The Spectator’s Guide to the U.S. National Toboggan Championship

The U.S. National Toboggan Championships are held annually in February at the Camden Snow Bowl in Camden, ME. Thousands of racers and spectators come to Camden to partake in this exciting event each year. The 2021 Championships were postponed due to Covid-19, but for 2022 - Camden is geared up to make it an exciting event! February 11-13, 2022. 

We at the Captain Swift Inn want you to come and enjoy this event in the best way possible. Here are our best tips for making the most of a fantastic weekend:

1. Stay with us! Parking for this event can be a bit tricky due to the large influx of competitors and spectators. From our Inn, you can walk to the village green and catch a community bus that will take you back and forth from the event. No parking becomes no problem!
2. Dress for the event. The teams dress in fun costumes (like this), and spectators typically follow suit by wearing fun garb! Just be sure to add layers to your fabric expression. While there will be a bonfire, it can still get quite cold. You may also want to consider wearing ice trackers on your shoes for added safety. Most spectators spend a lot of time on the ice - Hosmer Pond. 
3. Bring a lawn chair and a cooler. Get comfortable while you are there, this is considered a bar-stool event. Consider bringing along a lawn chair for added comfort as you watch the toboggans shoot by. 
4. Food Trucks. When you arrive at the event, you'll be pleased to see that there are several food trucks in "tobogganville." Only worry about packing your chair and know that your hunger can be sated by local delights!
5. Go skiing. If you get tired of sitting on the sidelines, be sure to check out the downhill ski trails, which will remain open during that weekend. 
6. Saturday. If you can only attend the event for one day, choose Saturday, as that's the biggest day for the event.
7. Dress for the event. Be sure to check out the parade! The competing teams march around Tobogganville dressed in their fabulous costumes and it is truly a sight to behold. You won't want to miss it.
8. Check out Downtown Camden Maine. If you have some time while you're visiting, be sure to check out downtown Camden. It has upscale shops, antique shops, restaurants, and more.
9. Stay up to date. Keep an eye out on the official toboggan competition page and their Facebook page for up-to-date information regarding the weekend's events and other activities. Some years even have a chili cook-off, which is our personal favorite. Stay tuned to the even sites to make sure you're able to take in all that Tobagganville has to offer!
10. Don't take things too seriously and have fun! This event is filled with folks who just want to have a good time. The team names are usually hysterical, the costumes are stellar, and with the proper mindset, you're in for a real treat of a weekend.

At the end of your bustling day, take the community bus back to the Captain Swift Inn to relax, refuel, and recharge. We can't wait to see you!

Our Favorite Camden Maine Winter Activities 2021-2022

The seaside village of Camden, Maine is ideal for those that want to surround themselves with stunning winter harbor views, unique shopping, nature walks, and picturesque skiing. The Captain Swift Inn is open all year and is a great place to make your base for the perfect winter getaway. This list is in addition to our previous Winter blog, you can read here: Top Things To Do In Camden Maine This Winter 2020

The cozy fireplace rooms and signature hot chocolate of the Captain Swift Inn will be a wonderful complement to your winter adventures. Explore our favorite shops on Main Street - just walking distance from Inn -, or enjoy some winter outdoor fun nearby. 

Some of our Favorite Main Street Shops

Stay warm going in and out of charming downtown stores, collecting little trinkets for you or someone special. Here are some of our favorite Camden Maine downtown shops. 

Swan Island Company is a gift and apparel store on Main Street that specializes in all of those comfy, cozy, warm, and fuzzy things that remind you of wintertime. Whether you want to pick up something for yourself to keep you toasty on your winter vacation, or something special to take home to a loved one, Swan Island Company has something for everyone to enjoy, from baby clothes to blankets!

Once A Tree specializes in unique locally handcrafted gifts that you will not find anywhere else. These gifts range from gorgeous one-of-a-kind oyster shell bakers to rustic table lamps crafted with ocean-smoothed stones from the local shores. There are handcrafted bowls and furniture fashioned from the cherry and maple trees of Maine. Words truly cannot describe the care and quality that has been put into each of these masterpieces. You simply must stop in and see for yourself. 

