Cabbage Island
4.8(39)google
4.9(170)yelp
IslandBoatingCoastOutdoorPhoto SpotSlow-Paced
Overview
Situated in the scenic waters of Boothbay Harbor, Cabbage Island is renowned for hosting the ultimate, authentic Maine clambake experience. Accessible only by a scenic narrated boat cruise aboard the Bayside Explorer, this private island opens its shores to visitors looking to feast on fresh lobsters, clams, corn on the cob, and traditional blueberry cake. Guests can spend their day exploring the pristine shoreline, relaxing in vintage Adirondack chairs, and experiencing genuine, historic coastal hospitality that has remained unchanged for decades.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration4-5 hours
Best TimeAccessible exclusively during high summer from late June to early September via the legendary Cabbage Island Clambakes tour. Booking the weekend 12:30 PM cruise is highly recommended; the boat cruises through calm island waters, landing you on the island by 1:30 PM to feast on steamed Maine lobsters, clams, and corn cooked in seaweed pits beneath shady oak trees.
Getting ThereThis is a secluded offshore island with zero land access. The sole means of transit is via the dedicated excursion boat 'Bahl No. 1' departing from Pier 6 in downtown Boothbay Harbor. The scenic cruise takes about 25 minutes across the bay. Travelers without cars can catch a seasonal regional motorcoach (Concord Coach Lines) to Boothbay Harbor before heading to the designated pier.
Travel Tips
- Access to this private island is completely tethered to the Linekin II excursion vessel departing Boothbay Harbor; missing the single daily strict maritime departure window forfeits the non-refundable all-inclusive lobster bake ticket.
- The iconic rustic open-air cookout relies on heavy seaweed-steaming mechanisms; travelers carrying severe shellfish allergies must formally declare their clinical condition during initial booking to secure non-marine alternative courses.
- The exposed offshore marine location causes localized temperatures to hover over 10°C lower than the mainland pier; wearing professional heavy windproof outer layers is mandatory, and high heels are banned on the rugged earthen trails.
Reviews
Positive
- The traditional Maine clambake experience lives up to the hype! The lobsters are fresh and juicy, and eating seafood on the island with the ocean breeze is an unmatched value.
- The package including the round-trip scenic cruise, two whole lobsters, and all the sides offers incredible value. No hidden fees or tourist-trap feelings at all.
- The island is serene and beautiful. The rocky shores and pine woods are kept spotless, the dining queue is orderly, and the servers are fast and friendly.
- On the cruise, the captain shares engaging narration about local lighthouses and seals, making the transport convenient and adding great maritime fun.
Heads up
- The tours are extremely popular and spots are limited. Tickets must be booked weeks in advance online; walk-ins are completely unable to access the island.
- The dining areas are mostly outdoor or semi-open pavilions. If you hit rainy or windy weather, eating cooled lobster in the freezing air ruins the experience.
- For non-seafood eaters, those with shellfish allergies, or vegetarians, the alternative options (like chicken) are generic, lowering the value of the ticket.
- The rocky shores and dirt paths lack accessible walkways, making it tough to navigate for travelers with strollers, wheelchairs, or elderly relatives.