Seguin Lighthouse and its namesake island make for a fine family outing. Not only is the light rich in Maine's nautical history, but the sights, sounds and smells make for an absorbing experience enjoyable by kids of every age.
Moorings and the Cove
Looking at the picture at right and the chart below, you'll see a small cove on the northern end of Seguin. There are five guest moorings available for temporary use while enjoying the island. It's a picturesque location to begin your visit.
You'll need a dingy to go ashore, landing on a "Maine beach" available during the lower 3/4s of tide. You can come ashore at high tide, but don't expect a beach!
Anchoring is not allowed in the cove due to an underwater cable that feeds power to the island.
Meet the Caretakers
From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the island is lovingly looked after by volunteer caretakers. You should let them know you're there. They can answer questions and make your visit more enjoyable and rich. Go with them on a tour of Maine's only "1st Order Fresnel" lens and the museum. The lens is 13 feet high! You'll be awed at this crystal-like beauty. After that, explore the island on your own.
Caretakers are a part of The
Friends of Seguin Island, Inc. This organization looks after the island and advocates for it when needed. All they ask for in return is appreciation for this historic landmark and if you are so inclined, a donation to help keep it for future generations. The Friends invite you to consider joining them, which can be done for as little as $25. But higher amounts are appreciated, too!
You can visit their gift shop where you can choose from a variety of items that will signify your visit to the island. The "History of Seguin" book in particular will add to the richness of your visit and memory of the day. You can also visit their
on-line gift-shop.
Caring for the Island
When you visit the island there are a few rules published by the Friends:
- Keep dogs leashed. Take any doggy do-do with you!
- Whatever trash you create, take
- Use the composting toilet for human waste
ONLY*
- If you aren't sure, ask a Caretaker
* NOTE: There have been instances where boaters have used the composting toilet for things other than human waste. Please, please, please help the Friends by respecting their facility.
Plenty of Height Above Sea Level
In fact, you won't find a higher lighthouse in Maine. It's a full 186 feet above the sea, so do take your time and have some good hiking shoes.
Those hiking shoes will bring you some breathtaking vistas.
Historic Data from the Coast Guard:
Location: KENNEBEC RIVER/SOUTH OF GEORGETOWN
Station Established: 1795
Year Current Tower(s) First Lit: 1857
Operational? YES
Automated? YES 1985
Deactivated: n/a
Foundation Materials: SURFACE ROCK
Construction Materials: GRANITE BLOCKS/BRICK
Tower Shape: CYLINDRICAL
Markings/Pattern: WHITE W/BLACK LANTERN
Relationship to Other Structure: ATTACHED
Original Lens: FIRST ORDER, FRESNEL 1857
Conclusion
If you look at the chart, you'll see that Seguin is readily accessible to boaters traversing the Maine coast between Casco Bay and the Mid Coast regions. So if you're visiting this area for the first time, plan to stop by Seguin to experience a bit of Maine history, and Maine Beauty, all in one place. And bring the family.
One last note: Pay careful attention to your charts and know where you are at all times... ledges and rocks in this general area will win in a contest between your boat and them.