East Rodney French Boulevard

Located in New Bedford on the shores of Buzzards Bay, this public boat ramp at East Rodney French Boulevard provides convenient access to outer New Bedford Harbor and the broader waters of Buzzards Bay. The ramp accommodates both powerboats and sailboats on trailers, making it suitable for a variety of watercraft. The adjacent Harborwalk—a scenic pedestrian and biking path extending from this ramp north to Gifford Street—offers excellent water views and is a nice amenity for those arriving early or wanting to explore the area before launching.

Paddlers and boaters should be aware that the New Bedford Harbor channel experiences heavy commercial traffic, so exercise caution when navigating through the harbor, particularly near the Butler Flats Lighthouse. The ramp provides gateway access to both the protected inner harbor and the open waters of Buzzards Bay, giving paddlers flexibility in choosing calmer or more exposed paddling conditions depending on their skill level and preferences. The nearby New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park adds cultural interest to the area if you're looking to explore before or after your paddling adventure.