{"id":10718,"date":"2015-06-19T12:16:43","date_gmt":"2015-06-19T16:16:43","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/?p=10718"},"modified":"2015-06-19T12:16:43","modified_gmt":"2015-06-19T16:16:43","slug":"dream-islands-2015","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/dream-islands-2015\/","title":{"rendered":"Dream Islands 2015"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summerguide 2015 | view this story as a .pdf<\/a><\/p>\n

Ready to get away? For sale this summer in Maine: 20 private islands.<\/h3>\n

By Jeanee Dudley<\/p>\n

\"SG15-Dream-Islands\"<\/a>While private island ownership was once reserved for the ultra-wealthy elite, you no longer have to be a rock star or hedge fund manager to afford one.<\/p>\n

Brown Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Hancock County,<\/strong> $749,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Make all your Dirty Dancing<\/em> fantasies come true on this private compound, reminiscent of Kellerman\u2019s in the Catskills. Nicatous Lake is not only a great place to practice your dance-partner lifts, but also a wild and secluded natural backdrop for this great family vacation spot.<\/p>\n

The main cottage features a single master bedroom, bathroom, living room, and a fantastic deck. Four separate guest cottages offer privacy for adult visitors and a sense of independence for youngsters. Just keep them out of the staff cabin. Just kidding.<\/p>\n

A custom kitchen and great room with wrap-around deck bring everyone together for barbecues, sunset cocktails, and evening board games. If you need a little alone time, each cottage comes furnished with the necessities and a few extras\u2013namely DirecTV and DVRs.<\/p>\n

Taxes $900; 5.2 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Little Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Harpswell, $549,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Little Island is minutes from Brunswick\u2019s bustling Maine Street. Better still, it\u2019s transformative: At high tide, its three-bedroom cottage stands alone atop its three-acre isle in Cundy\u2019s Harbor. But when the tide rolls out, Little Island becomes a little isthmus and it\u2019s fully accessible by car.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a channel at high tide, deep enough for lobster boats to go back and forth, but at low tide there\u2019s a ledge bar that stretches across to the mainland,\u201d says Bruce Davis, a broker at Homes & Harbors. Any vehicle from a pickup truck to a smaller SUV can make the crossing via this natural causeway, which is exposed for four to five hours per day.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can drive across, get to the house, and unload your groceries without setting foot in a boat.\u201d Or buy lobsters straight from the dock, then slide into town when you realize you\u2019ve forgotten your butter. This solitary connectedness\u2013a dancing loneliness?\u2013 adds up to a real bonus once you realize the home\u2019s private septic tank, drilled well, and electrical systems can be easily maintained by mainland tradesmen.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis island\u2019s in a harbor, but there\u2019s a dramatic open-ocean view. You also get an intimate view of the working harbor, just a row away from a couple of restaurants and general stores on shore.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taxes $2,629; 3 acres.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

John\u2019s Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Bristol,<\/strong> $2,245,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Leave the fuel barrels at home\u2013but keep the flares on board for safety\u2013when you make your James-Bond getaway to this island, just off the coast of South Bristol. The property is complete with a mainland base with apartment, storage, and a dock where you can keep your Fairey Huntsman idling for the ultimate anytime retreat.<\/p>\n

John\u2019s Island has been host to 20th century legends. \u201cThe property was the home to 1920s boxing heavyweight champion Gene Tunney, \u201csays Joseph Sortwell, project manager for Landvest. \u201cAnd it was enjoyed by President John F. Kennedy while he was in office. The setting is classic, with an attractive six-bedroom residence and guesthouses surrounded by lawns and meadows with outstanding views.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taxes $16,866; 21+ acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

High Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Spruce Head,<\/strong> $1,975,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Here\u2019s a serene retreat for casual weekend bacchanalia. Abandoned stone foundations, a freshwater swimming quarry, and heirloom apple trees act as follies among the beautiful ruins. \u201cAlong with granite wharves, these distinct features scattered around the property are all a testament to the island\u2019s role in Maine\u2019s granite quarrying industry at the turn of the 20th century,\u201d says agent Joseph Sortwell.<\/p>\n

