MY FAVORITE HARBOR:  ROQUE ISLAND, MAINE

Written by Katie Bloxham, Persephone

We have cruised in Maine for ten consecutive summers, and almost every year we have vowed to reach Roque Island.  That this year was only the second time we were successful says a lot about that challenges of getting there;  however it was well worth the effort!

Typically a trip to Roque Island begins in Mount Desert Island.  From there it is roughly a 40 mile sail east, keeping a close eye on the charts and for lobster pots.  The coastline is low, rocky and not particularly well marked.  Coming through a pass between fairly typical Maine islets (pine trees, rocks, seals), you suddenly find yourself in a stunning bay, with a long white sand beach surrounded by pine woods, meadows and an archipelago of small islands.  If the temperature was only 20 degrees warmer you could imagine yourself to be in the Virgin Islands!

Roque Island is privately owned by the Gardner family, and you are asked not go inland, however visitors are welcomed to walk along the beach, and hardy souls may choose to swim.  The islets form enticing coves, and there is plenty of exploring to be done by dinghy or paddle board.  The remoteness and tranquility encourages you not to use your outboard!  You are almost certain to see ospreys, eagles and seals.  You may encounter visiting scientists studying the fragile ecosystem and learning from preservation efforts.  At night, the only lights you'll see are from other boats.

There is plenty of room to anchor, and the holding is good in sand.  You are not yet in the region of massive tidal rise and fall so anchoring is straightforward.  

Why do I love this place?  This is one of the most beautiful spots in New England, as well as one of the most peaceful.  It's challenging to visit, with fog, cold, and dense lobster pots to contend with, but the reward of being in such an unspoiled place makes it even more worthwhile.  

What's your favorite harbor?  Email [email protected]