Cabbage Island
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Cabbage Island

4.8
·36 reviews·Boothbay, United States

Experience an authentic Maine clambake on a charming island, complete with a scenic boat ride and delicious seafood.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Warm weather, peak season

CrowdHigh
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Cabbage Island

Cabbage Island

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Warm weather, peak season

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience an authentic Maine clambake on a charming island, complete with a scenic boat ride and delicious seafood.

4.8
(36 reviews)

"Our trip to Cabbage Island and the boat ride there and back were awesome!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tickets Early!

Cabbage Island Clambakes are popular; book your tickets in advance to guarantee a spot.

🚢 Enjoy the Boat Ride

The ferry trip is part of the fun! Relax and take in the coastal views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cabbage Island Clambake

The Cabbage Island Clambake

Cabbage Island

Savor fresh lobster, clams, and blueberry cake steamed over an open fire on a picturesque island.

Instagram
Scenic Boat Ride

Scenic Boat Ride

Boothbay Harbor to Cabbage Island

Enjoy a guided boat tour with beautiful ocean views on your way to the island.

Instagram
Island Ambiance

Island Ambiance

Cabbage Island

Experience the charm of a quiet, beautiful island setting perfect for a relaxed meal.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Cabbage Island Clambake in Advance

Cabbage Island Clambakes are incredibly popular, especially during peak season. Booking your spot ahead of time is crucial to avoid disappointment. Many visitors recommend securing tickets a few weeks in advance, particularly if you're visiting Boothbay Harbor in the summer. Reddit

Embrace the Boat Ride Experience

The journey to Cabbage Island is an integral part of the experience, often described as a guided tour with stunning coastal views. While some find the boats can get crowded, the scenic ride and the anticipation of the clambake make it a memorable part of your visit. Instagram

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm weather, peak season
Crowd
High
When
Late Spring/Early Fall
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cabbage Island was definitely a must in Maine, what’s next? #maine #lobster #boat #thingstodo
the.traveling.tastebuds
171 likes • 8.1K views

🎯 Book Tickets Early!

Cabbage Island Clambakes are popular; book your tickets in advance to guarantee a spot. InstagramReddit

🚢 Enjoy the Boat Ride

The ferry trip is part of the fun! Relax and take in the coastal views. Instagram

🦞An afternoon on Cabbage Island for a Cabbage Island Clambake. We’ve been wanting to do this for years and finally, since we live here now(!), made it happen. For anyone visiting the Boothbay region in the summer, this is a must do. 🛥️The boat ride over to the island was a bit crowded for my liking, but the boat captain gave us an incredible tour of the harbor and surrounding islands, so all was...
jennyshearawn
52 likes • 1.5K views
Cabbage Island Clambake. Yes it is as fun as it sounds. While in Boothbay harbor, Maine head over to the yellow ticket booth at pier 6. From there you will take a 1 hour guided boat ride over to Cabbage Island. Once you arrive at the island find a place to sit and watch the crew prepare your meal steamed over an open fire. Come hungry because you get more than enough food. fish chowder, 2 lobsters...
reneerosedesign
19 likes • 1.3K views

🍽️ Come Hungry!

The clambake is generous! You'll get plenty of delicious lobster, clams, and blueberry cake. Instagram+1

☀️ Dress for the Weather

Maine weather can change. Layers are recommended for the boat ride and island. :cloud:

🦀 Cabbage Island adventures with our favourite first mate, Richie! 🌊 Even MORE adventures are on the horizon, so keep watching! Are you a boat lover? Comment “BOAT” below! 👇🚤 . . . #BoatingAdventures #CabbageIsland #SaturnaIsland #TumboChannel #BoatingLife #SailingFun #IslandHopping #RichieViera #MississaugaToSea #OceanExploration #NauticalVibes #SunAndSea #ExploreBC #Waterways #BoatLife #SeaAd...
mcleanrealestategroup_
9 likes • 434 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets Early!

