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Historic Boathouse over Water, Stunning View, Private Pier + Dock + Mooring

Photo gallery for Historic Boathouse over Water, Stunning View, Private Pier + Dock + Mooring

Twilight serenity at The Boathouse.
Bathroom
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedroomsSleeps 8148.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Fireplace
  • Outdoor space
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Westport, ME
  • Boothbay Harbor Marina
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • Opera House at Boothbay Harbor
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
    ‪44 min drive‬
  • Wiscasset, ME (ISS)
    ‪17 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden

About this property

Historic Boathouse over Water, Stunning View, Private Pier + Dock + Mooring

Cozy renovated boathouse cottage, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath and wharf situated on 0.75 quiet, private acres on Westport Island -- right at the water's edge, with a private wharf.

This rustic, historic boathouse located right on the water's edge has been converted into a lovely cottage, suitable for families, couples or a singular retreat. The boathouse was orginally constructed in the 1800s has a lot of character. The terrain is sloped creating a private retreat with on-site parking. The main floor sits adjacent to a stone pier and at high tide the property is actually over the water. It is an open floor plan with a charming living area, kitchen and dining area. A large row of windows provide unobstructed views up the river and the wood burning stove provides comfort on cold Maine days and nights in Spring and Fall. Step outside onto a large gravel-topped pier for outdoor dining at the picnic table, a fire pit, bbq grilling and water viewing. Step down to the shore to kayak or beachcomb.

The 2nd level hosts the main entrance and a large, wrap-around deck. Three bedrooms and a modern updated bathroom are located here, each with views of the water. The floors are connected by both interior and exterior stairs.

The big sliding doors allow you to use the outside area easily and walk up the pier or wharf any time you wish. The surroundings, the tranquility, the stars at night, the slow ever changing movements of the water… it is all there for you to enjoy!

You can stroll the small beach at low tide or climb the rocks around it. You can even bring your canoe and launch it right at the house. Shore birds, seals, ospreys and wild turkeys are all commonly viewed, as well as local lobster boats and the occasional whale. Nearby a bed and breakfast hosts a fine restaurant serving locally sourced seafood, meats, and produce picked fresh from the farm. The property is a short drive from Damariscotta and Wiscasset, where Red's Eats is known for the best lobster rolls in the state! Boothbay Harbor and Bath are also close by either by drive or by boat ride.

The area has plenty of parks and hiking: Westport Island trails, Reid State Park, Popham Beach State Park and the Topsham walking trail.

For travelers with small children: please be aware that the house is at the water's edge.

Reservations can be made via VRBO/Homeaway only.

For boaters: during high tide you can easily dock at the wharf or stone pier, but not at low tide. We are planning to add a deep water float and mooring in 2022.

High-speed 400 Mbps Internet service via Spectrum with wifi around the property.

Upgraded furnishings and fixtures in the works:
- Brand new king platform bed and new memory foam mattress in the master bedroom for dreamy sleep
- A brand new couch in the main living area provides additional bedding
- Brand new Le Creuset cookware is perfect for cooking at home
- Brand new Weber propane BBQ grill is perfect for outdoor cooking
- Brand new Vitamin professional blender
- Fire pit provides great evening gathering place making smores or chatting or drinks
- Keurig machine, coffee grinder, milk frother and Aarke sparkling water maker hit those beverage needs
- Telescope for viewing the river and adjacent areas

A canoe and life jacket are available for use at no charge.
Two high-end sit-on-top fishing kayaks (not just for fishing :) are available for rent for an additional charge.

Property manager

Andy and Martha Gardner

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Water view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Weddings are available for a separate event fee.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
All renters are required to complete and return our rental agreement at least 2 weeks prior to arrival. This agreement is separate from VRBO.
We require a refundable property damage deposit through VRBO at time of booking.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 12
Note from host: Weddings are available for a separate event fee.
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Wiscasset

Located in Wiscasset, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Fort Edgecomb State Historical Site and Castle Tucker are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Maine Maritime Museum and Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Boothbay Railway Village and Maine State Aquarium are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Westport, ME

What's nearby

  • Boothbay Harbor Marina - 43 min drive - 38.9 km
  • Opera House at Boothbay Harbor - 43 min drive - 39.0 km
  • Burnt Island Living Lighthouse - 43 min drive - 39.0 km
  • Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens - 44 min drive - 38.1 km
  • Cabbage Island - 47 min drive - 40.8 km

Getting around

  • Brunswick Station - 38 min drive
  • Wiscasset, ME (ISS) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens - ‬44 min drive
  • ‪Robinson's Wharf - ‬46 min drive
  • ‪Dunton's Doghouse - ‬43 min drive
  • ‪Pinkham's Gourmet Market - ‬41 min drive
  • ‪McSeagull’s Restaurant - ‬43 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic Boathouse over Water, Stunning View, Private Pier + Dock + Mooring pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Historic Boathouse over Water, Stunning View, Private Pier + Dock + Mooring?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic Boathouse over Water, Stunning View, Private Pier + Dock + Mooring?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Historic Boathouse over Water, Stunning View, Private Pier + Dock + Mooring located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 2.5 mi (4 km) from Long Ledge and within 12 miles (20 km) of Brooks Point and Monkey C Monkey Do. Lincoln County Jail Museum is 11.4 mi (18.4 km) away.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 37 out of 44 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 44 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 44 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 44 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 44 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Allison L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice place

