Maine’s coastline, a tapestry woven with hundreds of islands, offers a diverse cruising experience. Some islands boast convenient bridge access, while others remain secluded, accessible only by boat. Each offers a unique charm, but the allure of the less-traveled islands lies in their authentic character and the warm welcomes extended to visitors. This article explores the highlights of cruising coastal Maine, with a special emphasis on how resources like “A Cruising Guide To The Maine Coast 5th Edition Hardcover” can enhance your journey.
Sailing into a Down East sunset in the Gulf of Maine onboard Jackrabbit, illustrating the stunning beauty detailed in “A Cruising Guide to the Maine Coast 5th Edition Hardcover.”
Discovering Maine’s Coastal Charms
During a brief summer cruise, we explored six Maine harbors, evenly split between those connected to the mainland and those remaining isolated. The accessible harbors offered the quintessential Maine experience: succulent lobsters, picturesque coves, tranquil nights, and pristine waters. However, the more remote islands provided all of that and something more: a sense of unspoiled serenity.
Consider Burnt Coat Harbor on Swans Island, a short distance from the bustling harbors of Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, and Northeast Harbor on Mount Desert Island. While Mount Desert Island is accessible by car and home to Acadia National Park and renowned yacht builders like Hinckley and Morris, Burnt Coat offers a different atmosphere. As the fog lifts, you’re greeted by a cluster of well-maintained houses framing the harbor, wooden schooners with oil lamps swaying in the rigging, and an overall sense of peaceful charm. These hidden gems, often detailed in “A Cruising Guide to the Maine Coast 5th Edition Hardcover,” offer a unique cruising experience.
Navigating with the Cruising Guide to the Maine Coast
Our five-day trip from Mount Desert to Casco Bay only scratched the surface of Maine’s cruising potential. The desire to explore the placid islands, untouched by cars and populated by friendly locals, grew stronger. This journey highlighted the importance of proper navigation and planning, for which the “a cruising guide to the maine coast 5th edition hardcover” becomes an invaluable tool.
After arriving in the States from Canada, we cleared customs at Southwest Harbor. Navigating the dense fog and lobster pot buoys proved challenging. The experience highlighted the need for caution and the importance of reliable resources like a cruising guide. As Hank Weed aptly put it, navigating those waters requires careful attention, and the right resources can make all the difference.
Dysart’s Great Harbor Marina provided a welcome respite with amenities ranging from breakfast to laundry. The social atmosphere was welcoming, with fellow Cruising Club of America members readily extending invitations. The evening was a far cry from the tide-swept Cape Sable, exemplifying the diverse experiences awaiting those who cruise the Maine coast. The sense of community and shared experiences further underscores the value of connecting with resources and fellow sailors familiar with the region, something a cruising guide can facilitate.
Beyond the Beaten Path
Following advice to avoid the crowded Bar Harbor, we set sail for Swans Island and Burnt Coat Harbor. Encountering a fog bank highlighted the unpredictable nature of coastal cruising and the need for careful navigation, reinforcing the need to consult reliable resources such as “a cruising guide to the maine coast 5th edition hardcover”.
The harbor was filled with beautiful boats, showcasing the refined tastes of New Englanders. Wooden lobster boats bobbed alongside elegant cruising sloops and weathered windjammers. The scene was reminiscent of Andy Hughes’ observation that there’s “no junk up here,” referring to the unappealing vessels common elsewhere.
The experience was enhanced by the serendipitous arrival of a traveling choir, Penrose of Essex, who serenaded the harbor with sea chanteys. Their performance showcased the vibrant cultural scene of Maine’s coastal communities. This type of local knowledge and hidden gem is often highlighted within “a cruising guide to the maine coast 5th edition hardcover”.
Exploring Christmas Cove and Casco Bay
Continuing our journey, we consulted the “a cruising guide to the maine coast 5th edition hardcover” by Hank and Jan Taft and Curtis Rindlaub, eventually bypassing Penobscot Bay to instead make way to Christmas Cove on Rutherford Island.
Christmas Cove was a charming but busy harbor. Coveside Marina offered convenient amenities, but the atmosphere felt less relaxed than Burnt Coat. Checking the chart book revealed that Rutherford Island was connected by a bridge, confirming its more accessible, mainland feel. The experience highlights the importance of pre-planning and identifying desired cruising experience before arriving, and utilizing a cruising guide to accomplish that.
Next, we charted a course to Casco Bay, near Chebeague Island, a classic, unconnected outpost. Chebeague offered a peaceful retreat, free from the hustle and bustle of mainland life.
The Allure of Casco Bay
Casco Bay is often overlooked by cruisers rushing to more famous destinations. However, it offers steady breezes, flat waters, and challenging navigation around the rocks. A visit to Eagle Island, Robert E. Peary’s summer retreat, provided a glimpse into history.
Casco Bay is easily worth a week to explore. We sampled the fish chowder in Potts Harbor, but there was not enough time to visit Mackerel Cove or Jewell Island. Casco Bay provides unique anchorages that “a cruising guide to the maine coast 5th edition hardcover” can thoroughly reveal.
A Final Stop in Provincetown
Ultimately bound for Massachusetts Bay, we sought a final evening of unique adventure. After leaving Chebeague, we ended in Provincetown, where even the locals extended a wave.
Conclusion
Cruising the Maine coast offers a rich and varied experience, from bustling harbors to tranquil islands. Resources such as the “a cruising guide to the maine coast 5th edition hardcover” are indispensable for planning and navigating this beautiful region. Whether seeking solitude or community, Maine’s coastline promises unforgettable adventures. As you plan your trip, remember to embrace the spirit of exploration and the warm hospitality of the Maine coast. Grab your copy of “a cruising guide to the maine coast 5th edition hardcover” and begin planning the trip of a lifetime.