Cabbage Island Clambakes are popular; book your tickets in advance to guarantee a spot. InstagramReddit

🚢 Enjoy the Boat Ride

The ferry trip is part of the fun! Relax and take in the coastal views. Instagram

🍽️ Come Hungry!

The clambake is generous! You'll get plenty of delicious lobster, clams, and blueberry cake. Instagram+1

☀️ Dress for the Weather

Maine weather can change. Layers are recommended for the boat ride and island. :cloud:

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera for stunning ocean vistas and the clambake preparation. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(36 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Cabbage Island Clambake, praising the delicious, fresh seafood and the unique experience of dining on a picturesque island. The scenic boat ride is a significant highlight, and the friendly atmosphere, often enhanced by the owner's personal touch, makes it a truly memorable outing. While the boats can get crowded, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it a 'must-do' in Maine.

"Our trip to Cabbage Island and the boat ride there and back were awesome! We happened to be there during the final days of Windjammer week in Boothbay Harbor and that made the trip even more special! A great, fun day with good food and service and beautiful views everywhere you look!"

Steven D Copertino

"The trip on the boat to the island was almost as fun as the clambake. But not quite...the clams were fresh and tasty, and the lobster was great, and cooked just right! Blueberry cake was to die for!!"

Debra Hernandez

"Always an amazing experience. Delicious lobster. Outstanding host and staff."

Stephen Rogalin

What People Like

Delicious fresh seafood
Scenic boat ride
Unique island clambake

What People Dislike

Crowded boats

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access to Cabbage Island is via a scenic boat ride departing from Boothbay Harbor. You'll typically find a yellow ticket booth at Pier 6 where you can purchase tickets for the ferry and clambake experience. The boat ride itself is part of the adventure, offering beautiful coastal views. Instagram+1

The boat ride can get crowded, especially during peak summer season. Some visitors have noted it can be a bit crowded for their liking, but the experience is generally considered enjoyable and scenic. Instagram

The boat ride to Cabbage Island is approximately one hour each way, serving as a guided tour of the surrounding waters. Instagram

No, Cabbage Island is only accessible by boat. You'll need to take the designated ferry service from Boothbay Harbor. Instagram

While Cabbage Island is a popular choice for its clambake, other islands might be accessible via ferry services from the Boothbay region, offering different experiences like biking or walking. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for the Cabbage Island Clambake typically include the boat ride and the full clambake meal. Prices may have increased from previous years, so it's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current pricing. Instagram

Yes, booking your Cabbage Island Clambake tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during the busy summer months. This popular experience often sells out. InstagramReddit

A ticket generally covers the round-trip boat ride to the island, the clambake meal (which includes lobster, clams, and other accompaniments), and their famous blueberry cake. Instagram

Cabbage Island typically operates during the summer season, offering lunch and dinner clambakes. It's advisable to check their specific operating days and times, as they can vary. Instagram

While it's best to book in advance, you might be able to purchase tickets on the day if availability permits. However, due to high demand, this is not guaranteed. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Cabbage Island Clambake features fresh, locally sourced seafood, including delicious lobster and clams steamed over an open fire. You'll also enjoy baked onions and their renowned blueberry cake. Instagram+1

Reviews consistently praise the food at Cabbage Island, highlighting the freshness and perfect cooking of the lobster and clams. The blueberry cake is also a standout favorite. Reddit

The traditional Cabbage Island Clambake focuses on seafood. It's recommended to contact them directly in advance to inquire about any potential vegetarian or vegan accommodations. Instagram

You can expect a generous amount of food. The clambake is known for being plentiful, so come hungry! Instagram

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted as the experience includes a full meal. It's best to confirm this policy when booking. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Cabbage Island offers fantastic photo opportunities, from the scenic boat ride with coastal views to the unique experience of watching your meal being prepared over an open fire. The island itself provides a beautiful, rustic backdrop. Instagram+1