Before creating and collecting home decor, Jo Ellen Designs was a fine artist and illustrator! Using these skills, she has crafted and curated a stunning collection of hand hooked rugs and pillows, that each tells a tale or portrays a unique perspective. There are other things to browse as well, including cute children's toys and painted ceramics. Jo Ellen Designs has been featured on The Today Show for her distinct style and you can stop by to see or purchase a piece for yourself in downtown Camden, a short walk from The Captain Swift Inn.  

Winter Hike

Take a winter nature hike at Beech Hill Preserve, in nearby Rockport. This nature trail weaves through lush wild blueberry fields. Because of the blueberry bushes, there is a lack of foliage or evergreen trees, allowing the sun to warm winter hikers as they meander up the hill.  You will find wonderful views of Penobscot Bay from the top of Beech Hill. Another highlight is a historic sod-roofed hut known as Beech-Nut near the summit. 

Skiing, Downhill Tubing

Camden Snow Bowl is the place for winter sports and it's not far from The Captain Swift Inn.  Here you can grab a half a day or full day lift pass and enjoy downhill skiing on one of their many trails of varying levels appropriate for all skiing levels - all with views of Penobscot Bay in the distance. There are also a number of beautiful nature trails for cross-country skiing, and the new one for the 2021-2022 season is DOWNHILL TUBING! 

Whether you're looking to book a family winter vacation or a romantic couples getaway, The Captain Swift Inn is the perfect place for you to lay your heads between memorable winter excursions. Located in beautiful downtown Camden, with new ownership and a total renovation in 2019, you can expect upscale lodging with a great breakfast! 

Lincolnville Maine, the hidden gem next to Camden Maine

The charming town of Lincolnville abuts Camden Maine via road, mountains, and sea.  A trip to the area is not complete without a tour of this charming town. From the gorgeous year-round views and serene coastlines to the local wines and amazing outdoor opportunities, you cannot go wrong spending the day in lovely Lincolnville. 

Cellardoor Winery 

For a truly delightful experience, the Cellardoor Winery has a state-of-the-art winery for creating distinctly Maine-made wines. The five-and-a-half acre estate vineyard has developed hardy hybrids to withstand Maine's climate, and today you'll find traditionally fermented wines like Bulles Rosé, dessert wines like Late Harvest Frontenac Gris, and their first-ever Ice Wine produced in 2018. You can choose from pre-set tastings, individual glasses of wine, or buy a bottle to enjoy with a locally-sourced cheese plate. Cellardoor Winery is open on the weekends. Reservations are required and can be made online. 

Enjoy the Local Trails 

The Ski Shelter Trail at Camden Hills State Park is a wonderful choice for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. It is a moderate, five-mile trail that follows the base of Megunticook, where you can see everything from forest to bogs, and an abundance of wildlife. As a multi-use trail, it is well graveled and popular with hikers, horseback riders, ski mobiles, and bicycles. It is open all year and is a popular cross-country trail in the winter. You can also access several trails in the northern section of Camden Hills State Park, including local favorite Bald Rock with its gorgeous views.  You can check out the trail map and plan the perfect route. 

Megunticook Lake Access

Another favorite spot for hikers, Fernald's Neck Preserve, is a nature preserve along Megunticook Lake. The mature trees of the uninterrupted forest are a sight to see. The trail system is a great place for wildlife viewings, such as bald eagles and loons that live on the lake. There's a lot to see on the 3.6 miles of trails, so be sure to plan ahead so you can take your time taking it all in. Near balance rock, there is even a place you can get your feet wet or take a swim in the freshwater lake.

Lincolnville Beach

Lincolnville Beach is a beautiful place to take a quiet stroll, lay on the real sand beach (at low tide), or watch the boats come and go from the nearby Iselboro ferry terminal. You can enjoy kayaking, boating, swimming, and fishing. There's no shortage of fun and exploration along the coast, and the bay is protected from big waves by the islands. You can also take a short ride out to the nearby island of Isleboro.

Lincolnville General Store

This charming Lincolnville General Store is a great place to grab breakfast or lunch. They use their wood-fired oven daily to cook pizzas, breads, meats, veggies, and more, so you're sure to find something delicious to try. A wide variety of baked goods, fresh salads, a unique wine selection, and locally crafted beers are some of the other treats you can find here. Of course, they also offer a great selection of grocery items and gift items. You're sure to find something tasty and unique at this local store! 

After a day of wine tasting, hiking, or enjoying the coastline, come back and relax at the Captain Swift Inn. Lincolnville is a short 15-minute drive from our front door and is a nice addition to your Camden Maine vacation. Contact us today to book your lodging for your next MidCoast vacation. We promise you'll experience the warm welcome and excellent service you deserve! 

Experience The Best Of Fall Foliage In Camden & MidCoast Maine

6 Ways to Enjoy Autumn in the Camden Maine Area

1. Hike the trails

2. Corn maze and hayrides

3. Enjoy local beer

4. Ocktoberfest

5. Enjoy a taste of fall at local restaurants

6. See the foliage from the sea

Leaf peeping season in MidCoast Maine is just beginning and lasts until the end of October. Some of the best fall foliage in New England can be found in the Camden and MidCoast areas, and there are a plethora of fun autumn activities. Located minutes away from shops, restaurants, and the coastline, our bed and breakfast serves as a base camp for exploring all that MidCoast Maine has to offer. Here are six activities that anyone can enjoy while taking in the beautiful Maine fall foliage.

Camden Hills State Park

Located along US Route 1, less than ten minutes from our inn, Camden Hills State Park has hiking and walking trails that lead to stunning views of fall foliage and Penobscot Bay. Each trail in Camden Hills ranges from easy to moderate difficulty, with most trails being less than one mile long. While every trail in this State Park is bounding with beautiful flora and fauna to learn about, two trails are part of Maine's Natural Heritage Hikes. These trails are historically significant and give hikers a chance to learn about Maine and New England history while basking in glorious fall foliage. The Megunticook and Ocean Lookout Trail lead to the summit of Mt. Megunticook, which has a stunning view of the ocean and forest that you just hiked through. You can read about the natural and cultural history of this trail here. 

Beth's Farm

Beth's Farm Market in Warren, Maine, has a quintessential fall corn maze and hayride. If you visit all the checkpoints within the maze, you get a free mini pumpkin. Beth's has a wide variety of fresh seasonal produce. In season now there are apples, beets, strawberries, and corn. 

Odd Alewives & Waterman's Beach Brewery

Odd Alewives Farm Brewery is located along Old Route 1 in Waldoboro. You can make reservations to sit by their fire pit and enjoy their variety of ales and wood-fired pizza. All of the ales at Odd Alewives are made with 95 to 100% Maine-grown ingredients. Their menu accommodates a variety of dietary restrictions and preferences, with ingredients like fennel and apple sausage, Tromboncino squash, and Cubanelle peppers. Located in South Thomaston, Waterman's Beach Brewery has a variety of artisanal brews including IPA's, stouts, and pale ales. Their Boat Builder Brown ale is perfect for fall with notes of dark caramel, cedar, and plum. Breathe in the salty air, listen to the waves, sip those hops, and relax before heading back to the inn.

Sterlingtown Public House - OktoberFest Beer Garden

The Sterlingtown Public House and Beer Garden is located in Union. Their menu includes appetizers like fresh bruschetta, main dishes like Baja tacos, and their Thai peanut rice bowl. Sterlingtown has non-alcoholic beverages like the local favorite Moxie. Their alcoholic beverage list changes regularly and includes Maine craft beer, local craft cider, and wines from around the world. Sterlingtown does not take reservations and has indoor and outdoor dining available.

