Red Sox owner John Henry parks his yacht here in summertime. The rest of us can arrive by boat in a less-grand fashion—the water shuttle runs from Logan Airport to the back door of this deluxe harborside hotel. The hotel's dramatic entryway is an 80-foot archway topped by a rotunda, so eye-catching that it qualifies as a local landmark. The lobby, too, is stunningly elegant, with marble arches, antique maps, and a huge tumble of fresh flowers. Guest rooms have marble bathrooms, custom-made desks, 300-thread-count sheets, and down comforters. Many have views of the harbor. Meritage restaurant has a unique, wine-inspired menu that pairs small plates with appropriate vintages, under light fixtures that mimic a starry sky. Want to work out in the hotel's health club, but forgot your exercise duds? Not to worry—they provide them for their guests. Now if only they would exercise for you.
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