Yes, the boat ride offers great chances to capture stunning ocean vistas and the coastline. Be mindful of the sea spray and secure your camera. Instagram

Absolutely! Watching the lobsters and clams being steamed over the open fire is a highlight and makes for excellent photos. Reddit

A versatile camera that can handle varying light conditions is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for capturing details from the boat. A waterproof case for your phone or camera is a good idea. :iphone:

Generally, photography is welcomed and encouraged. However, always be respectful of other guests and staff. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cabbage Island offers a fun and engaging experience for families. The boat ride is an adventure in itself, with kids often fascinated by being on the water and spotting sights along the coast. Instagram The clambake provides a chance for children to try fresh seafood in a relaxed, outdoor setting. The communal nature of the meal and the unique cooking method can be very interesting for younger visitors. Reddit

It's a good idea to pack layers for the boat ride, as it can be breezy. While the focus is on seafood, the blueberry cake is usually a hit with kids. The island setting is generally safe and provides a good backdrop for family photos. Consider booking tickets in advance to ensure your family gets a spot. Instagram

💑 Couples

For couples, Cabbage Island offers a romantic and uniquely Maine experience. The scenic boat ride provides a beautiful backdrop for conversation and shared views of the coastline. Instagram Arriving on the island for a traditional clambake, with the smell of the sea and the open-fire cooking, creates an intimate and memorable dining atmosphere. Reddit

Sharing a delicious lobster and clam feast, followed by a sweet blueberry cake, can be a perfect way to enjoy a special meal together. The rustic island setting adds to the charm, making it a delightful escape from the everyday. It's an ideal spot for a memorable date or anniversary celebration. Instagram

🍽️ Foodies

Food enthusiasts will find Cabbage Island a must-visit for its authentic Maine clambake. The focus is on fresh, high-quality seafood, expertly steamed over an open fire, ensuring a pure, unadulterated taste of the ocean. Instagram The opportunity to witness the cooking process firsthand adds a unique dimension to the dining experience. Reddit

Beyond the lobster and clams, the baked onions are surprisingly sweet and tender, and the blueberry cake is consistently praised as a delightful finish. This is a chance to savor traditional coastal cuisine prepared with care and served in a picturesque island setting, making it a culinary adventure. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Cabbage Island Clambake Experience

The Cabbage Island Clambake is more than just a meal; it's a quintessential Maine coastal experience. Visitors are transported by boat to a charming island where they witness the traditional preparation of a clambake. This involves steaming fresh lobster, clams, mussels, and often corn on the cob over an open fire right on the beach. The aroma and the sight of the food cooking in this rustic setting are captivating. InstagramReddit

Beyond the main course, the meal typically includes delicious baked onions that melt in your mouth and a famous, must-try blueberry cake for dessert. The entire process is designed to be engaging and communal, with staff often interacting with guests. The owner's personal touch and welcoming demeanor are frequently mentioned, making everyone feel like family. Reddit

This experience is highly recommended for anyone visiting the Boothbay region, offering a taste of authentic Maine culture and cuisine in a beautiful island setting. It's a perfect blend of scenic travel, delicious food, and a unique, memorable atmosphere. Instagram+1

Navigating the Boat Ride

The boat ride to Cabbage Island is an essential part of the overall experience, often described as a highlight in itself. These aren't just ferries; they are guided tours that offer stunning panoramic views of the Maine coastline, islands, and potentially local marine life. The journey provides a fantastic opportunity to capture beautiful photographs and soak in the maritime atmosphere. Instagram+1

While the boats can become crowded, especially during peak tourist season, the scenic beauty and the informative commentary from the captain often make up for any perceived congestion. Visitors are advised to be prepared for potential sea spray and to dress in layers, as conditions on the water can be cooler than on land. Instagram

This boat trip sets the stage for the island adventure, building anticipation for the clambake and offering a relaxing, picturesque prelude to the culinary delights that await. It's a chance to truly appreciate the rugged beauty of the Boothbay Harbor area from a unique perspective. Instagram

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