
There are many fun things to do on the water and one of the best pastimes is enjoying a mouthwatering meal at a waterfront restaurant that you travel to by boat. But what makes a great dock-and-dine? That’s the question we first posed a year ago, when we launched our inaugural Readers’ Choice Award for Best Dock-and-Dines. The response from the Soundings audience was so good we’re heading up the contest again, and we’re hoping to receive even more food for thought from our readership.
Last year, we learned you have strong opinions about the characteristics of a good waterfront dining spot. Some of you contend it’s the view and the location that really make for a memorable meal; others believe the quality of the food and service is a priority. And then there are the people who prefer a fun atmosphere with good music, a lively crowd and a salty vibe. What’s your taste?

If you’d like to weigh in, go to our website (soundingsonline.com) and cast your vote. You’ll find a number of interesting candidates on the list of nominated restaurants. Some of them could be in your home waters; others are along shorelines you’ve explored while traveling away from the local cruising grounds. The winners of our second annual Dock-and-Dine contest will be published in the July issue, just as the summer cruising season is in full swing and we’re all looking for new places to tie up the boat and dig into a great meal in the company of good friends.We look forward to hearing from you.
Jeanne Craig, [email protected]
This article was originally published in the March 2023 issue.