Safe Harbor Great Island

82 Reviews
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419 Harpswell Islands Rd.
Harpswell, ME 04079
43° 49' 48.76'', -69° 54' 54.54''
2077291639
VHF Ch. 9
$3.75/ft
shmarinas.com
Cundy's Harbor
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
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Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
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Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
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Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island
Safe Harbor Great Island

Awards


Boaters Choice Elite Fleet 2019Boaters Choice 2020Boaters Choice Elite Fleet 2021Boaters Choice Elite Fleet 2022Boaters Choice Elite Fleet 2023

About


FRIENDLY FACES – SCENIC BEAUTY – EXPERT TECHNICIANS - EATERY

Safe Harbor Great Island is located just 40 minutes north of Portland, in a naturally protected and beautiful cove. We have a happy and welcoming operation. Our modern boat yard facilities include a custom post and beam building housing offices, a ship’s store, and guest amenities. Iris Eats, is an excellent eatery located onsite! While staying in our marina, you also gain access to our experienced riggers, and expert mechanical and electrical service techs to keep you up and running.

Safe Harbor Great Island cares for over 200 boats in the winter and keeps over 100 in the marina for the summer. We offer “shipyard” capabilities with the personal and friendly service. Over half of our customers come to us from other New England states. A parade of boats makes the 120-mile trip between Safe Harbor Great Island and the Cape Cod Canal every spring and fall. We paint, repair, repower, and refit dozens of sailboats and motor yachts annually. We have extensive indoor storage facilities which allows our crew to function efficiently, year-round.

Transient slips and moorings are available; for reservations, please call, email, or book via the Dockwa app. Waste pump-out equipment is provided on a no-charge basis. Safe Harbor Great Island monitors VHF channel 09, and uses 10 as a working channel.

Safe Harbor Great Island-AT-A-GLANCE:

Picturesque, peaceful, natural hurricane hole

57 marina slips – 40 moorings

Vessels up to 70’ LOA, 8.5’ draft

ValvTect fuel, block and cubed ice, free pump-out and water

Free WiFi, customer lounge, large, clean restrooms and tiled showers, laundry facilities

Cafe onsite - Iris Eats serves savory breakfast & "cozy gourmet" sandwiches, sweets, soups, and gorgeous charcuterie boards, featuring local ingredients. For current hours and more information about catering & provisioning, call Elyse at (207) 406-2052, or visit iriseatsmaine.com.

Friday Night Music Series, there are several opportunities to catch live entertainment at the water's edge throughout the summer season.

Give us a call (207) 729-1639 or email our Marina Manager at [email protected].

Berth Capacity


Slips:57
Moorings:2
Linear Docks:377 Feet
Winter Storage:220

Approach


Easy approach with very little current. Wind is the strongest element in the cove. For best control, avoid running with the wind; work against it whenever possible and use it to your advantage.
Minimum Approach Depth:9.0 Feet
Minimum Channel Depth:12.0 Feet

Services & Amenities

Last Updated: Jan 23, 2024

Fuel Dock:Yes
Gas:Yes
Diesel:Yes
Dockage:Yes
Moorings:Yes
Water Hookup:Yes
Service & Maintenance:Yes
Dinghy Dock:Yes
Wi-Fi:Yes
Pump-out:Yes
Restrooms:Yes
Showers:Yes
Laundry:Yes
Trash:Yes
Ice:Yes
Boat Ramp:Yes
Captains Lounge:Yes
Groceries:Within 5 Miles
Medical Facility:Within 5 Miles
Pharmacy:Within 5 Miles
Car Rentals:Within 5 Miles
Restaurants:Yes
Beach:Within 5 Miles
Pet Friendly:Yes
Golf:Within 5 Miles
Tennis:Within 5 Miles
Ship Store:Yes
Max. Vessel LOA:70.0 Feet
Max. Slip Length:75.0 Feet
Max. Slip Width:20.0 Feet
Floating Docks:Yes
Oil Disposal:Yes
Repair Crane:Yes
Engine Service:Yes
Propeller Service:Yes
Dry Stack:Yes
Land Storage:Yes
Travel Lift:Yes
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Verified

Great facility, wonderful crew. Iris Eats is a fine!!! Only wish they had longer hours!

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Verified

Kristen DM and Steve SM are outstanding, as is the help and facility. Great and protected spot.

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Verified

We arrived under tow - impeller issue. At 8 the next morning a tech was on board. He efficiently and professionally fixed the impeller and a couple of other problems. The staff is professional and the facility is impeccably clean and tidy. It’s a 10 out of 10.

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Verified

Great staff. Great Location,

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Verified

Beautiful location. Marina Manager Kristin and staff are responsive, attentive and accommodating. The same goes for the service side. They do what they say, and follow up to ensure things were done correctly. The facility is clean, the docks are in excellent shape, and the staff terrific. Clearly a well run marina and service operation. Looking forward to returning.

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Verified

Nice facility, just about everything is new, staff couldn’t be more helpful!

Marina Response:
We are glad to know you enjoyed your stay and our facilities.
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Verified

Great facility and great folks.

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Verified

Fantastic team, great facility. Needed service on our generator - Scott met us fast, 10 minutes upon docking! Got us up and running. IrisEats cafe was great too! Will be back!

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Verified

Great; nice friendly folks.

