly eight months to create—stretches across an entire wall and depicts a ‘First Nantucket Settlers’ scene, with large-masted sailboats, lighthouses, a distant hamlet, and coastal vegetation brimming with native plants and animals. The mural tradition is deeply woven into the fabric of the island; in the 1800s, owners of whaling ships commissioned murals for their homes. In addition to the hand-painted murals, there's an extensive collection featuring 3D pieces of framed mariners' knots and other hand-selected works chosen by the hotel's owners.”
The 'End of the Rope' cottage's living area and outdoor deck overlooking the historic harbor
The cottages themselves range from studios to split-level three-bedroom lofts, all with full kitchens featuring stainless steel appliances and most with private outdoor decks. Guests also have access to complimentary Priority Bicycles and kids' fishing rods, reels, and nets, as well as a shuttle that provides transfers to any of the island’s many beaches. And perhaps the best part for many visitors is the pet-friendly cottages: “A Black Lab/Brittany Spaniel mix serves as the pet concierge, providing recommendations on the island’s most pet-friendly activities, including places to run free and play fetch,” says Curtis. “Upon arrival, pets receive a welcome bag containing a nautical chew toy, Yup Pup treats, food and water bowls, a pet bed, personalized pet tags, very cute dog robes, and optional dog walking services for an additional fee.” For everyone else, there is a pre-arrival concierge to help with bookings and recommendations ahead of an upcoming stay.
The outdoor deck off of the 'Orion' cottage
To book, visit Cottages at the Boat Basin or call (866) 838-9253.