Cormorant Rock, Rocky island near Marblehead Harbor, Massachusetts, US
Cormorant Rock is a small rocky outcrop situated near Marblehead Harbor, rising approximately 300 feet from the southeastern shore of Children's Island. The formation creates a noticeable landmark in the coastal waters and serves as an important navigational reference point for vessels traveling through the harbor.
A navigational beacon was established on this rock in 1808 by the Marblehead Marine Society to guide ships through Salem Harbor waters. The beacon became a crucial aid for maritime traffic in this historically active shipping region.
Local maritime organizations continue their long tradition of monitoring and maintaining navigational safety measures around the rock for vessel protection.
Reaching this rock requires a boat or kayak since it sits in open water away from shore. Plan your visit during calm weather and stable water conditions, as currents in this harbor area can shift unpredictably.
The waters surrounding these rocks actually belong to Salem administratively, not Marblehead, despite being closer to Marblehead Harbor. This quirk of local jurisdiction creates an interesting detail in the harbor's geography that catches the attention of those who know the region's boundaries.
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