5 days, 4 nights - lodge-based accommodation
Sept. 13 - 17, 2021
Arrive by ferry on the 13th, depart by ferry on the 17th.
Located 12 miles off the midcoast of Maine, lies the large island complex of Northhaven and Vinalhaven, known for its striking natural beauty and home to the largest lobster boat fleet on the East Coast. Here you will experience a full range of paddling opportunities from calm protected waters, to meandering channels through island thoroughfares, to the open seas along the southern coast. Pristine islands with white sandy beaches, deep penetrating coves providing shelter from the seas, and a meandering shoreline of spruce forest interrupted by simple to stately summer homes, provide the backdrop to our paddling experience. The adventure, however, reaches far beyond the seas surrounding this island archipelago. Take a walk down Vinalhaven’s main street, and a few side streets, and enjoy the wonderfully restored historic homes with beautifully-maintained gardens, stroll along miles of maintained hiking trails taking in the smells, sights, and sounds of the forest, and meet the some of the colorful residents of the island at the local diner. This is a place not to be missed, a place that warrants at least a week to explore, and a place that will lure you back again and again.
In addition, we will spend an afternoon aboard a Maine lobster boat with renowned ornithologists, john Drury, who will enlighten us on the sea birds that exists in this area, taking us to a Puffin population not seen by many off the Coast of Maine. John’s wealth of information not only about the sea life but Vinalhaven, lobstering and its history will add a whole new dimension to your visit.
Our home for the trip will be the Tidewater Motel situated right in the heart of the village overlooking the harbor. These individual rooms are all stylishly decorated with comfort in mind with private baths and balconies overlooking the harbor - a first class motel in the heart of the island. When we are not paddling there will be ample time to walk around the village, visit the historical society, check out the beautifully landscaped yards, and historic buildings including restored captain’s homes.
This is a trip all levels of paddlers can really enjoy and to me offers some of the best kayaking anywhere in Maine!
Cost: $1795 per person based on double occupancy; those who want a single room $2195. If you plan to come with a non-paddling partner (spouse, girl or boyfriend, etc…) the price will be $2695 total.
Price includes: Roundtrip ferry service from Rockland, accommodations for four nights, Lobster boat tour to outer islands, skills training throughout the week, meals as noted on itinerary, kayaks and related gear, and professional leadership by H2Outfitters’ staff and Registered Maine Guide(s).
