About the Crew of the Shearwater

Captain Blair Perkins has been licensed by the US Coast Guard for more than two decades. His experience as a commercial fisherman, boat captain, and as a naturalist spans more than 30 years on Nantucket Island and he compliments each tour with local flavor and extensive knowledge. "I have always been awestruck by the natural beauty of all that is out here surviving day-by- day in every kind of weather, and am amazed at the changes in species and populations as the months and seasons themselves change, " says Perkins. "I am thrilled to be able to offer Nantucket visitors and naturalists the opportunity to see the wild beauty of Nantucket which is rarely observed from the confines of everyday life."

Shearwater Excursions is the first family-run, year-round eco-tour company on Nantucket. We offer customers the opportunity to explore the many ecosystems in and around the shores of Nantucket, as well as those of the undeveloped outer islands of Tuckernuck and Muskeget. We also explore the vast domain of the great whales offshore. Our company has close ties with many research organizations which ensures our passengers are provided with exceptionally educational and well narrated tours. Shearwater Excursions provides a memorable and educational experience that has many people returning each season for a “refresher".
Captain Blair Perkins and family: first mates Max, Alex, Renee and wife, Rachael

The vessel, Shearwater is a very comfortable 47' Power Catamaran. Shearwater is a US Coast Guard certified twin-hulled power boat with eco-friendly, clean-burning diesel engines. The very shallow draft of the Shearwater allows shoreline access that most single-hulled boats cannot navigate. In addition, the double hulled design provides a very dry and stable platform from which one can easily observe and photograph. Indoor and outdoor seating offers protection from the elements and there is a clean, private head (toilet) for additional comfort. Snacks and drinks are available for sale. Download the Specification Sheet on the Shearwater.

Fresh Nantucket Bay Scallops are the jewels of the sea. Smaller and more tender than sea scallops, they are in season from November 1st through March 31st and can be ordered anytime during this period directly from Captain Perkins. Harvested in the morning, they are shelled, packed in coolers and overnight shipped for arrival at your doorstep the very next day. A very special treat available from our Shearwater family. Please call for prices, availability and reservations.

Captain Perkins Favorite Scallop Recipes

Classic Scallops
Serves 4 for dinner
2 T lemon juice
2 T butter
1/2 cup dry white wine or vermouth
1 t basil
1 t oregano
2 pounds fresh Nantucket Bay Scallops
salt and pepper

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add the lemon juice and the wine. Lower the heat a notch and simmer for 2 minutes. Add the scallops and cook only for 2 or 3 minutes until the scallops lose their transparency and become opaque. Add basil and oregano. Salt and pepper to taste. Stir and serve immediately.

Scallop and Bacon Wraps
Great appetizers for 4
8 strips bacon, cut in half
1 pound fresh Nantucket Bay Scallops

Wrap half a slice of bacon around each scallop and fasten with toothpick.
Broil 4 inches from heat for about 10 minutes, until bacon is crisp. That's
it! Try adding a cube of pineapple to each toothpick as well for a Hawaiian
flair.

Garlic Scallops and Pasta
serves 6 for dinner
2 pounds fresh Nantucket Bay scallops
3 cloves garlic
2 T butter
2 t chopped scallions
2 T parsley
1/2 t tarragon
1/2 t salt
1/2 t pepper
1 lb linguine
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Brown garlic in butter and add onions and seasonings. Pour over scallops and let stand in the fridge while you cook the pasta according to package directions. Just before pasta is done, broil scallops for 4 minutes on each side. Toss with pasta. Add a little more butter or olive oil if desired. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.