SWANS ISLAND

• Latitude: 44.1431
• Longitude: -68.4494
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Swans Island is a quaint and picturesque location situated off the coast of Maine, USA. It is part of Hancock County and is known for its natural beauty, maritime culture, and a peaceful, unspoiled environment. While Swans Island is not a major commercial marine port, it does have facilities to cater to local fishermen, recreational boaters, and private yachts.

Swans Island Marine Port Description

Location:

• Latitude: Approximately 44.15° N
• Longitude: Approximately 68.44° W
• Swans Island is located southwest of Mount Desert Island and is part of the Gulf of Maine.

Accessibility:

• Swans Island is accessible by ferry from Bass Harbor on Mount Desert Island, which is operated by the Maine State Ferry Service.
• The ferry service runs year-round, with more frequent trips during the summer season.

Marine Port Facilities and Specifications

Harbor Facilities:

• The main harbor on Swans Island is Burnt Coat Harbor, which provides moorings and anchorage.
• There are several smaller coves and inlets such as Mackerel Cove and Toothacher Cove suitable for smaller boats.

Docking:

• Burnt Coat Harbor has a public dock in addition to private piers.
• The public dock may be limited in length and draft capacity, so larger vessels should check ahead.

Moorings:

• The harbor offers mooring options for transient and seasonal boats. It is advisable to contact local authorities for availability and reservations.

Anchorage:

• Safe anchorage areas are available within Burnt Coat Harbor. Mariners should be mindful of local tides and weather conditions.

Navigation:

• The entrance to Burnt Coat Harbor is marked by navigational aids including buoys and markers. Mariners should reference nautical charts for the most current and detailed information.
• Local waters can be rocky and may have varying depth profiles, requiring careful navigation.

Services:

• Limited marine services are available. Boaters can find basic supplies and services, but advanced repairs or specialty services may require a trip to larger nearby ports such as Bar Harbor or Southwest Harbor.
• Fuel and fresh water might be limited, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.

Lodging and Amenities:

• Swans Island offers a small number of lodging options, including bed-and-breakfasts and rental cottages.
• Small shops and eateries provide the essentials, but choices might be limited compared to mainland towns.

Activities:

• Swans Island is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including sailing, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and bird watching.
• The historic Burnt Coat Harbor Light Station is a notable landmark and a point of interest.

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Environmental Protection:

• Swans Island is known for its pristine natural environment; conservation and protective measures are in place to preserve its unique ecosystem.
• Boaters should adhere to local regulations regarding waste disposal and environmental protection.

Local Regulations:

• It’s important to comply with local maritime regulations, especially those concerning fishing, anchoring, and wildlife protection.
• Contact the town office or harbor master for detailed guidelines and any potential restrictions.

In summary, Swans Island offers a serene and beautiful maritime setting more suited to smaller recreational boats and local maritime activities rather than large commercial shipping. Its charm lies in its tranquility, natural beauty, and the welcoming nature of its local community.