A mile of shorefront boasts a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding Muscle Ridge Archipelago between Penobscot Bay and Muscongus Bay. This property includes a mainland base with storage, parking, mooring, and dock access.<\/p>\n

Taxes $10,100; 26 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Green Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Brooklin, $850,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ever wanted to be a lighthouse keeper?\u00a0 This single-acre island off the coast of Brooklin in Blue Hill Bay is the epitome of island ownership. Your crisp white lighthouse stands at the tip of the island, marking the starting point of a string of islands off Flye Point.<\/p>\n

These days, lighthouses are completely automated, which means the new owners of this historic treasure can spend evenings on the spacious front porch enjoying the scenery with the included deck furniture. With solar electricity, bottled gas, wood heating stove, and private sewer and well, Green Island is a comfortable New England escape.<\/p>\n

While early lighthouse keepers suffered from solitude, easy motorboat access and four available bedrooms make it more convenient for guests to visit.<\/p>\n

Taxes $2,400; 1 acre<\/strong><\/p>\n

Campbell Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Deer Isle, $295,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Just off Blue Hill, Campbell Island has long stood as a nature preserve, popular with campers, kayakers and bird watchers. With 90 acres of stunning wildlife, the isle is currently owned by the Chewonki Foundation and maintained by Maine Island Trail Institute.<\/p>\n

While there are no buildings out here, nature lovers will enjoy the serenity. Two established campsites currently accommodate up to eight visitors. As a land trust, this property is best suited for an outdoorsy owner dedicated to maintaining its pristine natural setting.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is a conservation easement which allows a 400-square-foot house to be built as well as a few other buildings for animals if one wanted to farm,\u201d says agent Joe Sortwell. \u201cYou can also have a seasonal dock.\u201d<\/p>\n

This paradise is situated at the eastern entrance of Eggemoggin Reach and only \u201ca short boat trip away from Center Harbor\u201d and the renowned Brooklin Boatyard, and WoodenBoat<\/em> magazine\u2019s headquarters and boat school.<\/p>\n

Taxes $280; 90 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Scott Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Stonington,<\/strong> $495,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

A favorite among geologists, Scott Island sits east of Vinalhaven. \u201cScott has beautiful pink granite lining the island\u2019s shores, along with a couple of sandy beaches,\u201d says Joe Sortwell, who represents this and other island properties in the region. \u201cThe 360-degree views take in\u00a0 Stonington and the Deer Isle Thoroughfare to the north; Vinalhaven and North Haven to the west; Jericho Bay to the east; and south, toward Merchants Row, Isle au Haut\u00a0 and open ocean.\u201d<\/p>\n

While stunning views seem to be a given for any private island, this property attracts for being buildable but not currently developed. Historic pink granite piers provide the option of a deepwater dock to accompany a sheltered anchorage on its eastern shore. According to Vladi Private Islands, this property has a perfect site for a getaway cottage with the capacity for a two-bedroom septic system.<\/p>\n

Taxes $2,738; 4.4 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Middle Hardwood Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Jonesport,<\/strong> $750,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Way downeast, potential buyers will find Middle Hardwood, just off the coast of Jonesport. It\u2019s self-sufficient for summer use, featuring a solar plant, well, and septic. The new owners will only have to leave to pick up groceries.<\/p>\n

The island features a main bungalow with three bedrooms as well as two small cottages\u2013perfect for hosting relatives and in-laws who just couldn\u2019t take the hint when you moved to an island in the North Atlantic for the summer.<\/p>\n

All three buildings are connected by boardwalk and are, as broker Steve Shelton says, \u201cdone up first class.\u201d Built in 2007, the buildings blend architectural harmony with classic New England style. Middle Hardwood offers the charm of Martha\u2019s Vineyard without the paparazzi.<\/p>\n

