Southern Maine’s scenic Kennebunk River offers mariners a two-for-one deal, with plenty to see and do on both sides of the estuary!
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KENNEBUNK RIVER AT A GLANCE
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The Kennebunk River Story
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Kennebunkport maintains a personality all its own. Just a quick stroll around the town’s bustling commercial center, Dock Square, confirms you’re not in just any old ordinary Maine coastal berg.
Dockage, Moorings & Service: Town of Kennebunkport (207) 205-0991: The harbormaster’s office maintains one guest mooring, which can be used for a maximum of 3 nights on a first-come, first-served basis.
Chicks Marina(207) 967-2782: Full-service marina offering fuel, repair, and transient slips for boats up to 150 feet.
Nonantum Resort(888) 205-1555: Transient slips and dinghy dock for guests, as well as sailing and fishing charters, kayak rental, and more.
Launch Ramp: There is no public launch ramp on the lower Kennebunk River. Both Chicks Marina and the Kennebunkport Marina have ramps and a parking area that boaters can use for a fee.
Anchorages: Anchoring in the Kennebunk River is not recommended due to the changing currents and tides. According to the harbormaster’s website, the preferred area for safe anchorage outside the river is broadly defined by the following sets of coordinates:
43-20.56’N / 70-28.84’W
43-20.38’N / 70-28.88’W
Anywhere within a few hundred feet radius of either location will offer 20-plus feet of water at MLW, places you outside lobster gear, and will offer swing distances of over 500 feet.
DESTINATION KENNEBUNK RIVER
Dining: The Clam Shack(207) 967-2560: Follow the lines to this humble shack at the Taintown Bridge, which serves what many consider to be the best fried clams in Maine. Lobster rolls also a specialty, of course!
Saint Anthony’s Monestary: Boaters can visit the beautiful grounds and gardens of the chapel of St. Anthony Monastery & Shrine, home of Lithuanian Franciscan monks who welcome visitors by water. Tip: Go at high tide!
Cool Shops: Abacus(800) 206-2166: Venerable Dock Square shop full of interesting crafts and jewelry, including New England-inspired wall hangings, nautical jewelry, unique home furnishings, art prints, pottery, notecards, and more.
Compliments Gallery(800) 248-2269: Wide range of original home décor items, jewelry, hand-painted furniture, beautiful light fixtures, and more.
Sea Glass Jewelry Studio(207) 967-1982: Genuine sea glass paired with natural freshwater pearls, precious gemstones, and sterling silver to create unique jewelry.
Where to Stay: Nonantum Resort(888) 205-1555: Luxury resort on the Kennebunk River featuring transient slips and a dinghy dock for guests, as well as onsite sailing and fishing charters, kayak rental, a pool, and a restaurant.
Cape Arundel Inn & Resort (800) 514-0968: Luxury inn and resort with ocean views, fine dining, a clubhouse, and stunning amenities.
Boathouse Waterfront Hotel(207) 967-8225: Intimate hotel with 25 luxury guestrooms on the Kennebunk River near town. Also offers on-site parking, kayak & bike rentals, and an acclaimed restaurant.
Mabel’s House(207) 967-3315: Historic hotel with modern amenities, conveniently located near downtown Kennebunkport.