Fresh & Co. and The Happy Clam - A Taste of Fall

One of our favorite fall menus is from Fresh & Co. The chef's use of local mushrooms, honeycomb, arugula, and apples throughout the menu sets the mood for fall enjoyment. Located in the heart of Camden, Fresh has global cuisine for every appetite. If you want to add a little Oktoberfest to your leaf-peeping, we suggest taking a drive out to South Thomaston to enjoy The Happy Clam. This pub is right near Tenants Harbor and is a favorite for fresh seafood and cocktails, like a Bloody Mary. The Happy Clam also has many classic German dishes such as Schnitzel and German Goulash. 

Schooner Surprise

For a view of the foliage from the ocean, there's no better boat than the Schooner Surprise. Located less than five minutes from our inn, Schooner Surprise invites passengers to come on day cruises and sunset sails through mid-October. The Surprise can even be rented on private charters for a minimum of two hours.  The Surprise offers birding and marine life tours during the day, so you can do your leaf-peeping and bird watching on the same cruise.

At the end of the day, retire and enjoy the Captain Swift Inn. We are Camden's newest totally renovated bed & breakfast inn, with inviting guest rooms and suites. Reflect on your leaf-peeping journey while lying on our plush mattresses, relax after a day of being outdoors in our spa showers and wrap yourself in a Turkish towel. Our three-course candlelit breakfast is a memorable way to begin your next adventure. Contact us today to book a stay at the Captain Swift Inn to receive the finest hospitality in Camden.                

A Day Trip to Acadia National Park from Camden Maine

Just a two-hour drive from Camden, ME lies one of America's premier natural environments, Acadia National Park. Boasting numerous ecosystems and enchanting seaside vistas, this park has beckoned travelers for generations. With a little planning, you can enjoy a day's adventure in Acadia during your stay with us at the Captain Swift Inn.

Check out our five must-sees for a day trip to Acadia. Pack a sturdy pair of hiking boots, fill your water bottle, and stock up on snacks before heading off to the park. You may also want to rent a bike from Maine Sport before leaving Camden. 

Start your day with our 8 a.m. candlelit breakfast seating so that you can maximize your time in the park. Then head out along Atlantic Highway (Rt. 1) through the towns of Belfast, Bangor, and Ellsworth, winding your way through Maine's famed pine forests. You should reach the park before 11 a.m. If you choose to drive through the park, consider that parking is at a premium. The Island Explorer Bus runs free throughout Acadia, hitting all the major destinations.

Sand Beach

With the sun high in the sky, you may want to head first to the aptly named Sand Beach. Changing rooms and restrooms are available so you can dress to hit the waves. Be mindful that water temperatures rarely rise above 55F/13C – prepare for a brisk swim! If the cold waters are too much, sunbathing is a reliable alternative. Lifeguard service is provided on a part-time basis.

Thunder Hole

A half-hour hike from Sand Beach, or a mere five minutes by car, Thunder Hole offers an unparalleled glimpse of the power of the Atlantic. The waves crash into this unique rock formation, creating the illusion of distant thunder. Walk right down the stairs to the shore, where the water can splash up to 40 feet high!

Jordan Pond

Jordan Pond lies inland about a 20-minute drive from Sand Beach.  Hiking trails of varying difficulty encircle this idyllic body of water.  Plan on a circuit of anywhere from one to four hours depending on your chosen route. Also, consider whether you would like to dine before or after your hike at Jordan Pond House, Acadia's only restaurant. (Note: business is lightest after 4 p.m.) Famous for its afternoon teas accompanied by fresh popovers, Jordan Pond House also features iconic Maine dishes like lobster stew and blueberry sorbet.

Cadillac Mountain

At a height of 1,530 feet (466 meters), Cadillac Mountain is the highest point on the Atlantic seaboard. Through fall and winter, the mountain is the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise. A trip up the mountain requires extra precautions. Obtain registration for your car before your trip, and stick to designated pathways to preserve the numerous endangered plant species found here. It is worth the extra effort to enjoy one of the most majestic panoramas in New England.

