Bucks Harbor

Marinas near Bucks Harbor

Introduction:

Bucks Harbor and the town of South Brooksville are situated on the western mouth of Eggemoggin reach. Bucks Harbor is a favored choice among many cruisers due to its scenic views, good holding ground, and the relative protection afforded by Harbor Island.

Bucks Harbor is located off Eggemoggin Reach and Penobscot Bay east of Cape Rosier and north of Little Deer Isle. In terms of geography, Bucks Harbor is about 15 miles northwest of Vinalhaven Island and 16 miles west of Mound Desert Island.

The image above is a view from the south looking north over Bucks Harbor and Harbor Island--the small bushy piece of land in the center of the harbor. The heavily forest strecth of land on the right-hand (east) side of the image is Garys Point, while Condon Point is directly across the Bucks Harbor opening to the left (west).

There are two marine facilities in Bucks Harbor (Bucks Harbor Yacht Club and Bucks Harbor Marine) and while neither of them have transient dock space, both maintain portions of the mooring field. Moorings are generally rented on an overnight basis for a daily fee. Additionally, Bucks Harbor Marine sells both gas and diesel fuel.

Navigating the Water:

Use NOAA Charts 13309 and 13305.

Bucks Harbor is reached via an approach from the east (Eggemoggin Reach) or the south (Penobscot Bay). Both routes are reliable; the one you use just depends on where you are coming from.

[b]Southern Approach:[/b]

From upper Penobscot Bay, first set a course to intercept red and white buoy “ER,” which is located at an approximate position of N44 17.996 W68 46.469. Once you have successfully navigate your way to red and white buoy “ER,” set a new course of about 071 degrees magnetic and follow it for about eight-tenths of a mile to green can buoy “31.”

Next, chart a new course of approximately 074 degrees magnetic for about six-tenths of a mile to intercept green can buoy “27.” The last step in the southerly approach to Bucks Harbor is to head to the north-northeast on a course of about 044 degrees magnetic for 1.5 miles; this will bring you to the opening of Bucks Harbor where it meets Eggemoggin Reach.

[b]Eastern Approach:[/b]

The eastern approach is quite simple. First set a course to intercept red and white buoy “EG,” which is located at an approximate position of N44 19.217 W68 44.565. From here, simply head north for about seven-tenths of a mile to the Bucks Harbor opening.

Local Notices to Mariners:

Local Notices to Mariners are available online from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Transportation:

There is no taxi or bus service available in town, however taxi service can sometime be arranged from the Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB), which is conveniently located half way between the City of Ellsworth and the Town of Bar Harbor.

Knox County Airport in Rockland (to the west) is also another regional airport with charter air service, but is a fairly long drive (closer by water).

Helpful Links:

Oakland House Guide to Local Attractions and Things to do.