The Edge of the World | 5 Remote Homes Accessible by Boat

In a world where everyone is always accessible and “on”, a long-haul flight to a far-flung locale can sometimes feel like the only way to justify a little R&R. Thankfully, it is possible to reap the benefits of a faraway escape sans jetlag. Skip the stresses of air travel and dive into these remote homes accessible by boat.

A Private Retreat in the Florida Keys

John Vlad & Sue Moret, Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty

When you really need to slip away for a weekend or holiday, look no further than this private isle in the Florida Keys. Combining ultimate seclusion with luxurious amenities, this 2,300-square-foot hideaway is fit for a British special agent, complete with a helipad and 360-degree water views. Surrounded by shimmering ocean waters, this home feels worlds away, when in fact the mainland is accessible in five minutes by boat. Included in the purchase of the island is a vessel to make this string of tropical islands your aquatic playground, whether for deep-sea diving through North America’s only living coral barrier reef system or cruising the pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

A Family Estate in Osterville

Liz Bone, South Shore Sotheby’s International Realty

Seafarers hunting for a quintessential coastal home can delight in this Massachusetts estate located on a historic corridor in Cape Cod. Situated on a nearly-four-acre parcel complete with waterfront access and a private beach, this charming North Bay property promises sunny days on the dock coupled with sunset cruises on the inlet. With four distinctive dwellings built to facilitate large gatherings, there is no dearth of options when it comes to entertaining, whether in the main home, studio apartment, or fully outfitted boathouse. With close proximity to contemporary cafés and clam shacks on the cape, there’s plenty to explore on land, but this captivating property best serves as a springboard for aquatic adventure: jet skiing on the inlet or taking the boat out to Martha’s Vineyard are recommended.

A Forested Custom Home in Victoria

Glynis MacLeod, PREC & Kirsten MacLeod, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

Mountain views meet miles of shoreline at this oceanfront hideaway in Victoria, combining the serenity of the mountains with the restorative properties of waterfront living. Nestled on the edge of a private cove on the sheltered shores of Becher Bay, this respite set on a sprawling 10 acres includes its own private beach and access to some of the most covetable sports fishing grounds in Western Canada. For fishing enthusiasts and forest bathers alike, this quintessential Canadian hermitage offers a slice of paradise. 

A New England Oasis in The Bahamas

George Damianos, Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty

Island charm is evident at this cheerful Bahamian estate, situated on a peninsula in the Eastern Shores community of Marsh Harbour. Rivalling private luxury resorts in both seclusion and amenities (which include tennis courts and yoga space), each room in this indoor-outdoor home is primed for soaking in views of lush tropical landscaping and Tiffany-Blue waters. With deep sea docks and easy access to the Sea of Abaco, this home is ideal for the serious captain or angler, with ample opportunity for fishing and chartering trips to neighboring islands. 

An Airy Villa in the British Virgin Islands

Maritha Keil, British Virgin Islands Sotheby’s International Realty

Sail into paradise at this three-bedroom villa overlooking the Atlantic, and bask in the relaxed spirit of the Caribbean. Scrub Island is a launchpad for serious hydrophiles, with everything from ancient shipwrecks to epic scuba diving just a short dive away. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, picturesque beaches and neighboring National Parks provide an abundance of options for exploration.

When it comes to slowing down, there’s nothing quite like boarding a vessel and cruising off into the sunset. Luckily, reaping the benefits of a secluded escape is smooth sailing when it comes to these remote boat-access homes. 

Feeling the call of the ocean? Dive into the benefits of waterfront living.