Carriage Roads

These century-old broken-stone roads meander throughout Acadia. Forty-five miles' worth of biking and hiking await you, taking you to most major sites in the park. Cycling enthusiasts can easily ditch their car at the park entrance and spend the day exploring the wonders of Acadia through pedal power.

The Captain Swift Inn in Camden, ME makes the perfect "base camp" for your adventures to Acadia and other parts of the great state of Maine. Contact us today!

Visiting the MidCoast Maine Islands from Camden Maine

 

If you're not familiar with Maine's MidCoast islands yet, now is the time to change that. With countless hiking trails and scenic cliff views, these islands are magical retreats from the main town of Camden that can generally be explored within a day. Most of these islands are only accessible via kayak or boat, making it even more of an adventure to visit. Whether you are seeking a relaxing staycation or an epic adventure, we've got you covered with our beautifully renovated guest rooms, impeccable hospitality, and local-only trip recommendations. Here are our top four day trip picks for exploring MidCoast Maine:

Curtis Island

Curtis Island is a quaint, gem-like 5-acre island located on the exterior of Camden Harbor. It is only accessible via boat or kayak. After enjoying a candlelit breakfast at the inn, head over to Maine Sport Outfitters. Rent a kayak or canoe and make your way across the calm, soothing waters. The island has multiple trails that you can explore, along with wooden chairs all around where you can picnic and enjoy lunch with beautiful views of the water. During low-tide seasons, you can also dip your toes or go for a light swim in the water. Get up close and personal with the Curtis Island Lighthouse, the pride and joy of this island. Although it is not open to visitors, you will find yourself in awe by simply looking at this magnificent landmark.

Monhegan Island

One of the best day trips from Camden is taking a boat to Monhegan Island, a treasured retreat about 10 miles off the coast of the mainland. Make sure that you start your day early to ensure that you have plenty of time to explore the island. From the inn, drive about 35 minutes south to Port Clyde. From there, you can take a one-hour ride on a ferry boat to Monhegan Island. It is highly recommended that you follow the ferry schedule here and reserve tickets in advance. Once you are on the island, you will have access to many hiking trails and scenic views. For lunch, treat yourself to a creamy bowl of homemade chowder at The Barnacle. Wash it all down with craft beer at the family-owned Monhegan Brewing Company. After you are refueled, take a nature hike to the east side of the island where you can see a shipwreck and soak in incredible views of the coast. 

Mount Desert Island

For a jam-packed day trip, look no further than Mount Desert Island. This island is covered by Acadia National Park and is home to 18 mountains (blessing you with a myriad of hiking paths). This island is accessible by car and is about an hour and a half drive away from the inn. Start your day as early as possible so you can trek the glorious Cadillac Mountain and catch an epic sunrise. Due to the number of people that visit, there are timed entries, so make sure you reserve that in advance. Make your way to the town of Bar Harbor and feast on a well-deserved brunch at Cafe This Way. Before embarking on another hike, check out the local gift stores and house-made ice cream shops. Spend the rest of your day exploring the beautiful trails, beaches, waterfront cliffs, and mountains that this island has to offer.

Islesboro

Islesboro is a fourteen-mile island in Penobscot Bay known for its beautiful nature preserves and peaceful island life. Only a 20-minute ferry ride from Lincolnville, this island is mostly free of commercialization and prides itself on offering raw and untouched landscapes for those who want to really experience nature at its finest. Make sure that you prepare your own food prior to going, as there are no food options available on the island. Go on a bike ride to explore hidden coves and nature preserves such as Herbert Preserve. For a more unique and remote adventure, take a boat to Warren Island State Park for an unbeatable nature experience. After exploring the beautiful coves and hiking trails, you will realize that you have discovered one of Maine's best-kept secrets. 

After a full day of exploring any of these islands, make your way back to Camden and treat yourself to one of the many neighborhood eats that we recommend. Take off those hiking boots and indulge in a relaxing bubble bath in our whirlpool tubs. Slip your feet into our plush room slippers and order a glass of wine from our extensive wine and spirits menu before ending the night. After all that exploring, don't hesitate to set aside a full day with us at the inn and book one of our relaxing in-room massages. Your body will thank you. Contact us today at Captain Swift Inn to book one of our beautifully appointed guest rooms and get treated with the best hospitality you will ever experience!

