Star Island Mail Boat Now Open to Guests

SEACOAST -

Starting June 20, Seacoast Maritime Charters, in conjunction with Star Island Corporation, will be offering a ride on the mail boat to Star Island at the Isles of Shoals. Subject to availability and by reservation only, members of the public may ride the M/V Utopia and the M/V Shining Star on scheduled daily runs to supply the Oceanic Hotel on the historic island.

Star Island supports a population of up to 400 people in the summer and has changed little since its heyday in earlier centuries. The island is known for its sustainability program and for having the largest off- grid solar power array in New England. These leisurely, informal trips provide an insider’s view into the comings and goings of island life. On a typical trip, guests will ride out with mail, food, and freight, along with commuting island staff, hotel guests, and volunteers. Some trips include a stop at the local lobster wharf to pick up the evening’s meal.

In summer, coastal weather is generally calmest on the morning trips; guests may see seals, porpoises, and whales, in addition to gannets, loons, bald eagles, and other birds. The run takes about an hour, during which passengers are welcome to engage in conversation with the crew, help navigate the boat, or simply enjoy the ocean breezes and the sunshine sparkling on the water.

Once on the island, visitors have the opportunity for a 45-minute walk about or selfguided tour while the vessel is unloaded and readied for the return trip.

The service will run through October and helps support the non-profit Star Island Corporation, which maintains the island and allows for public visits like these. To learn more and reserve a space, call Captain Jack Farrell at 207-337-0446 or visit www.seacoastmaritimecharters.com.

Flags at Half-Staff

STATEWIDE -

In accordance with a directive from President Biden, Governor Janet Mills has ordered the United States and State of Maine flags immediately lowered to half-staff through Saturday, July 9, in honor and remembrance of the victims of the mass shooting in Highland Park, IL. According to the directive, the flag “shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories