Peaks Island Lobster Bake

Cruise to nearby Peaks Island for a traditional Maine lobster bake with all sorts of delectable side dishes at a quaint New England inn.

After a short walk from the pier, you will board a ferry bound for Peaks Island, which lies just three miles offshore. Although it will only take about 15 minutes to reach the island, the crossing of sparkling Casco Bay will be wonderfully picturesque.

You will pass the 19th-century Bug Light Lighthouse, an elegant cast-iron lighthouse with Corinthian columns that was modeled after a monument that stands near the Acropolis in Athens. You may also spot Fort Scammel on neighboring House Island, which was erected prior to the War of 1812 to protect Maine’s coastal communities.

First settled by the Abnaki Indians, Peaks Island started to flourish in the late 1890s, as Portland’s population grew, hotels and cottages were built and an amusement park went up. It is hard to imagine, but Peaks Island was once called the “Coney Island of Maine.” Today, the population is about 1,000, and the lifestyle is low-key and quintessentially New England.

Upon arriving, you will walk to the nearby Inn on Peaks Island, a seasonal lodging that features outstanding views of the sea and classic Maine cuisine. Here, you will enjoy a traditional lobster bake that will include New England clam chowder, steamed mussels and sides such as corn on the cob. If you wish to stretch your legs afterwards, there will be time.