This was a unique property with great views of the water. Very nice new dock. The owner provided a lot of helpful information about the area.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steve O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Get Away Location

Charming rustic cottage situated on the water. The outdoor area was perfect for our needs, featuring a fire pit and ample comfortable seating. The dock was fantastic for swimming, relaxing, and securing our boat. Each day, we explored a different destination by boat, indulging in local dining and taking in the stunning views. I highly recommend this property to anyone seeking a peaceful getaway.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christopher K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very nice quiet area. Awesome sunrises

Great location not to far from Restaurants and other things to do but far enough away to enjoy time away from crowds.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Janet C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect vacstion

The Boathouse is perfect for our needs. Comfortable beds. Well equipped kitchen…coffee makers, microwave, toaster. Also has a Webber grill and a fire pit outside. Picnic table and plenty of outside seating. Fantastic dock and deck. And a killer view of the Sheepscot!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Enjoyable family cacation

Beautiful location, very well-equipped, great water activities, saw seals, lots of nice amenities (loved the espresso machine). Cat and dog thoroughly enjoyed themselves - nice walks, dinners in Wiscasset, lobsters at Five Islands. We all experienced amazing sleep!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Molly P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great family get away

Simply fantastic location and home- had every amenity needed and was able to sleep 6 adults, two children) . We saw incredible wildlife (bald eagles, osprey, porpoises, loons, even a humpback whale made an appearance). Hosts were very responsive. Would definitely return.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

amie o.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect spot for a quiet get-away

This is our second trip to the Boathouse to celebrate our anniversary. The new owners have clearly put a lot of time and love into making it even better than the first. New dock to now access the water. Beautiful new rock patio and firepit to enjoy those Maine mornings and chilly evenings. And of course the rustic but beautifully appointed boat house to unplug and relax. Can’t wait to go back!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debra R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place

This converted boathouse is so perfect. Has plenty of room and all of the amenities we needed. The view is absolutely stunning. We never even went out to eat, we'd get carryout and bring it back to the house because you couldn't beat the view. The location is very peaceful. We loved everything about this place.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Janet C., New Hampshire

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome location

I’m a repeat customer to Boat House at Westport View is wonderful. Home is cozy but has everything we need Many improvements from last year. Brand new dock, And landing for boats. Two kayaks, Webber grill fire pit. Also brand new outside
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jolene B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dreamy

We all had a wonderful time. Something for everyone. The house is completely charming, the view and area spectacular. I noticed they didn’t have a tv, so we brought our own and that worked out fine.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

2/10 Terrible

Daniel G.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Terrible Experience -Host canceled night before on us

This host tried to force us to sign something he typed up himself. He also tried to nickel and dime us by charging us $350 for kayaks and other add ons. I actually thought he was wanting me to sign the Kayak rental I didn’t realize he took it upon himself to create his own seperate agreement. VRBO told me I was not obligated to sign and Andrew the host canceled the reservation at 10pm the night before we were to check in, terrible experience
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

amy b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible spot!

First off…I don’t even want to type this review as I don’t want anyone else to find this gem. Everything from the first communications with the owner to the day we left went perfectly. Fantastic communication and much appreciated advice on things to do. The house is exactly what we had hoped it would be. The views are amazing and the location is wonderful. The owners built a new dock and float that are top notch. We simply love it. You know it’s a great trip when you simply don’t want to leave. I started researching squatters rights though realized we at some point had to come back to reality…. Needless to say, we highly recommend this property.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert and Ann L., Duluth

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Midcoast Haven!

This being our first time in Maine we wanted a uniquely Maine experience and this converted boathouse on the sea was everything we had hoped for. The tide comes in and out right beneath the house, and if you have rain, the sound of the drops falling on the roof as you sleep is pure heaven. We travel a lot and seldom are we so sure that we want to come back to a place. We found the location perfect for further exploring, but we rarely wanted to leave! While the rental has been recently acquired, the hosts are already pros at communcation. The ambience is really special, the master bed is very comfortable and the furnishings and kitchen are well done. Thanks to the new owners for allowing others to share their wonderful place.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

quentin w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our home away from home

This is the fifth time we have stayed at the Boathouse in the last seven years. Needless to say we love it there. It's a wonderful stay for a couple on their own (us) or a couple with (older) kids and we have had friends stay for a few nights in the past. The downstairs windows looking out over the river are an ever-changing delight - who needs a TV screen? The kitchen is fully equipped and we love to have the wood stove lit to provide our screen time (and warmth) when the night grows dark. The king bed is very comfortable. The shower is a good size with good water pressure but there are a couple of places that need some deep cleaning. We appreciate the new owners' willingness to honor the booking made before they purchased it and they were very pleasant people and easy to deal with.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Thomas D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mini adventure