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Verified

This yard is an awesome yard and a great model for others to aspire to. From a very clean and organized facility to people who are friendly and happy at Great Island it certainly is refreshing to see. We enjoyed walking the docks, the laundry and the Iris Eats. The members of Great Harbor, the staff and technicians all present a very positive and friendly welcoming tone. Thank you! Barry and Suzanne

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Verified

Great job overall. The dock crew was exceptional in every way. Nice quiet evening.

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Verified

Great mooring field. Dock staff very helpful. Nice facilities. Plan to return soon.

Marina Response:
Thank you for bringing your cruising group to Safe Harbor Great Island. It appears all enjoyed the evening events at Iris Eats. Glad you took advantage of this option. See you next year.
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Verified

Very Very quite, 6 + miles to town or provisions, On site restaurant open breakfast and only, closed Monday & Tuesday WiFi and Cell sketchy Newer Dock, Great staff. Exceptionally clean

Marina Response:
Thank you for sharing your experience. We expect Wi-Fi boosters to be installed on our new dock system in time for the 2024 boating season. Iris Eats is, indeed, closed on Mondays & Tuesdays. On Wednesday, Iris Eats is open 11:30 - 7:00 for lunch and dinner (and live music on the deck when weather permits). Thursday - Saturday, Iris Eats is open 8:00 -3:00 for breakfast and lunch. And on Sunday, Iris Eats is open 8:00 - 2:00 for breakfast/brunch and lunch. Be sure to check-in re: updates as these do change seasonally. Hope we will see you again!
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Helpful staff, nice facility.

Marina Response:
Thank you!
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Verified

Awesome beautiful spot very helpful staff. Great facilities

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Verified

I was here on a club cruise. I was so impressed by the highest level of service we received. Young dock staff couldn’t be more helpful, friendly, and professional. Dennis, their small engine mechanic was brilliant in helping me solve dinghy outboard problem. Getting fuel and water was easy. Showers clean. There is a small restaurant on the property called Iris Eats which is excellent. Highly recommend this marina.

Marina Response:
Wonderful. We are very proud of our young dock staff, and of Dennis, our master technician, too. We are so pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay. See you again!
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Verified

Just a beautiful place to spend a night. Or a season

Marina Response:
We think so; glad you agree!
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Verified

This is a really squared away and very knowledgeable operation.

Marina Response:
Thank you!
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Verified

Thanks to the crew for a very enjoyable stay in Harpswell. Your laundry was "exceptional", folks were very helpful in many ways, the docks are really clean, and your office is beautiful. And our emergency need for a Verizon store was met with a short taxi ride and a stop at Hannaford's for groceries. Highly recommend.

Marina Response:
Fantastic. Glad we could serve as a one-stop-shop port of call on your cruise. See you next visit.
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Verified

Great service. Beautiful marina.

Marina Response:
Thank you. We hope to see you again soon.
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Verified

Excellent, well run facility with a great staff.

Marina Response:
Thank you!
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Verified

Quiet location, thank goodness the cafe was open (until 3 pm) when we arrived. There is nothing else to walk to. Recent investment in the docks and amenities are beautiful.

Marina Response:
Glad you got to experience Iris Eats while visiting Safe Harbor Great Island. Iris East is currently open Wednesdays, 11:30 - 7, for burgers & bowls (as well as live music on the deck, weather permitting). On Thursday, Friday and Saturday you will find breakfast & lunch offerings from 8 - 3. And on Sunday, the Iris team serves from 8 - 2:00. Hope these hours will synch up with your next visit. Hope to see you again.
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Verified

I have yet to find a more welcoming yard. Great people, great service, well maintained facility and nice protected safe harbor

Marina Response:
Thank you! We are happy you to hear that you feel the warmth, kindness, and skill of our team.
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Verified

We can understand why friends in Marblehead over-winter their boat here. Great facilities and the dock hands were wonderfully responsive in helping us to squeeze into the fuel dock. Well protected if the weather kicks up.

Marina Response:
Thank you for your observations. We look forward to your next visit.
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Verified

Wonderfully accommodating for a last minute stop. Do not miss visiting Iris Eats when at Great Island!

Marina Response:
Thank you! Orrs Cove and Quahog Bay are among Maine's best kept secrets. So glad you visited us! Hope you'll come again.
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This is an exceptional marina and it's absolutely top of class. The facilities are in top notch condition but by far the best part of Great Island is the team. Steve Rowe has high standards for people and work. They are personable, knowledgeable and can handle any project you can conjure up. Pricing is very fair, particularly considering the high quality of work. I appreciate this high level of professionalism and teamwork. It is hard to achieve and harder to maintain. Thank you Steve and your team.

Marina Response:
Thank you for sharing. Our team is, indeed, our most valuable asset. We are pleased to know their efforts are making a difference in the lives of boaters like you. We appreciate your confidence. Keep the projects coming. Our techs value challenging work and opportunities to collaborate. Hope to see you in the 2023 season!
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Verified

Adequate. After a season of cruising from Maine to Canada (and back) and feeling like honored guests at so many marinas, it’s disappointing to see personable and warm family operated marinas slowly being replaced by cold corporate entities where visitors (aka customers) are treated as transactions. Even a full time seasonal slip holder here spoke of the constant vigilance needed to protect themselves from being overcharged; always on the defensive. With the exception of the dock master (?) Christine who was very friendly and helpful, the other office staff had no interest in helping us. One of them actually wore over-the-ear headphones at the front desk while sitting at the computer, as if not wanting to be interrupted by the people responsible for his income (aka the customers). Courtesy is easy, cheap and a vanishing asset in corporate operations. It’s too bad. It would have taken so little to leave such a different impression. What a shame. *Update* After messaging and emailing Kristin, the marina manager, I feel like our concerns were heard, respected and are being addressed. Consequently, I’ve upgraded the rating. The point of this review was to correct a problem, not just complain about it. I’m happy to give them the benefit of the doubt.

Marina Response:
We are sorry to learn of your disappointment. It seems you had quite a unique experience. As a 5-star facility, we take note of all reviews, particularly ones that seems out of synch with the norm. This is a good reminder for us to more clearly delineate our customer service area and make sure all our team members are ready to assist, even when caught in an unexpected support role. Visiting during the shoulder season, when summer staff is limited, should not lead boaters to inadvertently find themselves at the "back of the house" in a department that is not typically part of our "front of the house" experience. We appreciate your consideration - and benefit of the doubt. Thank you for sharing your experience. We are always looking for ways we can grow and improve.
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Verified

Newly upgraded and growing. We were going to anchor near Snow Island, but no easy dinghy shore access for our dog. And low temps would require the genset. We opted to stay here. Dock crew were amazing and friendly. Gourmet Sandwich shop had delicious selections, but closed at 3PM. We arrived at 2:30PM and they were kind enough to stay open until we finished. Narrow approach requires you to split their mooring field. NO-Wake buoy marks the center channel. Will stay again.

Marina Response:
It was a pleasure hosting you. We are so glad you took time to visit us during your tour of Maine. We hope to see you on your next trip north.
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Verified

Well maintained facility. Helpful staff. A very pleasant experience here. We hope to return in 2023. Many thanks.

Marina Response:
So glad you enjoyed your stay. We look forward to your next visit.
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Verified

Great staff, clean yard. Great yard for repairs.

Marina Response:
So glad you enjoyed your stay! We hope to see you again.
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Verified

Great location, friendly and helpful staff!!

Marina Response:
We enjoyed hosting you during your stay. Glad you discovered SHGI. See you on your next visit!
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Verified

The staff was amazing-all knowledgeable and very helpful! The docks are all new with beautiful wood. Only downfall was the early morning work being done on the new building, but that is part of updating the facility I suppose. Gorgeous setting, can’t go wrong staying here!

Marina Response:
Fortunately, the construction noise is temporary. Come back again to see the new facility and enjoy the normal peace and quiet of Orr's Cove. Thanks for visiting!
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We can't say enough good things about SHGI. Dockwa confirmation was very prompt. Mooring location had plenty of swing room for our Duffy. Staff was very welcoming and professional. Iris Eats has wonderful gourmet breakfast and lunch offerings (check days/hours). There has been a considerable investment in SHGI - brand new docks and buildings and a heavy travel lift structure moving towards completion. While cruising Casco Bay we enjoyed our stay so much we returned when the SW winds kicked up for another stay on our fav mooring. Even though SW winds blow straight into Orrs Cove the dynamics of this snug harbor keep the boat directly into the wind (no appreciable ebb current) and wave action very low allowing for a comfortable stay on the pennant. Diesel was readily available and fairly priced. The approach up the bay is beautiful. Thank you SHGI team.

Marina Response:
Your thorough review is appreciated. So glad you discovered us and that you enjoyed your stay. There is nothing better than a summer sea breeze on Orrs Cove. We hope to see you again next season!
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Second time here. Left our boat to be painted. Everyone here is top notch especially the marina manager. Wide docks, good power and protected cove.

Marina Response:
Sometimes a transient visit while cruising leads to a yacht service relationship. So glad you kept Great Island on your radar over the years, and returned for a paint job! We look forward to continuing the friendship.
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Awesome marina! Great staff and location. Thanks for the experience.

