“Nantucket! Take out your map and look at it. See what a real corner of the world it occupies; how it stands there, away off shore, more lonely than the Eddystone lighthouse. Look at it—a mere hillock, and elbow of sand; all beach, without a background”
– Ishmael [protagonist referencing the allure of Nantucket in the novel Moby-Dick]
I have a deep affinity for islands – Key West, Mount Desert Island, and very recently, Nantucket.
I have been eager to get back to Nantucket for some time now. That yearning has been further intensified after recently finishing Nathaniel Philbrick’s (Nantucket Historian) In the Heart of the Sea and Away Off Shore: History of Nantucket and Its People, 1602-1890. Two incredibly insightful books about the whaling industry in the 1820s and the Essex whaleship tragedy and the history of the island and early settlers: Native Americans, Quakers, Folgers, Starbucks, Macys, Coffins, Chases, Nickersons, Pollards and many more. Herman Melville, the author of Moby-Dick, was actually inspired by the Essex whaleship disaster and spoke to Captain George Pollard Jr. on his trip to Nantucket about the idea for a book he was writing about a white whale, who’s name was Moby-Dick.
I became so inspired that I went further and picked up a copy of Moby-Dick at a used book store, and halfway through the novel, I put down the book, contacted my well-versed-in-all-things-Nantucket friend Emma, and started researching ferries and weekends that would be suitable to go back to the wonderful island that I have gained a renewed respect and awe for.
It is truly such a tiny island with an epic history.
*(if Moby-Dick is too much for you check out another Philbrickian masterpiece that consolidates the greatness of the novel into a thin paperback: Why Read Moby-Dick?)
Getting to the Island of Nantucket
My preferred method of getting to Nantucket is to take the Hy-Line Fast Ferry out of Hyannis. It is seamless and is the best way to get to the island in my opinion, especially if you are not taking a vehicle over.
Moreover, Captain Flynn and Dock Officer Flynn will get you to your destination safely, comfortably, and with a smile.
As soon as you get off of the ferry and pass all of the luggage carriers and pop-up shops on the wharf, you feel wonderfully isolated, and all of the “mainland anxieties” slowly start to dissipate. Inspiration hits you immediately, as you start to stroll down the cobblestone roads, take in the New England weathered-shingle- look of the historical homes, and become enamored by the history of the whaling industry.
**Nantucket Whaling Museum** – Highly Recommend
The Nantucket Whaling Museum is not far from the ferry terminal and is a wonderful museum with exhibits, presentations, history, and even a kids’ room! I highly recommend going to the museum; definitely go to the top of the building so you can look out Tucker’s Roof walk which gives you a beautiful view of the harbor and downtown area.
**Brotherhood of Thieves Whaling Bar** – Highly Recommend
An old 1840s whaling bar with a large door that enshrouds you as you walk into a beautiful dimly lit bar with whale carvings, sailing ropes and nautical decor, and beautiful post-and-beam ceilings. The food was excellent, service impeccable, and beer was ice cold.
**Nantucket Bookworks** – Highly Recommend
Is there anything better than strolling into a bookstore?
Nantucket Bookworks always has a great selection and, of course, a specific section dedicated to local Nantucket Historian Nathaniel Philbrick. All of his books are well stocked, and typically signed. He’s is always around, and you may even bump into him.
Stay tuned for Nantucket Part II; I can’t wait until I am again, “Away Off Shore.”
Cheers,
FSS