What a terrific escape! My family and I enjoyed this fabulous property for a 5 day / 4 night break from the 'real world.' Even as a native New Englander, I never fully appreciated the rugged beauty of Maine until we were able to live it like locals this summer. Andy was a very gracious host and the property more than lives up to the spectacular photos on the website. A humpback whale made multiple appearances just 100 yards off the end of the dock and we saw porpoises up close while paddling in the kayaks. We fished (without luck) but had fun crabbing, swimming, walking and jogging. The road is so pretty and the patio is the perfect place to hang out with a fire, a book, and the ballgame on the radio. The house is both comfortable and filled with vernacular charm. What a treat! The tourist attractions are predictably fun, especially Booth Bay Harbor. If you go in to town to run errands, Shaws (670 Bath Rd); Garden Island Laundry (681 Bath Rd); and Ames True Value Hardware (447 Bath Rd) are go to stops. Treat yourself to breakfast at Market Place Cafe (681 Bath Rd) while your clothes are in the spin cycle. This is where the locals go and the coffee alone is worth the trip. Every trip should be this good! Thanks Andy!!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful setting

Lovely location and a well-appointed home in a stunning setting. Enjoyed the canoe (kids saw seals!) and the fire pit. We hated to leave!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Eric P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful solitude in gorgeous spot

Amazing views. Very peaceful setting. If you want solitude and a tastefully renovated historic dwelling this is the place for you. If you want to be close to Damariscotta or Boothbay just know it’s a pretty good drive. My one recommendation to the owners is consider fixing the stairs to be equal heights — it’s an accident waiting to happen, especially for kids and older people.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

8/10 Good

Jimmy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Issues

We enjoyed the area The unit was very remote for us but still nice view and ambiance The frig had leftovers in it Dishwasher seemed to not have been run Otherwise very goidy
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Edward B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful spot

Porpoises. 'nuff said.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Matt C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice spot by the water

Had a beautiful time exploring the river and enjoying the sunrise. Great amenities everything was lovely.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

8/10 Good

Mariel S.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location

The best thing about this place is the beautiful setting. The location just can’t be beat. We enjoyed the fire pit outside every evening as well as daily walks. Close to lots of things if you’re wanting to do day trips. We took a ride one day to Blanchards ice cream and it was the best ice cream we’ve ever had. We squeezed 4 adults and 4 young kids in, which worked for us but some people might not like. It is a tight squeeze, which we knew going in as we’ve stayed at the boathouse before and is so worth it for the setting. Very easy and straight forward check in. We were wishing there was some sort of informational packet or binder. What to do with trash, bedding, towels etc. and what the expectations were for checking out. While the host was very easy to get in touch with, it’s a nice touch to just have all the info you need on hand. Was also wishing there was a larger supply of toilet paper and paper towels on hand. Again, host was easy to get in touch with and they did reach out to ask if we needed anything during our stay. At the time we didn’t, but come the last day we were looking for another roll or paper towels. Just things to keep in mind. Overall great stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Chandra B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Little Piece of Paradise

We absolutely loved the boathouse and the views from the surrounding area. Saw a bald eagle every day of our stay, and plenty of deer. We particularly enjoyed the extra mile Andrew and Martha have gone to ensure one’s safety and overall enjoyment. My husband and I both need some of those motion detection night lights! On our way out we picked up lobster from the North End Lobster Coop to share with my brother…so good. We also went to Five Islands Lobster on Georgetown Island, and found it way too busy. Stopped off at Georgetown Country Store where their lobster rolls would give Reds a run for their money (on special 2 for $32.99). Another favorite dining spot was Robinsons Wharf on Southport Island where the fried clams were on special, and probably some of the best I have ever had. Although the weather wasn’t 100% cooperative, we still had a wonderful and memorable stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Great Spot

Perfect location. Far enough away from The tourist-y locations but close enough to enjoy them without being trapped there. We loved everything about the property - pier, firepit, a perfect getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Janet C., New Hampshire

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The View …. Amazing!!!

Have rented the boat house for quite a few years..probably two with the new owners Location cannot be beat. The boathouse is very well equipped, kitchen has pretty much all we need. There was a shortage of teaspoons but no big deal Beds are comfortable. Like the addition of all the night lights. And the fact that dogs are allowed is a definite plus.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

8/10 Good

Panya P.

Liked: Check-in, communication

The Quite Getaway

It was wonderfully peaceful and a great place to unwind.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Andy and Martha Gardner

Host profile image

Why they chose this property

As a kid, I spent my summers playing here in Swanton Cove: rowing, fishing, climbing on the rocks and playing in the mud at low tide, all under the watchful eye of the Boat House. Rowing under the long pier was tricky when the tide was super high and at low-tide the muddy beach suctions your feet down deep if you don't move fast enough. my siblings and I spent hours collecting periwinkles off the side of docks (they are great bait for crabs), navigating the slippery seaweed to climb the rocks out at the point and rowing aimlessly around the cove.

But now, 40 years later, my husband, Andrew, and I are excited to have the opportunity to own the BoatHouse. It feels a bit like owning a small piece of my family history and I hope to pass on the legacy of the Swanton Cove not only to our 11-month old daughter Samantha but also to visitors from far and near.

Languages:

English