PLACES TO GO BY BOAT
Below are some recommended destinations that you can get to by boat. Please note that images provided are for reference only, not meant for navigation purposes.
Boothbay Harbor
From Hodgdon Yacht Services, you can either go through Townsend Gut and under the Southport Bridge or take the long way around Newagen to get to Boothbay Harbor.
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Tie up at the Town Dock if you're looking to walk around town. We suggest an ice cream at Downeast Ice Cream Factory, a coffee at Red Cup Coffeehouse, or picking up a freshly baked baguette and cheese from Eventide Specialties! There are lots of giftshops and galleries to browse, and restaurants if you're hungry.
Damariscove Island
Part of the Boothbay Region Land Trust, 210-acre Damariscove Island is located six miles out to sea from Boothbay Harbor and is accessible to boaters. There are two courtesy moorings and dinghies available so that you can get ashore and explore the island's walking trails. Visitors will see a fresh water pond, former Coast Guard station, and small museum on the island's unique history.
Damariscotta
From Hodgdon Yacht Services, go through Townsend Gut and out around Ocean Point to the mouth of the Damariscotta River. Heading up the river you'll pass South Bristol and East Boothbay. As you get further up the river, you'll see multiple oyster farms. The Damariscotta River has over 15 farms and produces around 80% of Maine's oyster population!
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Once you get to Damariscotta, you can tie up at the Town Dock. There are multiple restaurants within walking distance where you can try fresh oysters and other local seafood. If you're looking for something to bring home and grill for dinner, check out Riverside Butcher Co. for local meat and a great selection of wine.
Wiscasset
To get to Wiscasset, you can either take the Sheepscot River up the west side of Barter's Island or the more protected Back River up the east side of the Island (depending upon the tide, since you'll need to go under the Barter's Island Bridge).
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As you approach Wiscasset, you'll see Fort Edgecomb on Davis Island, which was built in 1808-1809. Once you reach town, you can tie up at the Town Dock. Depending upon what you're in the mood for, we recommend lunch at Water Street Kitchen and Bar or Sprague's Lobster, followed by baked goods and coffee from Treats.
Ovens Mouth
To reach Ovens Mouth - the narrow passage that connects the Sheepscot River to the Cross River tidal basin - you can either go up the west side of Barter's Island or take the more protected Back River up the east side of the Island (depending upon the tide, since you'll need to go under the Barter's Island Bridge). The protected Cross River is a great spot for bird watching or to drop anchor and have a picnic lunch.
Robinson's Wharf
For a local favorite seafood restaurant in the area with fantastic views, check out Robinson's Wharf. Just around the corner from Hodgdon Yacht Services, we recommend stopping in for a bite to eat, and it should probably be a lobster! Adding to the atmosphere, often times on weekends you'll find live music.
Five Islands Lobster Co.
Shoot across the Sheepscot for lunch at Five Islands Lobster Co., where you'll find typical Maine fare like lobsters, clams, and chowder, as well as a selection of non-seafood items and ice cream.
Cozy's Dockside
From Hodgdon Yacht Services, scoot past Hendricks Head Lighthouse, which was erected in 1829 to guide vessels up the Sheepscot River and make your way into Cozy Harbor. Here you'll find Cozy's Dockside and casual coastal dining.