A day out on the water should be an all-encompassing experience: family fun, good eats, and beautiful views. We have rounded up our favorite dock-and-dine restaurants in our local area for you to plan your next outing (or two or three)

1. Rocky’s Aqua- Clinton, CT
Rocky’s is located in Cedar Island Marina overlooking Clinton Harbor, Cedar Island and Long Island Sound. Enjoy the never ending activity with the constant boat traffic, the southwesterly trade winds on one of our two beautiful decks. Come dock your boat here for free while you eat, or take a short walk over from our dock after a day on the water. This is a Member favorite!

2. Lobster Landing- Clinton, CT
This is one of CT’s most popular Instagram hotspots with the best hot and buttery lobster rolls year after year. The quaint little shack and view of the harbor make it perfect for pictures! What began as a little hotdog cart has exploded in to one of the most talked about and beloved places on the shoreline.

3. Shank’s Waterfront Dining- Clinton, CT
Place your order at an adorable decommissioned lobster boat and then pick your table that overlooks Harborside Marina and Clinton Harbor. It is a BYOB establishment and pets are welcome! Their fish tacos come highly recommended here at the club. Transient slips are available to pull your boat up to when you would like to stop for a bite to eat. 

4. Bill’s Seafood- Westbrook, CT
Bill’s Seafood is locally known and loved by the boating community for its atmosphere and bar scene on the edge of the Patchogue River. When thinking of scrod, swordfish, tuna, big sweet lobsters, cherrystone clams and fried clams or our popular specials, Bill’s Seafood is the place to bring your family and relax.

5. Fresh Salt- Old Saybrook, CT
Fresh Salt is a place to experience the breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound intertwined with the Connecticut River. The chef utilizes the fresh and seasonal local ingredients of Connecticut and transforms them into beautifully inspired dishes. They are available daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Don’t miss the award winning Sunday brunch! Transient reservations can be made through Saybrook Point Marina.

6. BOOM Restaurant- Westbrook, CT
Located within Pilot’s Point Marina, check out BOOM’s wind and rain proof deck (heated and enclosed!) You will want to make BOOM a staple on your spring, summer and fall dining circuit. Enjoy Narragansett Oysters and fresh locally caught fish, Stonington Scallops, prime cuts of Steak and decadent pasta and rice dishes like Penne a la Vodka with Shrimp and Scallops and Lobster Risotto.

7. The Blue Oar- Haddam, CT
If you are planning a trip up the CT River, this is a spot to check out for sure! The atmosphere is great and you can’t beat the view. Order your food and pick any table you like. Make sure you come prepared with cash! This is another BYOB- bring your own booze (and your own boat) if you wish. They have a dock where you can tie up. Try one of their enormous burgers and finish it off with an amazing dessert that is made daily. Yum!

8. Guilford Mooring- Guilford, CT
Located on the shores of Long Island Sound in Guilford, Connecticut, this restaurant offers classic preparation of timeless seafood dishes as well as your favorite cuts of beef. Their menu has a little bit for everyone and offers gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options as well. If the weather allows for it, we recommend you sit on the outdoor bar or patio for gorgeous views of the water. If you are bringing your boat, you can dock it at the Guilford Town Marina.

9. Red 36 Bar & Grille- Mystic, CT

This is a must try for any local or visitor looking for a special place to dine out. There’s outdoor seating overlooking the Mystic River, the railroad bridge, and boats docked all around. The eclectic American menu changes seasonally, always offering fresh seafood and an extensive raw bar.  A diverse appetizer selection, multiple burgers and flat bread pizzas complete the menu, creating something for everyone.

Have you tried any of these restaurants? What did you think? Let us know!

Wishing you good eats and smooth sailing!
CareFree Boat Club- Eastern CT

For more information about the club and how to get unlimited access to boats to take you to all of your restaurant destinations, give us a call at 866-826-2846!