Unique Waterfront Experience
House in Harpswell, ME
8 guests · 4 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
About this house rental
Nestled above the only solar-powered, working waterfront, lobster wharf, this rental offers you a one of a kind experience. Not only will you see the lobstermen off load their catch at the end of the day, you will also have the opportunity to be a part of the end of the day activities at the wharf. You will also have a chance to take a sun set cruise around Casco Bay with Jim on the fishing vessel Hunter James.
Water access is available for smaller boats and kayaks as well. While there you can paddle through the Reversing Falls into Basin Cove. Harpswell has a rocky coastline providing tidepools for exploration. There are coves and beaches for relaxing and taking in nature's beauty. Within 2 miles are two different seafood restaurants that offer great food and views of Casco Bay. OR bring your fishing pole and catch your own fish-dish. You can cast your line from the docks or from your boat. Yes, bring your boat along with you!
Water access is available for smaller boats and kayaks as well. While there you can paddle through the Reversing Falls into Basin Cove. Harpswell has a rocky coastline providing tidepools for exploration. There are coves and beaches for relaxing and taking in nature's beauty. Within 2 miles are two different seafood restaurants that offer great food and views of Casco Bay. OR bring your fishing pole and catch your own fish-dish. You can cast your line from the docks or from your boat. Yes, bring your boat along with you!
Amenities
Air conditioner
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
TV
Map of Harpswell, ME
££££
Reviews
8.0
The home was spacious and comfortable. We thoroughly enjoyed the sights and sounds of the working harbor and reversing falls right from the back deck of the house. We gained a real appreciation for the hard work watermen put in each day. From bait harvest to lobster distribution, and impressive boat handling, you get to see it all. Away from the Lobster Pound, there were plenty of nice hiking trails nearby. We also did not go hungry with the fun lunch and dinner spots throughout Harpswell (and its islands) and nearby Brunswick. Lastly, the friendly sunset cruise with Capt. Jim topped it all off. We lucked into a ride on the tuna boat, and had great conversation, gawked at seals and waterfowl, and enjoyed our wine and cheese until sunset.
10.0
Just as we remembered. This was our 4th visit and over the last thirteen years. Just hope it doesn’t take as long to get back there
10.0
Jim and Sara were great. We had lots of room, the location was great and we loved going out in the bay with Jim. Highly recommend this location. Hope to go back!
10.0
The experience was exactly as listed and the hosts were very helpful. Would go back for sure.
10.0
Grateful to Sara and Jim for a wonderful stay at the Captain’ house. Great property
10.0
I want to start off by saying that Jim and Sarah are absolutely the most sweet and welcoming hosts you could ask for, true hospitality! If you are looking for an unforgettable experience on the coast of Maine, and really want to see the workings of a lobster wharf, this is the place for you! Not only is it in a gorgeous location but it’s definitely interesting to learn about the lobstering and fishing community. My husband and our dog and two friends from Florida stayed here during the week of Fourth of July and got to see fireworks from the back of a lobster boat, (wow!) we also got to see them bring in an almost 500 pound tuna! If you’re a fisherman and love the ocean, this is the ideal location. It’s also convenient to so many things, grocery stores, shopping, local art galleries, hiking, etc. We felt truly welcome and had such a great week. Harpswell is gorgeous and inspiring, thank you again Jim and Sarah!
10.0
We loved our stay at Sara & Jim’s house. The experience I felt was the true Maine. We were able to see lobster boats come & go. Harpswell had plenty of beautiful trails to explore. My kids loved exploring the tide pools & exploring the beaches. We traveled to Portland, Kittery Point, Old orchard beach, Freeport, Boothbay& etc. we were able to get to most places within a hour or a little longer. We bought fresh lobsters several nights from Sara. We were able to go on a boat ride & see the beautiful coast line! The house was very spacious & had everything we needed, We are already starting to plan our next trip because we miss it already. A great place all around!!
10.0
Plenty of open space, bedrooms and bathrooms for a group of family and friends. The beds are very comfortable. The kitchen was well stocked including everything you need to cook up lobster you can get right there at the dock below the rental apartment. The views of the harbor from the upper deck right off the living room and bedrooms were gorgeous. We enjoyed watching the fishing and lobster boats come and go. Our group loved the lobster boat ride around the area by Capt. Jim. Harpswell is a great location in ME, removed from the crowds but still close enough to several beaches and points of interest. We loved the Botanical Garden and giant wooden troll sculptures on this trip.
