From our typical Boothbay Harbor abode of Topside Inn, we just walk down to the harbor. But since we were staying in Boothbay, we had to drive there. Fortunately, getting a parking space was easy in January, and it was free. We parked in the lot that is adjacent to the footbridge. The pay station is protected by a charcoal-colored covering in the winter: you can see them almost hiding behind the information sign next to the pedestrian bridge.
The bridge is used all year round.
Although the bridge is used, the dock has less traffic.
The bridge house looks cute with snow on it, but we suspect it would not be too warm.
From this direction it is easier to see that McFarland Island, with the round house, is indeed an island. The view from the Aquarium does not show that as clearly.
Looking towards the head of the harbor from the bridge, the many houses and businesses are evident. The 1st of these 2 pictures is on the western side (left as seen from the bridge) and the 2nd is on the eastern side of the harbor (right as seen from the bridge).
Although there are many docks, a view at low tide shows that only small boats can be brought in to this section of the harbor!
Many boats are not kept in the water over the winter, as evidenced by the empty slips, but some are. We also have the iconic little red shed.
Since this trip was in January, some of the Christmas decorations were still up. One was this 'tree' of lobster buoys.
Another was this sign for the 'Festival of Lights' That was held during the holiday season.
There are still many boats on the docks and used, even in January and even with snow. The path down to the dock can be tricky. We saw a man carefully and deliberately sliding his way down a different dock. We congratulated him on never losing his balance; he seemed pleased at having stayed on his feet.
The Novelty is a ferry boat that we often see bringing workers to Squirrel Island in May.
We carefully ventured on to the public dock.
Pier 8's Balmy Day Cruises are probably not thinking of cold snowy January days.
A little further down the harbor edge is Tugboat Inn and Restaurant.
The Carriage House that we stayed in last year made Tugboat extremely convenient. You can see pictures here, including the same view as this next photograph.
McFarland Island at low tide makes sailing into the harbor look dangerous. You can also see a construction boat with a large crane.
Updated April 2025