Nantucket Harbor Cruises, Straight Wharf (tel 508-228-1444) operates the most original cruises: morning trips to pull up live lobsters from the company's own traps, afternoon "ice cream" voyages, evening and moonlight cruises.

Fair Tide Charters, Slip 18, Charter Boat Dock, Straight Wharf (tel 508-228-4844) raises the sails on the Fair Tide, a 43-foot ocean-going yacht, for a two-hour cruise. Call for reservations, or drop by the boat itself on Straight Wharf.

Friendship Sloop Endeavor, Slip 15, Charter Boat Dock, Straight Wharf (tel 508-228-5585) makes five voyages daily in summer. Cruises last one or 1-1/2 hours.

Rent a Sailboat
Those who just like being in a boat can rent a sailboat and take sailing lessons at one of the establishments on Washington Street Extension or Steamboat Wharf. The island's information office on Federal Street will be able to help you out with details.

Fishing Cruises
Sport fishers should wander down to Straight Wharf to talk to one of the charter boat captains about a day's run for bluefish or striped bass.