Marina Response:
Thank you for taking time to enjoy our corner of the bay. Come again!
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This past May we completed America's Great Loop, and we were looking forward to spending the summer back here in Maine, which was home to us for many decades. On The Loop, we experienced a wide variety of marinas and boat yards, and this 5-week "HQ" we chose here in Maine turned out to match up and even overcome the best of any of them. First, its former name was Great Harbor Boatyard. So, its genesis is a full service boat yard, with lots of indoor and outdoor storage, and a seasoned well-run Service Department from our direct experience. e.g. We had a full preventative maintenance regimen done to our genset, and this crew handled it all very well, including a heat exchanger rehab, making it look like NEW. There is a large ramp that we saw (with the help of Maine's tides) could accommodate any draft vessel, and a crane to handle any size mast. However this boat yard is now completing the installation of a brand new travel lift, which will make the Service Department less dependent upon the tide clock. As the other reviews point out, this is also a very polished marina operation. Nice new hardwood docks were installed this spring that should last for decades, BBQ grills are found up on a deck overlooking the dock system with chairs and tables. The rest rooms and showers are very clean and appear to be new. There is a nice 'business center' in the post & beam office building with cathedral ceilings. The WiFi Internet there is very good, and it has been very good out here on the docks as well. This gave my [full bars] Verizon data plan a welcomed break for the month we were here. (FYI: Our other data plan, T-Mobile is non-existent here.) Geographically we are 3-hour [slow] trawler ride from either Boothbay Harbor to the east, and Portland to the west. So, we took in Windjammer Days in Boothbay; there are also the famed Harpswell Lobster Boat Races to take in. Lots to see by water. Kristen and her staff are just authentically interested in making everyone satisfied with their total experience... "Being there for you on VHF-09" during normal business hours... catching lines often bring us down our packages; this is a place we will certainly come back to. They have moorings too, and plenty of room at the docks for dinghies. While I don't *think* they have "launch service" per se, I'm sure these guys would shuttle us in in a pinch if we asked. The customers / dock mates are fun and friendly bunch too. Ashore: Bowdoin College and the Maine State Music Theatre is a short drive away, as is a full range of fine restaurants, as is typically found in good college towns. German, Indian, Italian, just about any type of food one could imagine can be found here (we know cuz we used to be locals!). Heck, I'm sure you could even find some seafood and Maine Lobster if you looked around hard enough! Two miles away, the small local seafood market, Gurnet Trading Company, had Maine Lobsters for $4/pound while we were here (July-Aug 2022). When I asked for oysters, they asked me which local island's oysters I prefer; fortunately, they helped me make my choice! Uber, Lift, InstaCart, all work here. It is a 5 mile ride to "Cooks Corner" shopping area with just about everything you can imagine. Big box groceries, WalMart, Lowes, etc. Johnson's Sporting Goods will fill your SCUBA tanks while you wait; they are a fully stocked fishing and dive shop. (They can fill your odd propane tanks too... they are not just a tank-exchange type place). Less than a mile past Cooks Corner, you will find an excellent [independent] Midcoast Marine Supply, that will have everything you need for supplies, F/G repair projects or improvements. They keep all the local commercial fishermen going for their needs too. No BS: SHGI is a fine gemstone that is set into a perfect Midcoast Region which has some of the best cruising / boating in the world. PS: Great Island is a lot easier to spell and pronounce than Sebascodegan Island, which is how it appears on NOAA charts. <grin>

Marina Response:
Wow! Thank you for sharing your experience is such great detail. We expect other cruisers will find your notes very useful. Glad you enjoyed your stay - and took full advantage of the surroundings.
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Verified

This marina sets a very high bar for excellence. Kristin, the marina manager communicated the docking details of our stay which is always helpful when arriving at a new location. She also stopped by the boat upon arrival to make sure we were settled. Most importantly, she coordinated a visit from the service manager on Friday before 4th of July weekend to troubleshoot an issue with our engine. We couldn't have asked for better treatment. The restrooms and showers are very nice. Their washer/dryer are brand new and use an honor system for paying which eliminates the need to hunt down quarters. Also, the docks are brand new teak. Beautiful! Don't miss the opportunity to eat at Iris'. It's open for breakfast and lunch (until 3pm). She also sells beer and wine. The only challenge is getting provisions from the grocery store. We cycled 6 miles to Hannaford but the road didn't have a good shoulder and the cars drive very fast. Overall, this is a wonderful place for transients.

Marina Response:
Thank you for your review. You will be glad to know the road has just been newly paved. The shoulder is a better, but the cars still move at pace. We were happy to help you along on your cruise, and to host you during your visit. Hope to see you next season!
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Verified

This was one of the most impressive marina/boatyards we have stayed in. The staff and facilities were great. The restaurant on site, Iris’s Eats , served delectable “comfy gourmet” breakfasts and lunches. Definitely would stay here again.

Marina Response:
Thank you for sharing your experience. We hope to see you again!
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As a delivery captain, I pass through dozens of marinas in a year and Great Island is unquestionably the most professional, accommodating, and welcoming of any I know on the east coast. The idea that the customer comes first is institutionally embedded in every employee and shines clearly. In an era where standard seem to be plummeting at an unsustainable rate, Great Island is one of the few holding onto high levels of traditional workmanship coupled with the benefits of modern technology. It’s a rare find in the marine industry of today to find a place where a boatyard truly has your best interest at heart.

Marina Response:
Wow. Thank you for your kind words. We are so pleased that our marina/boat yard culture shines through. It is our pleasure to serve you whenever you visit Great Island. Thank you for sharing your experience.
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Safe Harbor Great Island As we enter our 15th season of boating on the beautiful coast of Maine we finally have found a place that offers it all. A lovely and serene location with an entire fleet of workers that don’t disappoint. From the desk assistance, management, mechanics and to the dock hands everyone is there to assist you and make you feel safe to prepare you to cruise the waters and welcome you back from your return trip. Any guests we have entertained have always commented on how magical it was to come to Safe Harbor. It also helps so much to have the facilities they offer and a Gourmet Shop to help you provision. We can’t thank Kristin and Annika enough for monitoring us and our slip when we are away and Graham and his staff for keeping us afloat. We should have moved here years ago. Cheers to Safe Harbor and thank you all. Soulmate

Marina Response:
We are so pleased that you have discovered the magic and beauty of Orrs Cove and that you have decided to make Safe Harbor Great Island your home port and service center. We hope you will continue to take advantage of the expanding gourmet breakfast, lunch, and provisioning services onsite. Online ordering is now an option as well - so you are able to order ahead and pick up on the go - or have your order delivered dockside to your boat. Cheers!
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I almost don't want to say too many great things about Safe Harbor Great Island because I'd be more than happy to keep it a secret !!! Love to have it stay as she is...beautiful, quiet, peaceful, professional...tucked away in a quintessential Maine surround !!! ...so this marine is a perfect stopover or destination if one is requiring such and more than that it offers the FINEST service or refits at a FAIR price in a spectacular setting with the bonus of AWESOME people who really do care a lot about you and your boating experience...if you stop over once or ask them to service your vessel, you'll be back for sure ! thanks for all the great everything SHGI !!!

