Maine

As we pulled away from the island, we got a look at the resident seals.

Then we headed for the main land and to Lubec for lunch.  This is the easternmost point in the US.  Then to one of the most famous lighthouses in Maine.

From there we were off to Hamilton Cove, a lovely little place with round pebbles.

Then off to see Art & Megan's construction site for their new home.  The view out their front window is breath taking!

Lupines were in bloom everywhere!

After spending a night in a wonderful apartment by the sea on Main St Eastport, it was time to contemplate returning to "Away".  A delicious breakfast, a few photos of Downeast Massage and we were back on the road!  A truly spectacular weekend!!!

THANK YOU Art & Megan!!!!!

Enjoy!

John and Cheri 

Puffins and Razorbills!!!

As Captain Andy talked about puffins and the inhabitants of Machias Seal Island, he was keeping a keen eye on the sea.  Before we knew it, he was saying, "OK, let's load the skiffs, but I still can't guarantee we can land!"  So we got on board and landed!

we had a quick briefing and then they took us to bird hides that allowed us to experience the birds from arms length!! WOW!!!

What a privilege to share an hour with these cute critters!

Enjoy!
Cheri & John

Visiting Art & Megan Lindemanis - Eastport, Maine and beyond

We had been planning this specific trip for the past six months, but in truth we had been eyeing a trip to Machias Seal Island for many years.  Art and Megan has moved to Down East Maine and we had promised to visit.

As we headed north in a rain storm on a Friday night, we were praying the weather really would clear as promised on Saturday.  We arrived at the Riverside B&B around 10 PM to be greeted by Art and Megan!  It had been months since we had seen each other so we started to catch up with a glass of wine and the next thing we knew, it was 11:30.  The alarm was set for 5:10 AM and bed was calling!

We awoke to a brilliant, cloudless, sunny blue sky!  Yeah - for once the weather forecasters got it right!  After a yummy breakfast we were off to the docks in Cutler.  Machias Seal Island is 10 miles off the coast of Maine in very tricky seas.  The tide is often 14-15 feet and changes four times a day!  We loaded onto the boat in great anticipation of seeing Puffins!

We passed a light house at the edge of Cutler Harbor.

Before we knew it, we were approaching Machias Seal Island.  Unfortunately a low swell had started to be a problem.  the storm system from the previous day was now affecting the sea where we were trying to land a small skiff onto the island.  For a while it was looking like we would make due with watching the comedic puffins from the big boat.

After having seen only 20 birds in Scotland, we were truly amazed to see 100s of puffins, razorbills and other sea birds!