Sleeping on a boat in Boston
A night aboard at Constitution Marina in Charlestown puts you on the harbor, a short walk from the Freedom Trail and North Station. Here is what first-time guests usually ask: is it safe, where's the bathroom, will I be too hot or too cold, and what do the tides do?
Is it safe?
The boats sit in a protected basin on floating docks behind a locked gate, so the docks aren't open to passers-by. Most of the risk is simply stepping on and off a boat, especially at night or after rain.
| Habit | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Wear shoes with grip on the dock | Wet wood and fiberglass get slippery |
| Use a handhold when boarding | The boat moves a little as you step on |
| Keep a phone light handy after dark | Dock lines and cleats are trip hazards |
| Skip glass and heavy drinking near the edge | Most falls happen climbing aboard late |
| Ask your host where the life jackets are | Especially if you're bringing children |
In an emergency call 911 and give the address: 28 Constitution Road, Charlestown.
Bathrooms and showers
Constitution Marina has restrooms and showers on the property for marina guests, plus paid laundry and free WiFi. Many guests use these rather than the boat's own bathroom.
If your boat has a bathroom aboard (called a "head"), it works differently from one at home: only toilet paper goes in, in small amounts, and nothing else. Your host will show you how to flush it. Each listing says whether it has a head.
Summer heat
The water usually keeps evenings cooler than the city, but a closed cabin in July sun heats up fast. Open hatches and windows before sunset to let air move through, and check the listing for a fan or air conditioning — not every boat has it. Bring water and sunscreen; the dock has little shade.
Cold nights
In spring and fall, Boston nights on the water can feel much colder than the daytime forecast. Pack a warm layer and socks even in June or September, and ask your host whether the boat has a heater. Never use a camp stove, grill or fuel heater inside the cabin — they can fill a small space with carbon monoxide.
Tides
Boston Harbor has two high tides and two low tides a day, and the water rises and falls by roughly 9 to 10 feet between them. Because the docks float, your boat rises and falls with the water and you won't feel it much while you sleep.
What you will notice is the ramp from the shore down to the docks: it's gentle at high tide and steep at low tide. Take it slowly with luggage. You can check today's times on NOAA's Boston tide station.
What to pack
| Bring | Leave at home |
|---|---|
| Soft bag that squashes into small spaces | Hard suitcase |
| Grippy shoes and a warm layer | Heels |
| Small flashlight or phone light | Candles |
| Toiletries for the marina showers | Anything you'd flush at home |
Parking isn't included with a stay; there's a paid lot next door to the marina.
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Browse slips and start hostingGeneral information for boat owners, not legal, tax or insurance advice. Confirm dockage rules with your marina and coverage with your insurer before hosting.