10.0
We had a wonderful time. The house has lots of room and very comfortable beds. Our son loved the lobster boats. We learned a great deal from Jim. We hope to be back some day!
Thank You
10.0
What a wonderful place to stay! The hosts were extremely friendly and helpful, and so responsive to our many questions. The space was perfect for our group of seven adults. The view was amazing and the lobsters delicious. A completely delightful experience overall. We plan to be back someday!
10.0
This is such a unique property - beautiful and educational! We really enjoyed watching the lobster boats come and in and out each day. We learned so much from Captain Jim and his crew - they were great at answering ALL of our many questions about everything lobster/fishing/boats/Maine! The property is well kept and clean. Lots of beds and room for families. This was a great place to disconnect and relax. The boat ride was a highlight of our trip - something our kids will never forget!
10.0
Stayed a week over 4th of July. The house was very clean and relaxing. Lots of comfy seating, nice deck overlooking the water and cove, spacious living area and huge master bedroom. Bathrooms and kitchen well equipped. So much closet and storage space everywhere, we didn’t need it but would be handy. Loved having washer and dryer. Dishwasher would be nice but we didn’t really use a lot of dishes due to eating out or carrying food in. I recommend bringing bottled water.
Fishing was available on the wharf and dock, but no luck for us. Best bet is to fish off a boat or drive over to the end of Grist Mill Lane where there’s a small parking lot. Fishing was good for striped bass during reversing falls. Pick up a local fishing license and rules. One bass per person a day.
Note for accessibility: several steps at entry to house. Master bath has sit-in shower. Steep paved slope walking down from the house to wharf area. The whole house is one level indoors, no steps to deck or on deck.
As for noise, we slept through any wharf noise there was in the mornings. There are a lot of trucks parked nearby during work, but you have a personal spot at the entry to the house. The men and women working were quiet.
Only noise to note was fireworks night on the cove, so understandable. We really enjoyed them from the deck.
You can buy fresh lobster at the far left end of the wharf. It was delicious!
6.0
Not relaxing.
The property had beautiful views of a reversing current and offered stunning sunrise / sunset photos.
But know that there is a constant hum of diesel engine(s); whether that be from the boats or someone's pickup.
The property offered a lot of space for the money. There was a lot of room for my family of 4. (If only the TV worked better.)
The TV / Cable interface was constantly buffering. The interface was that one we get in other rentals we've had. Needless to say, it also difficult to use.
One bedroom was unusable with furniture stored / stacked.
We got there after checkin and the cleaning lady was still there. She told us that she forgot that she needed to clean this property. She didn't do a very good job since we had to get swiffer & Lysol and clean up.
Given this was a working lobster pound, we expected the sounds of diesel motors (boats & pickups) at earlier hours of the morning. Keep in mind that noise is constant.
We also expected there would be little free outdoor space for our kids to play. We were correct.
What we didn't expect was that there would be a fishy smell in the Master Bath & Dryer. Perhaps due to fish or bait being stored under our quarters.
We also didn't expect the metal screeching sounds of someone cutting up a metal cooler with a circular saw. Thanks a lot, whoever you were.
8.0
Our family of 7 had a lovely stay at Potts Harbor. The ability to come together is rare so we appreciated the opportunity to rent this apartment relatively later in the reservation season.
As other reviewers have said, the sunset cruise with Jim and Sue was the highlight. Being able to get out on the water on a gorgeous night for a private tour of the bay is unparalleled.
Having fresh lobster at one’s fingertips is also a real plus! Be sure to ask Jim and Sara to use their outdoor lobster cooker. Makes a huge difference as we initially cooked the lobsters in a lobster pot on the stove top. This meant not only heating up the apartment, but also smelling it up.
Jim and Sara were accommodating, and met us numerous times to purchase lobster for dinner.
The apartment is basic. Nothing fancy. It could use a little TLC. For the heat of the summer, be aware that the one a/c unit in the living room does not extend all the way down to the bedrooms, especially the main bedroom. There is a window fan in the main bedroom, but the night air doesn’t really cool off until later in the night. For light sleepers, be aware that this is a working lobster pound; therefore lobstermen start arriving as early as 4 am. The only bedroom affected is the main one but we just closed the window by the bed.