Marina Response:
We are glad you think this secret is worth sharing. Thank you for your feedback. We promise to be mindful and not to let the marina/boat yard culture change as the business grows. It is our intention to deliver the same professional, friendly service you have come to expect.
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Safe Harbor Great Island is special marina. It combines a beautiful, well protected location with top class facilities, friendly professional staff and an experienced maintenance crew. As fairly new cruisers, we learned a tremendous amount from both the staff and other long-term seasonal boaters. Thank you all for patiently answering our many questions!

Marina Response:
It is our pleasure. Thank you for your review. Welcome aboard! We are glad you have joined our fleet.
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FRIENDLY FACES – SCENIC BEAUTY – EXPERT TECHNICIANS - EXCEPTIONAL EATERY This pretty much sums up our experience this summer. Super organized staff, great network of service providers and technicians. We have a deep draft and found it easy to come in and out all summer. This marina has great facilities if you are staying on your boat for a long weekend. Everyone is always eager to help and even gave us local spots to eat and sight see. The new cafe, Iris Eats, has just opened but helped me provision for our six day return South. Her food was incredible! We plan to return in 2022. There is sampling nothing they could improve and perfect in every way.

Marina Response:
Wonderful. We are pleased that you have found your Membership here to be such a great benefit to your boating experience. We certainly enjoy providing you with yacht and concierge services when you are in Maine and we are glad to hear you will be back in 2022.
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Safe Harbors Great Island is in a league of their own. Both power and sailboat owners with the highest standard come to the Great Island team for top of the line maintanance and service. Great Island handles large projects and single work items with an standard of excellence that is unmatched in New England. I have been a customer for 10 years and cannot say enough about Great Island. All you need to do is look at the boats that make Great Island their homeport to see quality of this yard and their customers. Look no further.

Marina Response:
Thank you for you feedback. We appreciate your high standards and thrive on the technically challenging projects you bring to us. It is our pleasure to support you in your use and enjoyment of your boats, and to assist you and your crew in meeting your sailing/cruising goals. We appreciates that boaters of your caliber seek us out and place such value on the capabilities of our team.
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Safe Harbor Great Island is, and always has been, truly a 5 star boatyard. We originally kept our first cruising sailboat at GIBY from 2011 until 2019 and now we have once again moved our second cruising sailboat to now Safe Harbor Great Island in 2021. The well kept and appointed boatyard is located in a very attractive and easily accessible location on the coast of Maine. All the staff are very friendly, helpful, down to earth, and extremely efficient. The customer always comes first. The service department of the yard is one of their outstanding features. Their work could not be done better, and they maintain excellent communication with the customers. Since we are on a cruising boat, we don't spend long periods at the marina or on a mooring but both are very well maintained. The very large boat storage barns are new, well kept, and indeed impressive. We thank Safe Harbor Great Island for everything they have done to make our cruising adventures possible --- I can think of no better place to take my boat.

Marina Response:
We are always grateful for the opportunity to care for your boats and prepare them for the adventures you seek. Knowing that the boats we service are being used in real and meaningful ways gives us great satisfaction. We all live vicariously through you when you sail to unique and remote places. Bon voyage! And thank you for the trust you place in us.
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Great Island Boat Yard is a wonderful boat yard and marina to work with. Being in the marine service industry I am exposed to a wide range of marinas and boat yards and GIBY is one of the best I have worked with. The service and communication is excellent. The staff always does there best accommodate our changing schedules. The work we have done is always of the highest quality. Great Island is a exceptional facility for all of your boating needs.

Marina Response:
Thank you for your kind words. We value your feedback and the trust you place in us when you refer your clients.
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This is a really well run marina with great service. We've had quite a bit of refitting work done here and are always thrilled with the work. They give fair estimates, keep you informed with the status, and go over the work with you once it's done. Moorings and pendants are well maintained and kept clean, and the entire staff is friendly and professional.

Marina Response:
Thank you for sharing your experience. We value our relationship and the many service/refit opportunities you have provided our team as we help to prepare your boat for your anticipated cruise south.
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We re-located our cruising sailboat here 6 years ago from a North Shore Yacht Club. We are still delighted with our decision. Great access to Maine's cruising grounds with an easy drive from our home even when it's for "just" a weekend. Harpswell is a great jumping off point for an extended cruise east. The yard does excellent work and we appreciate the watchful eye of the staff when we aren't aboard. Overnight, short haul, bad weather, or for the season, we can't imagine keeping our boat anywhere else. The staff is friendly, attentive and skilled. There's easy access to Brunswick with great restaurants, and Amtrack service if you need it for an unplanned layover.

