English Dictionary

Nantucket sleigh ride

noun

(idiomatic) An obsolete and dangerous method of whale hunting in which a small boat manned by rowers and a harpooner, or a series of small boats tied together, would be attached to a whale by means of a harpoon and would then be towed by the creature at high speed across the water's surface, until the whale eventually became exhausted.

We went on a thrilling Nantucket sleigh ride.

意味（1）

(idiomatic) An obsolete and dangerous method of whale hunting in which a small boat manned by rowers and a harpooner, or a series of small boats tied together, would be attached to a whale by means of a harpoon and would then be towed by the creature at high speed across the water's surface, until the whale eventually became exhausted.

If we can fasten a good fish tomorrow when you are with us,said the captain of the New Bedford whaling bark Morning Star to me,I will try to give you a Nantucket sleigh ride."

意味（2）

(idiomatic, by extension) A similar scenario involving a large fish.

They said they planned to hook the shark with a gaff and go for a Nantucket sleigh ride.