Summers in Maine were made for the open waters! The salty air and the occasional sea-spray landing across your face leave you feeling sun-kissed and relaxed. While Vacationland has no shortage of boat trips to take, we recommend forgoing the obvious choices for one that’s just a bit more unique. The best part? The boat will take you (and assorted mail and freight!) straight to Monhegan Island, one of the most beautiful in Maine.
Monhegan Island is located about ten miles from the mainland and can only be traveled to by boat.
ugardener / Flickr
Historically, it’s been a thriving fishing community, with a focus on the winter lobster season.
DeepCwind / Flickr
But today, as an increasing number of people move back to the mainland, the economy is a bit more tourism involved.
Monhegan Boat Line / Facebook
The best way to get there just might be the Monhegan Mailboat Experience.
ArtMusic / TripAdvisor
The boat leaves from picturesque Port Clyde at the tip of the St. George peninsula three times daily between late May and early October.
Bill I / TripAdvisor It makes the trip once a day in May and October. Beyond that, you’ll only be able to catch a ride on Monday, Wednesday and Friday once a day at 9:30am with a return trip immediately after the boat is unloaded.
What makes this trip so unique is that it has two purposes - one is to bring mail and freight to Monhegan and the other is to provide a gorgeous view to those who have decided to tag along.
Vicki802 / TripAdvisor
The boat first pulls out of the harbor, passing lobster boats and fisherman.
GLT-LCT / TripAdvisor
The first view is of Marshall Point Light, made famous by Forrest Gump.
thekernel / Flickr
The protected route to Monhegan passed beautiful wildlife, including local birds like these Atlantic Puffins.
management / TripAdvisor
The ferry also glides by Tenant Island Lighthouse.
Jefferson H / TripAdvisor
About 1.5 to 2 hours later, the ferry returns to Port Clyde passing Seal Rock where entire families of seals enjoy the sun.
linuxlibrarian / Flickr
These ferries are strong and able, withstanding winter weather, swells and unusual cargo throughout the year.
Monhegan Boat Line / Facebook
Not only is this a fun way to see what’s being hauled to the island each day, but is also allows for a few hours exploring Monhegan and its art galleries, shops and local restaurants.
ugardener / Flickr
You can learn more about the Monhegan Boat Line, which offers other cruising options as well, here. Check out the mail boat schedule and prices here.
ugardener / Flickr
DeepCwind / Flickr
Monhegan Boat Line / Facebook
ArtMusic / TripAdvisor
Bill I / TripAdvisor
It makes the trip once a day in May and October. Beyond that, you’ll only be able to catch a ride on Monday, Wednesday and Friday once a day at 9:30am with a return trip immediately after the boat is unloaded.
Vicki802 / TripAdvisor
GLT-LCT / TripAdvisor
thekernel / Flickr
management / TripAdvisor
Jefferson H / TripAdvisor
linuxlibrarian / Flickr
And, for more information on Monhegan Island, check out this quick read which tells you more about the residents, the history and what you can expect during your visit.
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