Marina Response:
We are so happy you have chosen Safe Harbor Great Island as your home port. We can't imagine summers without you!
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Safe Harbor Great Island is a wonderful place to stop on a Summer cruise or stay for the season (Summer or Winter). We have stayed in hundreds of marinas up and down the East Coast and this one is one of the best. Staff is exceptional, friendly and accomodating. Good spot to leave a boat for any time period and it's location - moorings and docks - is considered a hurricane hole as you are removed from the ocean swells and busy traffic of nearby cities. A bucolic place; however, only fifteen minutes by car away from good restaurants, great hiking trails, and all the provisioning and big box stores you need while cruising. A rare find.

Marina Response:
A rare find, but we are sure glad YOU found us! Thank you for spreading the word and for sharing your experience.
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Ten Years at Great Island. Once again another fantastic season in 2021! “Thanks to the crew at Safe Harbor Great Island for their exceptional service and a first class experience this summer.”

Marina Response:
Our pleasure, Andy! Ten years and counting. We look forward to serving you for many more!
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I had the opportunity to stay with at Safe Harbor Great Island a few times, and each time, I was amazed by the setting and the staff. Kristin, who I had the pleasure of working with in planning our stay, was tremendously helpful and accommodating. The service she and the team provided was exceptional, and I cannot wait to come back. If you're traveling in the area or considering boating around Harpswell, I couldn't encourage you more enthusiastically to check out Safe Harbor Great Island!

Marina Response:
Thank you for sharing your Safe Harbor Great Island experience. We look forward to your next visit.
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Verified

Nice mooring with heavy duty clean pendants, plenty of swing. Great people to work with. Bathrooms were very clean.

Marina Response:
We are glad to offer all of these things in our effort to make cruising comfortable and enjoyable for you and your fellow boaters. We hope to see you again in 2022.
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If we could award more than 5 stars, I would. GIBY is an example of great customer service- a super great facility- well protected- and simply the best possible all around experience. I am fortunate enough to make GIBY both my summer homeport as well for winter storage and look forward to every aspect. If I can cite one standout- every employee has a great attitude and extremely customer centric.

Marina Response:
Thank you for this 5-star review. We are glad to have s/v Q as part of our fleet. We look forward to supporting your sailing adventures in the years ahead and hope you continue to find great value in your Membership here.
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I cannot speak more highly of this Marina. The amenities were top-notch (other than wi-fi) but more importantly the people were extraordinary from the lady who runs the cafe to the management, technicians, dock master and dock hands. Had some unexpected electronic and other issues and these were taken care of in the most professional manner. Most marinas could care less about transients but this Marina treated me as if I was a long term customer. If they were not so distant from my home base they would be my base of choice. Cannot wait to return.

Marina Response:
Thank you! We hope you will return the next time you cruise our region. See you then!
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Verified

Simply the best boatyard and marina on the east coast. A beautiful, protected location with very qualified people. Everyone is cheerful, helpful, and always pushing to exceed expectations. We give great island an A+

Marina Response:
Thank you for the high marks. We hope you and your family will find your way north again soon, maybe in 2023. Wait until you see the new marina and upland facilities. We think you will like what you find - even more!
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This is a fantastic harbor that is beautiful and very well-protected. Safe Harbor Great Island's facilities and people are also top-notch and have made our multiple stays here very enjoyable and comfortable. This past winter we also chose Great Island for some major maintenance and upgrades on our sailboat and were thrilled with their capabilities, timeliness, and results. It was a complete pleasure to work with the team and they exceeded our expectations on every dimension. We're already looking forward to our next visit to Great Island!

Marina Response:
Thank you for taking time to share your experience. Our team certainly enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with you to achieve your goals. It was a pleasure working on such a lovely boat, and with such lovely people! We look forward to your next visit.
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Verified

Top notch service. Christine, Dillon, and Annika went above and beyond my expectations. Located in a beautiful cove.

Marina Response:
Hope your big sailing adventure was a great success! Glad to be one of your stops along the way.
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Great Island came recommended to us by our broker, who had previously been at the yard for remodeling the office cabin into a guest cabin. The carpentry work performed was excellent, and I was informed that the yard was the best in the area. We came in for refrigeration work, and it was accomplished on time and to high standards. I have experienced boatyards and marinas on the Eastcoast, from top to bottom, and do not hesitate to recommend Safe Harbor Great Island for their professional work and customer care. Plan early so as not to miss a lovely spot and great people.

Marina Response:
Thank you for sharing your Great Island experience. We appreciate that a yacht broker recommendation lead you to us, and hope that your review will do the same for others. Referrals have a way of connecting us to those who truly value the kind of service and experience we offer. We enjoyed meeting you and caring for your Fleming 55. Please visit us again when you return to Maine!
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The staff at SHGI is simply top shelf. They recently completed the second refit of my 58' sailboat over the last two years. I've dealt with a number of boatyards over the past 15 years from the Chesapeake to Maine. SHGI's staff possesses an unparalleled level of skills and craftsmanship across many disciplines from rigging, propulsion, refrigeration, systems and electronics to paint, varnish, fiberglass, cabinetry and even teak decking. And it's all delivered with an amazing level of customer service from the time you first hail them on VHF to when you call for advise from a thousand miles away.

Marina Response:
We are looking forward to you next (upcoming) service visit. We value the ongoing relationship. See you soon!
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Verified

Well protected mooring area with easy to pick up pendant. Mooring field is not close to the marina so could not pick up any Wifi service. Nothing really within walking distance of the facility that we could find. There's a busy two lane road with no sidewalk. However, the beauty of area made it worth the stop. Spent time exploring the coast and islands in our dinghy. It's just a nice, quiet place to hang out.

Marina Response:
You took in our area the best way - exploring by tender. Glad you found beauty in the calm and quiet.
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Verified

Such a beautiful spot tucked in a very protected spot in Eastern Harpswell. A great launching spot with easy access to explore the Mid-Coast Maine. Dock attendants are helpful, as well as cheerful. There is a relaxed low key vibe which is in contrast to other Marina's further down the peninsula. Restrooms as well as all facilities are clean and updated. Communication and instructions from the marina was clear and understandable. I will definitely stay again in the future.

Marina Response:
So glad you enjoyed your last visit. We hope to see you again next summer, if not this season.
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The staff here were amazing. Squeezed us in so we had a slip that night. Kristen was very helpful to and super knowledgeable. All the dock hands knew exactly what they were doing. Provisions was so good with nice sandwiches and take away wine. The marina is very protected in the river and full of beautiful scenery. Laundry was in good shape.

Marina Response:
Thanks for the feedback. We are very proud of our young dock staff. Glad you go to experience their services first hand. See you on your next visit!
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Excellent service and friendly staff. Be sure to check out Craft Kitchen for lunch or pick up a prepped meal for dinner on the boat. They could have one of the best brisket sandwiches I have ever had and my kids loved their homemade ice cream sandwiches.

Marina Response:
Thank you for letting other boaters know about Craft Kitchen & Provisions. We enjoyed getting to know you and your family. There's nothing better than seeing kids come ashore for ice cream! We hope to see you again soon.
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Verified

Great staff - awesome location- great amenities- will definitely go back

Marina Response:
Wonderful! We look forward to your next visit.
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Great Island Boat Yard (aka GIBY) is quite literally one of my favorite places in the world! They have become a seriously fantastic landmark for quality boat work... Some of the finest boats come to GIBY for reliable projects! Most recently: I've worked with Graham Wright as a service manager to get a Sabre sailboat back up to snuff and cruising again. He's been super responsive and helpful. In the offseason, you'd be lucky to have your boat stored and serviced inside one of their gorgeous indoor warehouses. In the summertime, GIBY is a wash with gorgeous boats!

Marina Response:
Charlotte, thank you for recognizing GIBY - and Graham, for his hard work and dedication. We're lucky to have him as one of our Service Managers. We look forward to working with you again - when you assist your next client with buying or selling a boat.
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I’ve sailed to 21 countries, 50,000+nm, and I count my blessings that Great Island Boat Yard is my home port and home base. Extraordinary craftsmanship and work ethic; work done cost effectively; big enough to do sophisticated projects, yet friendly totally hands-on family-owned and small enough to be comfortable and informal - everyone on a first-name basis. Mantra to always go the extra steps to exceed customer expectations. Excellent proactive communication and responsiveness. Immaculate facilities; gorgeous, protected cove that makes hanging out at dock or mooring as much fun as sailing coastal Maine or across an ocean. Haven’t found another yard that comes close. - John Reid s/v Ramble Too (written from Guadeloupe)

Marina Response:
Wow! We're humbled to be ranked across such a broad spectrum...and very glad to still be your home port. Bon voyage! We look forward to your return in 2020.
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When searching for a place to keep a Cape Dory 36 somewhere in the Casco Bay area I found GIBY on Google Earth, drove up to look at the yard on a Sunday in January and immediately decided it looked like a great spot. Been there 5 years now and can’t say enough good things about the place. The yard and facilities are well kept, staff is very professional/friendly/helpful, the location is well protected and the on site cafe is super convenient. Service at the yard is unparalleled in terms of timeliness and quality. My family and I look forward to being back at GIBY each summer.

Marina Response:
Thank you, Scott! We're glad you found us and enjoy having your boat as part of the summer fleet. It's great that you're taking full advantage of Craft Kitchen & Provisions, onsite. We think Pamela's food is one of Quahog Bay's best kept secrets. It's time to get the word out!
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We have stored our sailboat at BIBY for many years. This yard is unequalled for its professionalism with a specific manager assigned to each boat, knowledgeable and accommodating staff, and great relationships with subcontractors (extensive engine work, sailmakers, dodger work, etc.). Our boat has been carefully prepared and has been on time each year. Just as an example, we have had many people admire the terrific job GIBY has done each year on our extensive brightwork. I can highly recommend GIBY to any boat owner who wants an outstanding yard to care for their boat.

Marina Response:
Thank you for your kind words, David. It is our pleasure to care for your boat each winter. We consider the relationships that we develop with our customers a job perk!
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Sailing from Scotland to New Zealand and did small refit at GIBY Sept 19. A very professional and capable team, owner hands on and has recruited a fabulous team. Peaceful location and GIBY team could not have been more helpful. Offered well thought out alternative solutions to suite my boat and ocean sailing requirements and met tight time scheduled. Could not speak highly enough of this team, it was a pleasure to be one of their customers.

