Key facts
- The author took a day trip to Monhegan Island, Maine, via ferry.
- Monhegan Island is accessible only by boat and is car-free.
- The ferry ride to the island was on the historic Laura B, a World War II-era boat.
- The island features a museum, lighthouse, dramatic cliffs, and local events like a Cardboard Regatta.
- The return trip was on a larger, more modern ferry, the Elizabeth Ann.
The author recounts a day trip to Monhegan Island, a car-free island off the coast of Maine, accessible by ferry. The journey began on the historic Laura B, a World War II-era workboat built in 1943, which carried passengers, mail, and freight from Port Clyde. The 70-minute ride was described as bare-bones but charming, with the boat's interior featuring basic seating and restrooms, while the deck was laden with supplies for the island. Upon arrival, the author and a friend explored the island, visiting a café for breakfast, noting the absence of cars on the main street, and seeing a one-room schoolhouse. They visited the Monhegan Museum and lighthouse, offering views of the harbor, and then trekked to the island's east side to see dramatic cliffs, rocky coves, and tide pools. They also stumbled upon the annual Cardboard Regatta, a local event where residents paddle homemade cardboard boats. For refreshments, they visited the Monhegan Brewing Company. The return trip was on the larger, more modern Elizabeth Ann, which provided a heated cabin and a sightseeing loop around the island. The day concluded with ice cream at Village Ice Cream and a visit to Marshall Point Lighthouse near Port Clyde.