While Maine is a perennial favorite among summer cruising destinations, this summer the state has seen a big boost in boat traffic. Part of the reason stems from concerns over COVID-19, keeping a number of megayachts from crossing the ocean to Europe. Another, however, is the hotter-than-usual season, keeping the classic New England fog at bay. The abundant marine activity shows no signs of slowing down, either, with these eight megayachts making Maine their summer destination.
1. Aspen Alternative. Boothbay Harbor, one of the state’s most famous yachting destinations, has attracted the 164-foot (50-meter) charter yacht Aspen Alternative. If she looks familiar, it may be because Aspen Alternative starred in the Overboard movie remake.
2. Atalante. Sailing yachts love the long stretches of coastline in Maine. The picturesque city of Camden and its harbor have caught the attention of Atalante (above), a Truly Classic 127. Private cruises as well as regattas are the owner’s preferences.
3. Big Eagle. Big Eagle is not only among the megayachts making Maine their summer destination, but also one of the oldest. She launched 40 years ago and has been an active charter yacht essentially ever since. Spotted in the Bar Harbor area this week.
4. Excellence. Residents of Boothbay Harbor and other areas around Maine have been buzzing about Excellence (above) in recent weeks. Her 262-foot (79.95-meter) length and distinctive profile make her hard to miss. Particularly, the 60- to 80-mm-thick glass dominating her superstructure has a silvery, reflective layer, mirroring the surrounding scenery. The view from inside is just as impressive, too.
5. Full Moon. As pretty as her blue hull is, this 140-foot (42.6-meter) Feadship has attracted attention due to her sailboat tender. The custom boat sits on Full Moon’s foredeck, but has been out cruising on her own a few times.
6. Infinity. This 290-footer (88.5-meter) is in the Bar Harbor region, under private use vs. charter. Infinity has previously spent time in New England waters, like Nantucket, and sometimes cruises with her support yacht, Intrepid.
7. Rising Sun. The largest of the megayachts making Maine their summer destination, Rising Sun has been in the state for the past few weeks. The 453-footer (138-meter) dotted the waters off locales like Mount Desert Island and Isleboro before heading farther down the state’s coast.
8. Silver Shalis. The harbor of Rockland welcomed Silver Shalis (above) earlier this month, before she ventured up toward Mount Desert Island. While at the dock in Rockland, the 180-footer (55-meter) dwarfed all the other boats.
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