Marina Response:
Pauline! It's so good to hear from you. We think of you often as you make your way toward the Pacific. We look forward to hearing your sea stories and to receiving pictures of your boat in faraway and exotic locations. It was our pleasure assisting you in preparing your boat for this leg of your journey. Please keep in touch!
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We've spent several nights on GIBY's moorings- always a pleasure. Great friendly staff, exceptionally clean restrooms & showers and well-protected moorings with all of Quahog Bay to explore. Friday night gathering on the deck was great, and breakfast at the cafe was a very nice break from cooking onboard. We'll be back!

Marina Response:
We look forward to your next visit, Al and Nita. We hope you'll continue to take advantage our our summer Music on the Deck series. And please tell your friends about Craft Kitchen & Provisions. Pamela's food is one of Quahog Bay's best kept secrets!
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Best marina and full service boat yard I’ve ever worked with. Highly competent staff who go the extra mile to serve you whether it be repair work or dock service. I’d go out of my way to have this boat yard do work for me.

Marina Response:
Dave, we're so glad that our paths crossed this summer. We enjoyed working with you and bumping into you again at the NIBS! We hope you'll visit GIBY again, the next time you're in Maine.
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Great Island Boat Yard is a terrific yard! We are very pleased with their service, their work, and especially their can-do attitude. Kristin and Graham communicate well and do everything to accommodate our requests. We are very happy to have our boat there.

Marina Response:
Thank you for the encouragment, Tony. We're glad to have the opportunity to care for your boat.
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GIBY is a great marina at the East end of Casio Bay. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Their ability for maintenance and service is excellent. I stopped by one day and was so impressed with their ability, I had them perform a number of repairs, including a stove replacement, stereo upgrade, and satellite tv installation. All done for a reasonable fee and with fine quality installation. One of my favorite stops in Maine.

Marina Response:
Thanks, Captain Jack! It's nice to hear from you. We hope to see you again, on your next visit to Maine.
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Great facilities with always a helpful hand on the docks! CLEAN new building They have a great parts department for DIY and the best folks ever for fixing ANYTHING.

Marina Response:
Thanks for the kind words. We hope you're enjoying your winter sailing and the opportunity to explore Puerto Rico!
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Great workmanship, friendly staff, a tasty if small cafe, and a well protected harbor. I have docked at GIBY for over 10 years and have never been disappointed in their work. I head south in the winter and they are always ready to help with questions along the way and amazingly can almost always solve the problem without an eyes on.

Marina Response:
Thank you, Will! It's our pleasure to care for you and your Lyman-Morse 42. We look forward to your return north each season - and the sunshine you always bring. The cafe, Craft Kitchen & Provsions, will be open again in late May. See your for lunch!
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Excellent facility...very well managed with a friendly staff. We had complicated transmission work done and we were delighted with our technician and the results. Top notch!

Marina Response:
Thank you! Our technicians always appreciate a good challenge. Glad we could help. We hope to see you back in Maine soon!
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5 star marina and boat yard for sure. I stayed at GIBY in September. They put me on a mooring close by the docks. Very secure and protected. They have marine supplies and service on site and excellent amenities as well.

Marina Response:
Thank you for the high marks. It has been a while. Hope to see you again sometime.
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Verified

No one there when we arrived at 8 PM Saturday evening and no combination to the bathroom

Marina Response:
Maria. We want to apologize for your negative experience at GIBY. We understand that you arrived at 8pm, after hours, and did not have the combo to the heads. We should have reached out to you when it was apparent that you would not be in before closing, as planned. Please know that the Dockwa chat option is always available, even after hours. Your experience is a reminder to our staff, that we, too, can reach out electronically. We enjoy a 5-Star rating and are sorry that we missed an opportunity to deliver the experience you should have had. Our staff had hoped to greet you this morning, but you were already underway. We hope there will be another opportunity for us to get it right.
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Verified

Entire staff that we dealt with were friendly, welcoming and helpful. Were a big help with a repair we needed done too. Special shout out to Kristin and Graham for the hospitality and assistance!

Marina Response:
Our pleasure. Hope to see you again soon!
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My husband and I over the years have been in many boatyards and marinas on the eastern seaboard and in the Caribbean for repairs, overnight stops and even storing over the winter. It's safe to say we are a fairly decent judge of what makes a good boatyard. When we found GIBY, who have now looked after our boat for over 4 years we were blown away by the service, talent of team, the customer-service driven atmosphere and love of boats! They are outstanding at what they do and I personally think one would be hard pressed to find a better yard on the east coast. My husband jokes (maybe not a joke) that if they ever sold their yard that he would leave boating forever.

Marina Response:
Thanks for your kind words, "MarineKat".
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Verified

Very friendly and helpful crew. Beautiful protected cove. Clean, hot, spacious shower rooms. The whole boatyard is oederly and well run.

Marina Response:
And we have made many improvements since your last visit. Hope to see you again soon!
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Verified

Kristin - thanks again for the "platinum" service at Great Island Boat Yard on Wednesday... We'll be back soon! I'll keep an eye out for your email as a follow up, as we discussed... Best regards, Ken

Marina Response:
Hope your sailing adventures continue. Come see us again soon. Lots of improvements since your last visit, including an all new marina!
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