When people think of Maine, they tend to think of lobsters. The lobstering industry has always been a key component of Maine’s economy, dating back to the 1800s. Today, the fishery employs over 5,900 licensed lobster harvesters and is a multimillion dollar industry that supports a number of coastal villages throughout the state. Lobster is a featured component of many recipes enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, but have you ever wondered where those lobsters come from or what it takes to get them from the seafloor to your table? Now you have an opportunity to find out as you take part in one of the many lobster hauling excursions available in the Boothbay Harbor Region.

Step back in time as you board the Sarah Mead, Maine’s only sailing lobster boat. The captains of this Friendship Sloop will show you how lobsters were caught back in the day when traps were hauled by hand while the vessel was under sail. In addition to being Maine’s only sailing lobster boat, the Sarah Mead was recently outfitted with a new electric engine so that she does not burn fuel, making her completely green. Departing daily from the Spruce Point Inn in Boothbay Harbor, the Sarah Mead offers two hour sails and an unforgettable and unique experience.

Join Dana Sprague of The Lobstah’ Haul as he takes you on a lobster hauling excursion on the Damariscotta River.  “Damariscotta” is an old Abenaki word meaning “River of Many Fishes” and this estuary that flows into the Gulf of Maine is full of sea life. Dana will even cook up any lobsters you catch for an authentic lobster bake–it doesn’t get any fresher than that! Trips can be customized to your needs and depart from Newcastle.

Take part in Friendliest Catch Lobster Tours and climb aboard the working lobster boat Lady Esther. Let Captains Bruce White and Larry Knapp show you the ropes. See first-hand how lobsters are caught and measured, how traps are baited, and learn a bit about lobster biology. Trips leave Boothbay Harbor and are generally about an hour and a half long. Lobsters are available for purchase as well.

Brooke Hubner, Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce