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Since the 1700s, Mariners have known Nantucket as
the "Gray Lady." The nickname highlights how Quaker women in
traditional gray habits dominated the island while many of the men
were on whaling voyages. To this day, women merchants, innkeepers
and journalists outnumber their male counterparts on Nantucket. The
term "Gray Lady" also describes Nantucket's predisposition for fog.
"Land far out to sea" is one translation of the Wampanoag name for
this island, and this description offers another clue to skippers
contemplating a cruise to Nantucket. To get to this
boomerang-shaped island, you must cross 30 miles of open water.
Fog, current and strong head winds are always a possibility.
But the sense of accomplishment and the pleasures of the island are
ample rewards. Landmarks like the gold-domed steeple of the
Unitarian Church make for a straightforward approach to the
lighthouse on Brandt Point and the inner harbor. If you are
boating, a lot of crews opt for a slip in the Nantucket Boat Basin
(reserve in advance). Others rent a mooring from Nantucket
Moorings. Few vessels, except the mega-yachts that
gather here like summer moths, set anchor. The island is
vulnerable to sudden storms and when the wind blows out of the north
you can get a three-foot chop in the harbor. For more
protection head northeast up the bay to pockets of deep water near
Second Point and Third Point. Here you will find privacy amid
empty beaches and seabirds. One of the joys of this
low island is that over 8,500 acres are protected dunes, marsh,
moors and forest. Biking and hiking trails await the
adventuresome, as does a maze of backwaters for small-boat
exploration. Of course, the island's jewel is Nantucket Town
with its cobblestoned Main Street, over 800 historic buildings, 75
inns and B&Bs, 50 shops, scores of restaurants and lively pubs.
Here is a town rife with historic home tours and museums, like the
Life-Saving Museum and the Nantucket Whaling Museum.
Nantucket's bike paths pretty much encompass the
island. You can head out to 'Sconset (shortened from
Siasconset) where you will find some of the early fishing shacks
converted to beautiful little cottages with rose arbors and gardens.
You can head toward the American Youth Hostel (the old life saving
station) which is within walking distance to a very nice public
beach.
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