In addition, be aware that cell service is weak at the end of the peninsula where Potts Harbor is located, but WiFi is fine. Good way to disconnect from work!
All in all, a good stay!
8.0
Jim was very responsive and his sunset boat cruise was a highlight as well as the fresh lobsters straight from his boat.
Easy access to many beautiful spots.
With a little more maintenance, it would be a 5 star spot.
10.0
Maine home away from home
We absolutely loved our stay at Potts Harbor Lobster wharf! The home was nice and comfortable. All the things you could want for a stay at home were provided. We felt very welcomed not only by the Merrimans but by every person at the wharf that we met and talked to. It was really neat to see a piece of Maine life from the view of the lobstermen. The boat ride was great, got to see seals. Even though it was a working wharf we never were bothered by noise. Ocean/seafood smells were very tolerable, even for those with sensitive noses. Everyone in the area was wonderful and friendly to us. There is a great Community Store down the street with basics, reasonable fuel and food. Also a really nice icecream stand with basic food as well. Lots of water to be explored in the area, some additional restaurants and a marina are close by. Really all you need for a week away to enjoy the true Maine experience! Add the Merriman's place to your list - you won't be disappointed!
10.0
Wonderful place
Couldn't ask for better place to stay or family to rent from. We can't wait to go back. Highly recommend
10.0
Wonderful Stay!
We had a lovely stay at the property. The sunset cruise is a must!! The owners are really wonderful. If you’re a Seaglass collector, check the cove when the tide goes out. We found a ton. Getting fresh lobster from the Merryman‘s is definitely a bonus. We had a really great time.
10.0
Family Vacation
My family and I had a wonderful stay at Jim and Sarah’s cottage their hospitality was above and beyond letting us join in on their family boat trip to watch fireworks off the ocean to giving us a sun set cruise to selling us lobsters fresh off the boat the views from the cottage were breathtaking we enjoyed the lobster boats going and coming and learning what they did year round it was definitely an unforgettable vacation Thank you so much
10.0
Unforgettable
House and lobster wharf as described. Only complaint is you have an obstructed view with the deck railing. Suggest a thinner rail or higher chairs. Could access the rocky beach at the wharf when the tide was out. Unreal tides, we had never experienced anything like it. Or there is public access to the shore from a sidestreet. Many hiking trails nearby, and an ice cream shop within a few miles. Jim accommodated us on an evening cruise although he works from sunup to sundown daily on the boats. Thank you Sue for being our tour guide. Saw seals and porpoises, beautiful sunset. This was a relaxing experience with amazing views and fresh seafood. Unforgettable first trip to Maine
10.0
Great place for family vacation
Our family enjoyed staying in Jim and Sara’s house. The location is perfect for either just watching fishing boats from the deck or exploring hiking trails/beaches in the area. Thank you Ashley for the fishing tips of how to catch strippers. We also had a wonderful time during the evening cruise!
10.0
Paradise in Harpswell Maine
Spent a week at Jim and Sara home .
It’s quite a spot that we have never seen in Harpswell ME adventurous , awesome and educational, friendly place to stay. We enjoyed ourselves and thank you Jim and Sara !
Especially our sunset cruise !
And Sue our tour guide !!
😎❤️
10.0
Unique property
We had a great stay in Harpswell. The property is unique in that it is overlooking the wharf, but that is what made it special. We loved watching the lobster boats come in and learning about the industry. The highlight of the trip was going out on the boat and seeing the seals. Jim & Sara are great. I highly recommend this house if you are looking for something different.
10.0
Great getaway
We had a great experience staying at this property. After being couped up, this was the covid getaway that we needed. The house is very warm, clean, and welcoming. We very much appreciate the quick communication, the boat ride and the opportunity to purchase lobsters. We had some success fishing right from their wharf. The saltwater air and the view from the deck/balcony brings a very calming effect. We also had a chance to view the unloading of lobsters from their boats. Harpswell is very friendly with plenty of opportunities to tour coves and the nature preserves. We would definitely add Harpswell and this property as a return vacation.
