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    West Harbor Recreation

    5.0 (2 reviews)
    Open 8:00 am - 5:30 pm

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    8 years ago

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    Ask the Community - West Harbor Recreation

    Balmy Day Cruises - My daughters forst fishing trip and it was a great one!

    Balmy Day Cruises

    4.6(112 reviews)
    1.1 mi
    Locally owned & operated
    44 years in business

    We took Balmy Day Cruises out of Boothbay to Monhegan Island, and it was an absolutely lovely…read moreexperience. We ordered both our outbound and return tickets online ($23 per person per leg of the trip, so for two people - after fees - it was close to $100), showed up to collect them at about 9:15, and got in the queue (I'd strongly recommend showing up even earlier than we did: the best seats are on the top of the boat, and they fill up very quickly). The whole process was super easy! The boat is for passengers only, departing Pier 8 at 9:30am and arriving back around 4:15/4:30pm. The boat ride is about 1 1/2 hours each way. At 2pm they offer a trip around Monhegan Island (it's $5 per person, cash only) that offers spectacular views of the entire circumference of the island; it's narrated with local history and nature facts (actually most of the boat ride to and from is), and when we went the captain also brought us over to Duck Rocks to see dozens and dozens of seals sunbathing. We also saw harbor porpoises on the ride back to the mainland! There are beverages available for sale (including adult options); there are bathrooms on board, as well. The staff is friendly, incredibly safety focused, and very quick to help when there's a sick passenger (after all, you're in the open ocean of the Gulf of Maine). I didn't know what to expect, but was impressed and satisfied with the entire experience. We're already looking forward to our next trip to Monhegan which we'll do through Balmy Day (who also offer harbor tours, private charters, sailing trips, mackerel fishing, and Burnt Island Lighthouse tours... something we're also interested in now too!). What an incredible way to explore coastal Maine from the convenience of Boothbay!

    Great Captain honest day. The cocaptain was training a new hire. They were very emphatic on making…read moresure we were back well in time not to miss the trip. The water was safe safe and smooth. Entertaining dialogue from the captain throughout the cruise. It was a absolutely fun and rewarding day on the island.

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    Balmy Day Cruises
    Balmy Day Cruises
    Balmy Day Cruises

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    Cap'n Fish's Cruises - Demonstration (Jul 2025)

    Cap'n Fish's Cruises

    3.8(151 reviews)
    1.1 mi

    Experience: The captain and the crew were very friendly! The crew helped people take pictures and…read morehelped elder folks into their seats. Plenty of deck seating. There are some indoor seating inside this boat for those rainy and cold days! I loved the lobsterman demonstration (catch and release)! It was so educational to learn about Maine's economy and how traditional ways of lobster trapping worked (manual rope and pull technique). We had a great time exploring the harbor on boat and learning about the history of Maine. Parking: Once you get closer to the wharf (where the boat and the business stand is located) it is harder to find a parking spot. Especially in the parking lot where the business is located. We decided to park a few blocks west of the wharf. There was free 3-4 hour parking and it was a good 5 minutes of walking! Bathrooms: There were public bathrooms located at the entrance of the wharf, between the business stand and the main street.

    We got rained out in Bar Harbor for our whale watching so we booked one here. The boat was nice…read moreand we were able to sit on the top deck. We only saw one whale, but also saw a sunfish, seals and dolphins. I would have loved to see more after being spoiled in South Africa with lots of whales, but it's always fun to go out on the boat. The captain did a good job, and the naturalist had lots of info.

    Photos
    Cap'n Fish's Cruises - Envy and her Dad

    Envy and her Dad

    Cap'n Fish's Cruises - We had a meal at Pier 1 before our cruise. My photos during the cruise were in a different cellphone. Too bad that I can't share them.

    We had a meal at Pier 1 before our cruise. My photos during the cruise were in a different cellphone. Too bad that I can't share them.

    Cap'n Fish's Cruises - Demonstration (Jul 2025)

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    Demonstration (Jul 2025)

    Tidal Transit Kayak

    Tidal Transit Kayak

    4.6(32 reviews)
    1.2 mi

    Safe and lot's of fun. Beautiful sunset! Easy in and out of…read moreboats and we borrowed wet gear for the splash...

