Lazy days in Penobscot Bay—Islesboro and Vinalhaven

The days on the water and the nights are getting cool, so we are pointing the bow somewhat south. We made a slow pass through Islesboro, visiting Warren Island State Park and hunkering down for two days of strong winds. The park looks awesome for camping, and while the trails were nice, we had to do them twice just to get a good bit of exercise in.

Brrrr!

And we finally made it to Vinalhaven! Perry Creek was an absolute delight with its serene atmosphere, abundant hiking trails, and the sweet man that provides moorings to visiting yachts. All he asks is that we consider a donation to the Vinalhaven Land Trust (considered and done!). The hiking was so good that the dinghy was high and dry when we came back, even though we pushed it way out when we left.

Exploring Perry Creek from the “Roddy” mooring.

Next we spent a few days in Seal Bay. We didn’t see a ton of seals, but the birding, hiking, and dinghy beaching was just as fun here! We also had a brush with famous YouTube sailors (said hello, but continued on our way—I didn’t want to interrupt their enjoyment of this place) and a birthday celebration complete with Maine blueberry pancakes, fresh lobster alfredo (thanks, Lady J!), and Maine chocolate (Bixby) brownies. Such a great day and another awesome stop!

Seal Bay

As we rounded the south side of Vinalhaven we made a quick, rolly stop at Brimstone Island—the smooth, black cobble beach is unlike anything we’ve seen! From there, we headed to Hurricane Island for an afternoon stroll along the many trails there—its a cool, old granite quarry.

Brimstone Island

Hurricane Island

Alas, a failing water pump and empty cupboards are pushing us back to Rockland. But Vinalhaven is solidly on our “must return to” list! School also started this week so we have to play a little less and work a little more going forward, but the kids seem to have jumped right back into it!