10.0
Great time
We enjoyed our stay a lot. It was nice having the activity at the warf to watch, never a dull moment. The owner Jim bought us on his boat to tour the bays one of the evenings that we also enjoyed very much! Jim was available for any questions concerns and lobster needs! Highly recommend this home !
10.0
Fantastic getaway in a beautiful area!
We just spent one of the best, most relaxing vacations ever in Harpswell, ME. The view from this house is awesome, and the owners are the best! Jim even takes you for a sunset cruise on his boat during the week, which was one of the highlights of our trip. Because the house is located at the wharf, we were able to cook (in the most well-stocked vacation home I've ever seen!) and eat delicious lobster we watched Jim and his hardworking crew bring in the very same day. How often does a person get to experience that?! The Reversing Falls were mesmerizing to watch from the deck. My husband was also able to catch four large stripped bass fly fishing near the falls during the change of tides, so he was stoked! We took several day trips to do things nearby: kayaking off of Bailey Island, hiking the Giant's Stairs on Orr's Island, Maritime Museum in Bath, shopping in Freeport and Portland, etc. The nearby Dolphin Marina and Restaurant was amazing, and the nearby Ship 2 Shore and Vegetable Corner shops provided almost everything we needed! Can't recommend this place enough. A huge thanks again to Jim, Sara, Sue, and Ashley!
5.0
What a great place to spend our time. I new it would be lovely because all of the communication with Sara before our vacation was kind and thoughtul. A example was when I asked to book the vacation , her answer was, We would love to have you stay with us . I knew something would be special then. We have never had such gracious hosts. Our grandchilren and our whole family love Maine. This was a special trip beause we were at a the working wharf with lots of boats and lobstermen and losters.It was a beautiful everyday... the skies are gorgeous, the people are superb and the lobster divine. This is a special place. you will love it. Just leave some time for me to rent again next year.
10.0
It Was Perfect
What a great place to spend our time. I new it would be lovely because all of the communication with Sara before our vacation was kind and thoughtul. A example was when I asked to book the vacation , her answer was, "We would love to have you stay with us ." I knew something would be special then. We have never had such gracious hosts.
Our grandchilren and our whole family love Maine. This was a special trip beause we were at a the working wharf with lots of boats and lobstermen and losters.
It was a beautiful everyday... the skies are gorgeous, the people are superb and the lobster divine. This is a special place. you will love it. Just leave some time for me to rent again next year.
10.0
Wonderful House with Spectacular Views
We had a wonderful stay at this house, and truly loved our Maine experience! Our only regret was that we missed our boat outing, at no fault of the owners. We really enjoyed sitting out on the deck in the mornings, sipping on coffee, while watching the boats getting prepared for their daily excursions.
10.0
Amazing working lobster wharf!
Wonderful spot to get the true Maine experience. Sara & Jim we’re gracious hosts. My family really enjoyed the sunset cruise in the warters around Harpswell.
10.0
A True "Maine" Event
We enjoyed our stay at Sara and Jim's waterfront home which shares space with their Lobster Fishing Business. We had a waterfront view that was truly Maine and enjoyed watching the Reversing Falls from our deck each morning with coffee in hand. The accommodations were great for our crew of 7 (parents & adult kids)- they were clean and well cared for. Games,reading material, well equipped kitchen and laundry, information on the surrounding area all added to the pleasure and comfort of our stay. The hospitality offered by Jim and Sara was wonderful- we were able to experience the lobster boat races from their boat- we asked where we should go to view and were immediately invited to join them- what fun! Our evening boat cruise on Thursday, though a bit rainy, out to Half Way Point was awesome as we were able to see the seals splashing about. Jim is a treasure of knowledge about the area and the lobster industry. Sara was so kind to find out if we had left a charging cable...we did - and offered to mail it back to us. Harpswell is a great spot from which to day trip and explore and we would stay again.
Thanks Sara & Jim!
10.0
Beautiful view, fresh lobster, and amazing boat ride
Our family enjoyed sitting on the deck watching the activity on the water. Boats coming in and heading out. The reversing falls doing its job of changing direction as the tide came in. The sunset cruise in Jim’s boat was stunning. The hosts are amazing and we enjoyed talking with the boat crews. We hope to return soon.