    Every time we're here staying in Ocean Point, we make a point to visit Tidal Transit Kayak Company…read morefor a guaranteed great time on the water. The past two times we've been here, we've done their guided wildlife kayak tour which includes a stop on Ram Island with snacks. This summer, given the COVID issues, they are unable to offer any guided tours but you can go down to their dock and rent stand up paddle boards or kayaks (single or double) and they will provide you with waterproof maps of the harbor so you can paddle to various locations and explore on your own. They also provided us with waterproof sacks and life vests. It was all first come first serve (I couldn't reserve the kayaks ahead of time) but they have so many it's not an issue. They said they do have more demand for paddle boards from time to time. We rented three double kayaks and wore our masks, as did the staff, until we shoved off the dock. We did the recommended kayak path to Burnt Island and walked around the island a bit before we headed back around the bay. In truth, two of our party decided to just float in the bay in their kayak and didn't paddle anywhere. All in all it was a wonderful and different way to experience the bay by kayak than the guided tours and at the end, they gave each of our teenagers/young adults a Tidal Transit Kayak sticker for their water bottles/laptops. I tried to pay for them but they gave them to us for free - and we will gladly advertise their company for them! Next time you're in Boothbay Harbor and looking for a fun, COVID-safe, outdoor activity for the whole family, make sure to visit Tidal Kayak Transit Company.

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    Tidal Transit Kayak - Best in town

    Best in town

    Tidal Transit Kayak
    Tidal Transit Kayak - Had a great tour. Excellent guide and beautiful scenery.

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    Had a great tour. Excellent guide and beautiful scenery.

    Lazy Jack Cruises - Scruffy land lubber aboard

    Lazy Jack Cruises

    3.9(16 reviews)
    1.2 mi

    We had a wonderful 2 hour cruise with the captain and first mate very helpful and fun. The cruise…read moreis around the harbor and it was just enough time to enjoy the scenery. Wind did pick up so we sailed at 5 knots nicely for awhile. It was also much cooler on the water than on land, so a welcome relief. All the sails went up, and the small size of the schooner was perfect. This is a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours on the water looking at all the shorelines with houses you would not normally see.

    To see the…read moresea The Lazy Jack is a 48 foot schooner that holds up to 14 people. Not exactly in comfort but you can find a comfy place on board to see everything that is going on. And a whole lot is usually going on this ship. The Lazy Jack was built in 1947 and is modeled after the great Gloucester fishing schooners of the last century. It was used for years to haul cargo from Massachusetts down to the Bahamas. Now the great ship is doing the work of hauling tourists around Boothbay Harbor. Under the skilled command of Caption Joe and his son Michael, the ship gives two hour tours around the harbor. Lots of great views of the islands, lighthouses and if you are lucky you might even see a seal, osprey or bald eagle. The two hour tour costs only 32 bucks for an adult and is an very cool experience. Capt Joe just doesn't prattle away the entire trip. He will point out various things of interest and answer all questions but he leaves enough quiet so the passengers can enjoy the sound of the ocean and wind. Unfortunately we didn't have a whole lot of wind so it wasn't as exciting as I hoped but it still was wonderful trip. Just so much to see and learn, the two hours went by so fast. You can bring you own booze and junk food on board and even take a turn at the wheel if you desire. These old schooners take a lot more sail management than the more modern sloops or catboats and just watching Michael and Joe constantly adjusting the sails was quite entertaining and educating. The tour runs from Memorial Day to the end of October and can also be chartered for all day excursions. A fantastic way to spend a couple of hours on the water and easily worth the 32 bucks. We returned all wind blown, a bit wet and a little sore but very, very happy.

    Photos
    Lazy Jack Cruises - Spectacular September on the Lazy Jack.

    Spectacular September on the Lazy Jack.

    Lazy Jack Cruises - Sails need a lot of work

    Sails need a lot of work

    Lazy Jack Cruises - Lovely views

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    Lovely views

    Cabbage Island Clambakes - Cooking

    Cabbage Island Clambakes

    4.9(168 reviews)
    1.1 mi
    $$$$

    This truly is an amazing adventure, don't hesitate. BOOK THE EXCURSION!…read more ** Cash or check only! I've been vacationing in Northern Maine for 37 years, and we just recently started venturing out to Southern Maine. I came across Cabbage Island Clam Bake via social media late last year. I finally made a point to visit this year. Booking online was very easy. I booked our trip back in December. No payment needed. You pay upon arrival on the day of your trip. Book in advance if possible. They will fill up fast. They cater to special events as well, so reachout if you need to book something. There are a few things to choose from for meals, even for children, incase lobster is not your thing, or maybe you simply are lobstered out and want to have an experience. Communication was fantastic as the date grew closer. We received email confirmation back in December, but June into July it ramped up with maybe an email here or a text to confirm 1-3 times. We did change one of our meals from the chicken to lobster with a simple phone call a few weeks in advance. They were very accommodating and pleasant. We received email confirmation when that was complete. Their website is filled with lots of information. I also watched a few videos via social media to get a feel for what to expect. The day came for our CICB! We went on 7/5/25, afternoon excursion. We arrived a little before 11:30am, checked in and paid an estimated $97 per person. Price will vary. The website has that broken down for you. We waited behind the ticket booth in the shade. When boarding came we were one of the last to board. Once onboard the Benie Alice we were greeted by many of the crew. You could opt to pay for some drinks on board. Bring a sweater, even if it's hot outside Maine summers can be on the cooler side. The bottom level was cold for many as windows were open, and the water air was filling in. The upper deck was warmer, but the seating is limited to about 99 passengers. The front of the boat outside definitely is cold due to the air coming at you when it is moving. The back of the boat is the warmest and most comfortable I found for myself. When we arrived we found seating at an outdoor picnic table in the Hideaway section. It was so nice and secluded! Good to restore any sensory overload we all had. There are many picnic tables around, an indoor seating area, restrooms, bar, kitchen, and small gift shop. Once we were seated our waiter Will came and introduced himself. He also took our drink order. Tea(hot or iced), coffee, and water are apart of your meal. There are sodas and mixed drinks for sale paid via cash. Will brought out the fish chowder. It was FANTASTIC! So good. I added a little salt and pepper, others kept it the way it came. I ventured to check out the lobster being cooked along with all the other fixings. It honestly was so fascinating watching all the hard work that was going into preparing the food. They clearly have this all down to a science and work like a well oiled machine. So many of staff/family took time to chat with guests. Everyone was so nice! A bell went off and we headed to get our food. The line moved pretty quick. On a tray we had 2 lobsters, clams, a potato, melted butter, an onion corn on the cob and an egg. Everyone was superb! We finished with coffee and their famous blueberry cake. The cake was moist, houses many blueberries and had a small crunch on the top. It was a decent size piece as well! This entire experience was wonderful! It's in my list to return if I'm in the area! I'll be recommending it so many! TIP THE STAFF. Jars are on the picnic table. THANK YOU MOORE FAMILY and CREW! You all did an amazing job from day one! Can I be adopted... hehe. Have a wonderful rest of the season.

    What an amazing experience! Highly highly recommend and would come back again!…read more This is a family run business operating for 37 years. This is not just a meal, it's an excursion with a boat tour. The clam bake is on a private island owned by the family. Family members walk around and greet you on the island. Betty is one of the sisters. She is 73. Her son cooks lobsters. A nephew was collecting tickets. Some are servers. The pride and love shows. I walked over to see the area where the lobsters and clams were steaming and someone was explaining the process to one of the customers. We were blessed with beautiful weather, so to be fair I think it would not be as enjoyable if it was too hot, cold or rainy. Don't miss out on this epic experience.

    Photos
    Cabbage Island Clambakes - Beautiful sunset by the water

    Beautiful sunset by the water

    Cabbage Island Clambakes - Clams

    Clams

    Cabbage Island Clambakes - The boat Bennie Alice

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    The boat Bennie Alice

    Carefree Boat Club Maine

    Carefree Boat Club Maine

    5.0(3 reviews)
    1.2 mi

    We've been members at Carefree boat club in NC for over 6 years, and absolutely love it! It seems…read moreas if it is too good to be true, but it's not! You reserve a boat, it's clean and ready when you get there, you boat happily for the day and you grab your things and walk off the boat! No cleaning, no maintenance, no storage! We use boats at different Carefree boat clubs around the country and everyone is always so welcoming and kind! Ed and his dock hands Oliver and Griffin at Carefree boat club in Boothbay were no different! We had an awesome day on an awesome boat and were treated like family! If you are a boat lover SIGN UP TODAY!!! You won't regret it!

    Wow, talk about a 5*, AAAA, A++, First class experience. From the initial phone call confirming the…read morereservation followed by the greeting at the parking lot Ed Bernard, the owner, was a pure professional (a class act), with the utmost pride, care and accommodating nature. I was a last minute request right after the recent tropical storm, and Ed went out of his way to make sure we had a pristine boat cleaned, fueled and ready to go without a hitch. Ed met us right at the parking lot (free parking by the way!) with his deckhand Griffin (also fantastic) and they helped haul our gear down to the dock and load it on to the boat and in to the coolers. Ed gave us a nice tutorial of the brand new electric throttle vessel.. and within minutes... get this.. they shuttle us out of the narrow slip to the open edge because it is tight quarters. Never quite seen such service! Me and one of my best friends were out for about 6 hours and had a fantastic time. Griffin (the deck hand I mentioned) met us at the edge of the slips and took care of ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING. They of course meet you on the way back in as well because they don't want their members to stress about docking in the tight slips!! I was amazed. We only had to take our phones and our backpack. No worrying about trash, empties, fuel nothing. Thumbs up guys! Look forward to next time!!

    Photos
    Carefree Boat Club Maine
    Carefree Boat Club Maine
    Carefree Boat Club Maine

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    West Harbor Recreation - boating - Updated May 2026

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