A paddle to Damariscove Island is one of my favorite sea kayak trips on the Maine coast. From Ocean Point in East Boothbay, the distance to the picturesque sheltered harbor at the far southern end of the almost barren atoll is about five miles. Damariscove has a rich history which is particularly appealing for me. Entering and exiting the distant harbor can often be precarious so I’m careful to select a day with light winds and gentle seas. Identifying a Goldilock’s forecast; I posted a club trip with very short notice. Fortunately for me, Cath Kimball signed on. When we met at Ocean Point, it was sunny, warm, and winds were light. After paddling across Fisherman Island Passage, we proceeded southerly along the west side of Ram Island Lighthouse and elongated Fisherman Island. Traversing a channel to the northern terminus of Damariscove, the waters were remarkably calm. Approaching the southwestern end, I expected to see waves breaking over the treacherous shoals that populate the area. Nothing but benign two foot swells on this exceptional day. A lobster boat was loading traps when we entered the otherwise quiet harbor. As usual avoiding poison ivy was an obstacle on a hiking trail that leads to the rockbound scenic eastern shore where we enjoyed a leisurely lunch. The conditions were exceptionally placid departing around the southeastern tip of the island and an incoming tide helped propel us rapidly north along the eastern shore. Views of Outer Heron and the White Islands farther east were outstanding while kayaking along Fisherman Island to the beach on Ocean Point. Arriving at high tide, the carry to our vehicles was a short one. Neither of us could recall a more tranquil Damariscove trip.
Participants: Cath Kimball and TC