10.0
One of a kind experience
My wife and I have been coming here for 3 years. The house is perfect, overlooking the ocean just 20 feet away. The reversing falls is something you'll never forget. If your an early riser; being able to watch the lobstermen prepare for the day and watching the boats leave is simply wonderful. The house is always clean and there is a washer and dryer which makes any vacation so much easier.
The owners boat is the highlight, a beautiful sunset cruise, seeing the seals, smelling the salt air,,,, perfect. The opportunity to eat lobster caught the same day is something you don't get to experience normally, the taste is amazing. Our two dogs love swimming in the ocean every morning.
For activitys, lands end is a short drive away, dolphin marina has the most amazing bacon wrapped Scallops, 5 star dining in a relaxed environment. Brunswick is a 20 minute drive and has a lot to do for adults as well as young ones. If your up for a drive bath and the maritime museum is the place to head to, and of course a 40 minute drive puts you at the doors of the famous L.L. Bean!!
The owners Jim and Sarah have become good friends and the manager has been a good friend for longer than I can remember. We've grown to call this place our second home, because that's what it feels like, HOME.
You will not regret this rental!!!
10.0
Home away from home!
Great place! Clean comfortable and great view of the lobster wharf and reversing falls. The house is close to great restaurants and places to explore. The boat trip to pull up lobster traps and catch a couple fish was amazing. Jim and Sue were extremely friendly and happy to share the lobstering culture.
10.0
Lobster Pound for Pound this Rental Rocks
If you want a real taste of what it is like to be a Maine Lobsterman you have to stay here. Jim Merryman and his crew are the real deal and you watch it all from a spacious second floor well maintained rental. Sue Nelson makes every effort to assure this place is immaculate and comfortable for the guests. The rental is well stocked right down to the lobster pot to boil the days catch fresh off the F/V Hunter James.
The Ship and Shore store is just up the street to get your essential dry goods and libations ( the pizza is really good) also check out Vegetable Corner for the freshest produce, meats and baked goods(cash only). My favorite was the bowl of Fish Chowder and Maine Blueberry Muffin at the Dolphin Marina
The view from the large deck is second to none. You overlook the Reversing Falls of Potts Harbor into Basin Cove as the sun sets behind a tall stand of pines. As you take in the view you see the Lobster fleet return from a long day of Buggin' and really appreciate the hard work it takes to harvest fresh Maine lobster that goes on your plate. We enjoyed walking down to the docks and see the offload of the days catch.
Jim's wharf crew are extremely friendly and helpful in answering any of your questions. They are easily distinguished as Harpswell Locals by their footwear (rubber boots).
Make sure you take a boat ride to really see the beautiful islands of the area and the signature rocky coast of Maine.
Our family had a great week here and wanted to stay longer. We will definitely be back in the future...
10.0
Lobster Pound for Pound Worth the Stay
Hands down this rental rocks! The house is large and spacious. The deck overlooks the amazing Potts Harbor Reversing Falls at Basin Cove. Jim and his family have developed a unique rental right above a working Lobster Wharf. After spending a week here you will really appreciate how much hard work and time it takes to put a lobster on the table. Sue was very helpful in making sure everything was perfect for our family. The lobsters were delicious , sweet and plentiful down at the pound. The scenery is amazing rocky tree lined shores meet cool clear salt water. This is God's Country. Lifelong Harpswell resident Jim Merryman will take you on a short Lobster haul or a narrated tour of the area aboard the F/V Hunter James. I chose to haul lobster pots and it was well worth it. My family will be back in the future for sure
10.0
Great Place & Great People
We were very pleased with our stay here. The home is nicely laid out and well maintained. The listing on vrbo was very accurate and the 4 bedrooms and 2 baths were just what we needed for our stay. Our group enjoyed the harbor and lobster pound views and nothing could beat the fresh lobster that Jim (the owner) provided for us. Jim stopped by to check on us and Sue (the manager) also checked in to say hi and to be sure that all of our needs were being met. We loved the house, the views, and the people. We loved staying here and We truly hope to stay here again.
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Harpswell?
The average price for a rental in Harpswell is £282 per night. This rental is £46 less expensive than the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Unique Waterfront Experience. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Unique Waterfront Experience pet friendly?
Yes! This house is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at Unique Waterfront Experience?
We found 8 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and parking.
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