 

Things changed a little in Camden Maine this past year. We are pleased to announce that the town is still vibrant and charming. In addition to the lovely mountain and sea landscape that many come to visit, our guests enjoy the unique Maine gifts and treasures the Main Street stores offer. The Camden Restaurants provide local seafood and Maine brewed beers. While the consistent loveliness of the town is a reason to return year after year, we are pleased that there are some new businesses and activities to add to the mix.

Top (NEW) Things in Camden Maine:

There are new shops in the downtown. If you have been to Camden before, you know that there is an array of boutique shops. Camden’s Main Street is unique because it is not overwhelmed with touristy shops. The collection of stores offer beautiful and unique gifts. In addition to the long standing shops like Glendara Lavender Farm and Maine Sea Bags, there are several new shops in town. 

·       Wooden Alchemy, a wood art store, moved from Rockland to 19 Elm St. in Camden. Wooden Alchemy is the place where you can find the amazing wooden creations that have sprung from the mind of Rob Jones.  Taking birch plywood and other fine woods, he creates fun, collectible, and useful artistic pieces you'll cherish for yourself or as the perfect unique gift for someone special.

·       Oyster River Winegrowers - a small, farm winery in Warren is opening a retail and tasting room at 31 Elm Street, Camden. Enjoy locally made organic wine.

·       Blue Jay Baby Boutique – Located at 2 Main Street, the boutique sells adorable baby sweaters, blankets, books, stuffed animals and baskets. There are also products for moms, including jewelry, candles, bags and body products.

·       Conklin's Mercantile - located at 26 Main Street, recently relocated from Belfast Maine.  This store is committed to offering only American made products for sale, all fixtures, cabinets and furnishings, including lighting are American made.

·       Maine Seaside Treasures – located at 14 Main Street, is a new boutique on Main Street with a coastal theme, featuring decor, unique collections and crafts made by local artists.

Restaurants:

BOWA: Best of What’s Around – Located at 31 Elm Street - BOWA's meals are inspired by the seasons in Maine. Ingredients are seasonal and locally sourced. Dishes are inspired by many different cuisines and cultures.

Mixed Greens – Located on Main Street is a new take out restaurant offering handmade healthy food, salad bowls and more.

Taboo Taqueria - For taco and tequila lovers a new Mexican restaurant opened at 5 Country Inn Way called on May 5.

Ports of Italy Italian Restaurant and Ports Pizzeria - Located at 141 Commercial Street Rockport – is a welcomed upscale Italian restaurant with a casual pizzeria.

The Mill Nutrition – Located at 25 Mechanic Street Camden, offers healthy energy teas and shakes in Camden

New Art Gallery.  

·       TOPO Gallery -  Enjoy great art from young New England artists in Camden. We highly recommend you stroll through to see the art.

Blueberry Weekend. 

Maine’s first ever Wild Blueberry Weekend is scheduled for August 7-8, 2021 as a celebration of the state’s iconic fruit and the people behind it – the growers and processors. The weekend will revolve around an Eat. Drink. Experience. Stay tuned for more details

With lots to do in Camden, you don’t want to delay making a reservation at the Inn. The Captain Swift Inn is conveniently located near the downtown. After a fun day of perusing the shops and new restaurants, return to the Inn and enjoy a beverage in one of the many comfortable common areas, or in the privacy of your room. We look forward to welcoming you back to Camden Maine.

Fishing in MidCoast Maine

If you're vacationing in Camden, ME this summer, consider adding a fishing trip with a Master Maine Guide to your stay at the Captain Swift Inn. Camden, ME is a popular fishing destination due to its proximity to many lakes, ponds, and the Atlantic Ocean. When you embark on a fishing trip with a Master Maine Guide, you'll be able to soak up Maine's pristine outdoor scenery and create a lifetime of memories. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a novice, there’s a fishing hole for you.

