Chicks Marina - Kennebunkport, ME

Where the Kennebunk River flows into the Atlantic awaits an idyllic destination that belongs at the top of your cruising wish list. Chicks Marina, just 20 miles south of Portland, is synonymous with the best of coastal Maine boating.

Created a half century ago by local boat builder Booth Chick, the marina has been run by the Katz family for over 30 years. Their maritime traditions blend perfectly with the marina's home harbor, Kennebunkport (est. in 1653), which is anchored in history yet lively and fun.

While Kennebunkport watched America grow from a colony to a country, shipbuilding, sailing and fishing flourished in the town. The streets are lined with Victorian ship captains' mansions, many of which now serve as inns or B&Bs. It's a popular place for summer homes, including the family retreat of presidents George H.W. and George W. Bush. Historic landmarks, such as St. Ann's Episcopal Church (1887) and Goat Island Lighthouse (1835) at Cape Porpoise, stand out above the trees.

A short walk or shuttle ride on the marina's electric car is Colony Beach and Dock Square, the hub of this historic seaport community. Here you find unique shops, galleries, several hotels, and dozens of restaurants serving fresh local seafood and the beloved Maine lobsters.

Why Boaters Love Chicks

Chicks Marina is designed with boaters' convenience in mind. It has floating docks, 40 seasonal slips and a 300-foot, open-face dock for transient guests. The slips and dock are dredged to seven feet to comfortably accommodate vessels up to 165 feet. Completely replaced a few seasons ago, the floating dock and piling system were upgraded with 30/50/100 amp electrical and water systems. And Chicks is the only marina on the river offering 91 Octane gas and ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel.

It's hard to imagine a better place to enjoy a summer day than on Chicks' sundeck and patio kicking back in a comfy Adirondack chair, taking a picnic to the nearby beach, or cooking your catch on a gas grill.

Best of all, Chicks spoils its guests with baked goods in the morning and whoopie pies in the afternoon. The ship store is loaded with branded hats, clothing, marine supplies, cold drinks and ice. And even your dog is welcomed with a puppy treat at the front office.