We traveled south from Acadia to Belfast, Maine. The view from our motorhome was of the ocean. It was the primary reason for staying here.
Belfast, Maine was a favorite of the local Indians for fishing, shellfish, and sea fowl. Later, it was a lucrative trading post during the fur trade era. In 1770, a group of Scottish/Irish named it Belfast after the city in Ireland. It was demolished during the War of 1812. Later, it became a shipbuilding center producing multiple masted schooners. With the advent of refrigeration, the area shifted its economy to harvesting seafood for the Boston and New York markets. Shoe manufacturing became an important business. After World War II, the poultry industry supplied up to 200,000 birds per day. After the recession in the 1970’s, the poultry industry collapsed. Housing became inexpensive, so artists and young college graduates moved into the area. In the 1990’s, the credit card giant, MBNA, established two facilities in Belfast providing jobs. Shipbuilding was reestablished in 1996. It is a port city that features a wealth of antique architecture in a few historic districts, and is a popular small cruise ship and tourist destination. The area has continually reinvented itself.
Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort
Moorings had stunning pull in oceanfront views. 50 amp service, 50 psi water pressure, and sewer. We had to pass the water and electric under the coach, but sewer was on both sides.
Jake really enjoyed his walks on the beach and exploring the submerged rocks. He was very entertaining to watch. We call him “the rock turner”.
During our stay the water was calm. Although the beach was rocky, it was easy to walk on.
Belfast, Maine
We enjoyed exploring the local food scene.
Three Tides & Marshall Wharf Brewing Company
Delicious beers but also a selection of wines. The food is simple, small plates, but very good. Its rustic, on the wharf, and attracts a local crowd.
Nautilus Seafood & Grill
They are on the wharf, have an outdoor patio, and good food. We enjoyed watching the boats go by in the harbor.
Cellardoor Winery
Located in Lincolnville and Portland, Maine. Cellardoor is about a 20 minute drive from downtown Belfast, Maine. What a beautiful restored 200 year old barn. Tastings are free and they have winery tours. Even though they have a large vineyard, most of their red varietals are from Washington or California. We really enjoyed their wines and bought a few bottles.
Young’s Lobster Pound
What a wonderful find. Huge lobster tanks. The staff were Jamaican. You pick your live seafood and they cook it on the spot.
There is no table service, but there are picnic tables outside to eat on. Some people bring their own table cloth and wine to enjoy their meal by the water and watch the sunset. Prices were great.