Types of Fishing in Maine

The Midcoast Maine area is known for three types of fishing: pike fishing, brook trout fishing, and striper fishing.

Pike Fishing

Pike are also known as water wolves or freshwater sharks. With strong, long bodies and razor-sharp teeth, they are relentless predators in the water. They thrive in cold waters, making Maine's coastal and fresh waters ideal habitats for them. Pike fishing is best in early spring and fall.

Brook Trout Fishing

Wild brook trout populations are decreasing throughout the United States, but they are thriving in Maine. They are most prevalent in Maine's interior highlands due to cooler water temperatures and less competition with non-native fish species. The best months for trout fishing are May and June, late September, October, and November.

Striper Fishing

Striped Bass is Maine's most well-known saltwater fish, although they can also be found in freshwater. They prefer water temperatures between 55° F and 68° F. They don't like sunlight and will retreat to deeper waters in the middle of the day during the warm summer months. Striper fishing is best in the early morning or evening when the light is low since this is when the stripers are most active near the surface of the water.

Places to Fish in Maine

There are plenty of places to fish in Maine, but your private fishing tour will take you to Saint George River and Seven Tree Pond.

Saint George River

Set against a backdrop of mountains and flowing through several lakes and ponds, the Saint George River in Thomaston spans 225 square miles. It is well-stocked with bass and trout. The Saint George River is also a popular destination for kayakers and canoers.

Seven Tree Pond

The Seven Tree Pond in Union spans 528 acres. Its waters can get as deep as 45 feet. Like the Saint George River, Seven Tree Pond is known for its bass and trout populations. Pickerel and white perch are also abundant.

Book Your Fishing Trip through Captain Swift Inn

Our unique fishing excursion package can be added to any reservation at Captain Swift Inn with a minimum of a one-night stay. You'll fish from an 18' Alumacraft center console boat and learn all about Maine's geography, wildlife, and history from your Master Maine Guide.

The package includes a Captain Swift Inn water bottle, a twill cap, and sunscreen. Lunch, water, and soft drinks will be provided. Enjoy a plate of tortilla chips, guacamole, and salsa along with a selection of local IPAs upon your return.

Tours are available between June 4, 2021, and September 26, 2021.

Contact us today to make a reservation and book your private fishing tour.

Day Sails and Boat Trips in Camden Maine

 

Go Sailing on the Coast Of Maine 

The calm waters and brisk ocean breezes make for perfect sailing conditions in Penobscot Bay. Take a 2-hour tour of the Bay and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of the Maine coast and nearby islands. If you are planning a trip to the Coast of Maine, you should reserve your spot early, as the tours fill quickly. Here are a few of the best Camden, Maine sailing tours available. 

·  Schooner Surprise – Whether you are looking to join a tour group or charter the boat privately, this crew can meet your needs. The tours leave from Camden and sail through the Bay. Patrons enjoy spectacular views of the coast, lighthouses, wildlife and grand summer estates. They also offer sunset tours with live music, moonlight sails filled with romance and special tours to view the fireworks. Their tours sail seven days a week from the middle of May to the middle of October.  

·  Schooner Anjacaa – Run by the same captain as Schooner Surprise, this boat offers more intimate tours with fewer passengers. It takes on only six passengers each tour and offers their guests the most in luxury and comfort. This boat is built for speed. Passengers are whisked from one beautiful vista to another. They offer public tours four times a day, seven days a week, from June 15th to September 30th. From May 20th to June 14th and all of October they are available for private charters only. 

·  Schooner Olad and Cutter Owl – these two ships sail out of Camden and tour Penobscot Bay. They promise incredible views of the rocky coastline, wildlife, including seals and magnificent seabirds, stately mansions, other sailing vessels and lobster boats. They offer five tours a day from the middle of May to the Middle of October. 

·  Schooner Appledore – this tour boat, the largest day sailor in the harbor, offers wonderful views of the coastline, wildlife, islands and other vessels on the bay. The crew is young and lively. They offer three tours a day from June through October and have cocktails, wine, beer and soft drinks as well as light fare available for purchase on board. Another unique feature of the Appledore is that they allow friendly dogs onboard. 

