Get Started
If you are new to boating or don’t own a boat, you can still get out and explore the Maine Island Trail. Start with the rentals, guides, lessons, and tips below. It’s never too late to make your maiden voyage on the Maine Island Trail!
First, download our free app to put info on our most popular islands in your pocket. (To unlock all app content—and get the ultimate Trail Guide—join or renew your membership.)
No boat? No problem.
BOAT RENTAL AND CHARTER DISCOUNTS
Our members can access substantial discounts from businesses, guides, and charters along the coast.
KAYAK RENTALS AND GUIDES
The Maine Association of Sea Kayak Guides and Instructors lists rentals and guides by region so you can connect.
BOAT SHARING PROGRAMS
Freedom Boat Club, a boat-sharing service, gives MITA members a one-time discount of $1,000 on the entry fee!
Explore Islands on the Trail with public transportation
DUCK HARBOR CAMPGROUND, ISLE AU HAUT From mid-June through late September you can access the campground by a Ferry from Stonington to Duck Harbor. Check the Isle au Haut Boat Services company for the ferry schedule. Space is first-some, first-served and it’s best to be there at least a half hour before departure.
LITTLE CHEBEAGUE ISLAND, CASCO BAY Take the Casco Bay Lines Ferry (from Portland) or the Chebeague Island Ferry (from Cousins Island) to Great Chebeague. Little Chebeague is then walkable at low tide. Time your arrival and departure times according to the tides and be ready to get your feet wet! Don’t forget to factor in walking time, as you’ll need to traverse the length of Great Chebeague (about an hour’s walk) and then cross the intertidal zone to Little Chebeague.
LITTLE RIVER ISLAND, CUTLER HARBOR This island features a historic light station that you can tour or book for an overnight stay. Boat transportation is provided for open house visitors and overnight stays.
PORTLAND WATER TAXI SERVICES such as CBA Water Taxi and Foggs Water Taxi, will carry you to/from Casco Bay islands, including Cow Island, Little Chebeague and Jewell Island. Bring a group to split the fee and make the trip more affordable. SWAN ISLAND, KENNEBEC RIVER A ferry service for day users and campers is available from the town of Richmond, Maine by reservation. Swan has 12 overnight sites available, including 10 shelters, 1 campsite, and one large group site. Camping reservations are required.
WARREN ISLAND, LINCOLNVILLE Quicksilver Water Taxi can take you to this destination. For a fee, you can stay at one of the 9 campsites and 3 group camping areas. Reservations are recommended.
Go with a group
Find navigation and cruising guides
Build your confidence and your skills
Take your boating skills to the next level with courses from reputable instructors and organizations, like:
Visit our Events page to find recordings of online events. These events cover fun and interesting topics like:
Whether you are buying your first boat, renting one for the day, or going out with a guide, it’s important to know about boating safety equipment and guidelines. Learn more at these sites:
Tips on buying a boat or sea kayak
SEA KAYAKS
Learn how to demo and choose a sea kayak from the experts at Maine Kayak Co
POWER BOATS AND SAIL BOATS
Discover Boating Boat Buyers Guide
BROKER ASSISTANCE
Work with a certified yacht broker like those at East Coast Yacht Sales to ensure that you get the most experienced brokers and the best deals.