2017 Visitor's Guide

ISLANDS

Chebeague Island Inn

WATERLOCKED WONDERS No visit to Portland is complete without venturing out to one of the nearby Casco Bay Islands. Dine at a fine Portland restaurant, stay in a comfortable hotel, then get out onto the sparkling waters in a number of fun and affordable ways.

GOOD TO KNOW

Those who make their homes on the populated islands of Casco Bay know just how different their lifestyle is from that of mainlanders. United by their reliance on ferry transportation in all weathers, islanders have created tight-knit communities that support each other but also welcome visitors to experience these special places. The Casco Bay Lines ferry offers daily trips to seven of the nearby populated islands as well as sunset and moonlight cruises, and a sunrise cruise for early risers. Or speed directly to the island of your choice on the Portland Sea Taxi, a private boat taking up to six passengers across the bay.

You can take bicycles on the ferry (extra fare charged) to ride around the laid back island roads. Restaurants serve dinner on Great Diamond, Peaks, and Chebeague Islands. Most ferries don’t carry autos, just passengers, except the Peaks Island ferry. There are no cars on Little and Great Diamond Islands, just golf carts and bicycles. In 1993, Long Island seceded from Portland to become the first new town in Maine since 1925.

Overnight camping is allowed on Little Chebeague, a state park, and the western shore of Cow Island, both only accessible by private boat or taxi. The nine-hole golf course on Chebeague Island was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015. With access via kayak, taxi or private boat, you can explore the ramparts of Fort Gorges, the hexagonal structure on Hog Island Ledge off Portland’s Eastern Prom.

HOW TO CHOOSE Each island has its own unique personality; check out visitportland.com/explore-the-area/casco-bay-islands for a brief overview of each of the islands. PHOTOS, FROM TOP: COURTESY CHEBEAGUE ISLAND INN; AMY TOLK/VISIT PORTLAND

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