·  Camden Harbor Cruises – for something a bit different, this tour offers its passengers a chance to haul up lobster traps and see what's inside. Of course, there are still magnificent views of the coastline, islands and the other wildlife to enjoy. They run tours seven days a week from the middle of May until the middle of October. 

No matter which tour you choose, start and finish your journey from the Captain Swift Inn. Located less than a half a mile from the harbor, the Captain Swift Inn Bed and Breakfast offers beautifully appointed rooms and suites, balconies, decks and our unique candlelight breakfasts. Close to so many fun and fascinating tourist destinations, let us be the base for your remarkable Midcoast Maine vacation. Contact us for more information about planning a great vacation with us. 

Golf Getaway in MidCoast Maine

 

Plan a Golf Getaway in MidCoast Maine this Spring, Summer & Fall. 

Stay at the Captain Swift Inn and enjoy these nearby golf courses. 

If you are daydreaming about rolling green hills and practicing your golf swing, consider planning a golf getaway in Midcoast Maine for this spring or summer.  Golf is a great getaway option because it is naturally a socially distanced activity. New England's golf courses offer beautiful ocean views paired with the seclusion that tall evergreens provide. Midcoast Maine offers a particularly special getaway with Camden charm combined with 3 great nearby public golf courses. 

Goose River Golf Course

This gorgeous green land was originally a dairy farm, but it was turned into a golf course in 1965. Goose River Golf Course feels like a hidden gem that is far away from civilization, but it is only a few minutes from downtown Camden. The 3,049-yard course consists of beautiful but challenging rolling hills surrounded by evergreen trees along the Goose River. The course rating is 67.8 and has 9 holes. Each round of golf at this course feels like a new challenge.  Goose River Golf Club invites you to "come play the Goose." Don’t feel like playing a whole round of golf? The practice range across the street is a favorite of locals and visitors. Only 1.8 miles from the Inn. 

Rockland Golf Course

Rockland Golf Course offers two unique courses: the Challenge Course and the Players Course. The Challenge Course is the longest par 54 course east of the Mississippi River. Its length and design will surprise you and challenge you. You can try to beat the course record, but they warn you that it is 4 under par. The Players Course (Executive Course) is meant for beginners or people who are looking for fun and laughs. Come practice your short game on this par 60 course. There is something for everyone in your group at Rockland Golf Course. Only 6.5 miles from the Inn. 

Samoset Resort Golf Course

Samoset is an award-winning golf course that is one of the most beautiful in New England. From 7 of the holes, you have a view of Penobscot Bay, while 14 of the holes offer a gorgeous view of the Atlantic Ocean. This 6,600-yard, par 71 golf course also offers private instruction, group lessons, and golf clinics. You can also practice your putting on their 10,000-square-foot putting green. Samoset’s Maine golf complex also features a clubhouse with a golf range, practice green, short game facility with bunkers, fully-stocked Pro Shop and the Clubhouse Grille restaurant as well as private and group instruction with PGA professionals. Only 7.9 miles from the Inn

Relax and Unwind at The Captain Swift Inn, a Camden Maine Inn

If you are seeking some relaxation with your adventure, the Captain Swift Inn is a great choice. Pamper yourself with an in-room massage. Relax by a fireplace with a good book or a board game. Sip a glass of local wine on the deck after a day of golf. 

You'll start your day with a candlelight three-course breakfast, choosing from up to 20 items from our First Course Menu to include homemade granola, freshly baked morning and yeast breads; local cheeses and charcuterie items, slowly cooked rolled oats; free range eggs; six different fresh berries and assorted yogurts.  Second course follows which is our plated fruit dish, and might be a Maine Blueberry Tart w/Lemon Creme' and our third courses alternates between a "sweet" (think Maine Maple Syrup) or savory entree. It's a one of a kind experience that is a perfect way to start your day before begin your golf course adventures.