Cuckolds Lighthouse
Twice Abandoned
Built on one of two small, rocky outcroppings off the southern tip of Cape Newagen in Southern Maine, Cuckolds Lighthouse seemingly floats in the middle of the ocean. In 1892, $25,000 was used to build a signal station and lightkeeper’s house to help mariners navigate Boothbay Harbor’s foggy waters (especially during turbulent weather). The light tower wasn’t officially constructed until 1907, and it soon became affectionately known as the “Front Porch Light” of the Boothbay Harbor region.
For about 70 years, two families lived on the island year-round to keep the light on and sound the fog signal for mariners. No record exists of whether or not they were the original swingers. The lighthouse keepers were replaced by an automated light in 1974, but later that same year, the lighthouse was entirely decommissioned, and the island fell into a state of disrepair.
Fast forward to the 2000’s, when concerned locals decided to take action to save the Cuckolds. In 2006, they began efforts to restore the lighthouse to its former glory, repurposing it as a luxury inn and opening its doors to the public in late summer of 2014. As an inn, it must have held the record for hosting guests on the world’s smallest island. The Inn closed for good in 2019, but lucky visitors might still find vestiges of the operation on the island. During one of my “stays at the Inn,” I found a nice tea pot.
Exploring Cuck
Growing up on the water near Southport in Maine, Cuckolds Lighthouse became a favorite port of call. Among friends, it’s affectionately known as “Cuck.” “Do you want to swim in to Cuck?” or “I caught about thirty stripers right off of Cuck yesterday. It’s a wwwwet spot.”
To get there, we rip the Mako down the Damariscotta River out to the open ocean. We then head through Ram Island passage, which is amazing in its own right.
Imagine cruising along in a little boat through the choppy ocean with water so glassy you feel like you’re in the world’s deepest pool. It’s also not a rare sight to see porpoises jumping out of the water here and there, or some seals lounging lazily on some rocks. When I’m out here, I feel like I am at the end of the earth. Nothing but open ocean views to the south, and Damariscove in the distance. There is nothing like it.
TRIP TIPS:
When you anchor at Cuckold’s, it’s important to approach the harbor from the north side. Head towards the old Inn dock. You can’t tie up there, but you can drop anchor in the protected mini cove, and if you trust your anchor, you can brave the cold waters and swim in (strong swimmers only, no kids). It would also be a very gettable destination by sea kayak from Newagen.
Once you’re there, you will have the Inn and the island to yourself! You might even be able to make yourself a cup of tea.
The Cuckolds Lighthouse reflects an important part of Midcoast’s rich maritime culture, as well as my childhood. It seemed only fitting to include the Cuckolds in our adventure tee line.