Taxes $6,958; 8 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Norton Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Addison, $2,900,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

For the discerning buyer looking to go less Robinson Crusoe and more Richard Branson, Norton Island in the Sunrise County offers a contemporary twist on island living. A modern two-bedroom house with a stone fireplace, angular rooms and a solarium sits on 60 acres along with a secluded private guesthouse.<\/p>\n

The design of this island abode blends into the scenery with a wooden shingle exterior. Meadows, deep woods, and blue coves surround the residence. Continuing the nature-positive theme, the house is solar-powered, with its own well and septic system.<\/p>\n

Ashore, the property includes mainland real estate in South Addison with room to store vehicles as well as dock access. Unlike Branson\u2019s private paradise in the Virgin Islands, there\u2019s no helicopter pad on Norton Island. You\u2019ll have to settle for a Hinckley Yacht from Southwest Harbor, just up the bay.<\/p>\n

Taxes $16,990; 60 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Chance Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Machiasport, $600,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

With views of Machias Bay and the surrounding islands, Chance Island offers modern amenities in a private setting. The island is the site of two homes, built side-by-side, totaling six bedrooms and two baths.<\/p>\n

The larger is farmhouse style dwelling with a front-porch view of the ocean. The smaller is a modern two-story cottage with stunning picture windows and high ceilings in the front.<\/p>\n

With heat, hot water, generator hookup, and private well and septic, you find all the comforts of home with the privacy of living on an island. The modern upgrades make Chance Island perfect for a family\u2013keeping the kids comfortable while providing easy access to the great outdoors.<\/p>\n

The shoreline is as diverse as it is broad, with beaches, stone slopes, and cliffs. In addition, deep woods cover a significant portion of the island.<\/p>\n

Taxes $4,955; 44 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Poplar Knoll Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Mariaville, $199,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Located in Graham Lake in Mariaville, this large island property is home to the ultimate camp. With more than 31 acres of woods, privacy isn\u2019t hard to come by on Poplar Knoll. The expansive shoreline offers swimming, boating, and fishing all the way around.<\/p>\n

The main house is a rustic cabin with a cozy loft overlooking an open living room complete with cast-iron woodstove. A small bunkhouse is a great space for kids or guests and while there\u2019s no running water, an outhouse lends a healthy dose of authenticity to this camp.<\/p>\n

Powered by bottled gas, you\u2019re fully off the grid\u2013a premium spot to unplug and unwind.<\/p>\n

Taxes $1,318; 31.4 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Pop Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Steuben,<\/strong> $175,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

This undeveloped island in scenic Pinkham Bay is a little slice of heaven. Located just off the shore of Goods Point Circle in Steuben, the proximity to the mainland makes Pop one of the most convenient islands on our list.<\/p>\n

Deep water at the eastern end of the island provides the perfect spot for a dock. While there are currently no buildings, new owners can build the summer escape of their dreams with no restrictions.<\/p>\n

Pop Island combines the privacy of an island at just a stone\u2019s throw from the mainland. This island\u2019s position in a protected cove guarantees safe harbor without compromising a stunning backdrop. With gorgeous views up and down Pinkham Bay, Pop is an ideal retreat.<\/p>\n

Taxes $1,605; 2.8 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Scabby Island Chain<\/strong><\/p>\n

Machiasport, $748,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Why settle for one island when you can have three? Downeast Properties lists this miniature archipelago set in Machias Bay. All three islands connect at low tide, allowing future island-hoppers to trek across sand bars to visit each one during a day on the water. In total, the islands comprise 18 acres, with plenty of room to roam.<\/p>\n

A mile away onshore, the property includes a land base. Set on 10.5 acres of unspoiled downeast land, this accompanying property features a rustic, off-the-grid house that can easily be updated for an owner requiring a few more creature comforts.<\/p>\n

Taxes $6,576; 28.5 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Greer Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Vinalhaven, $550,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Choose your own adventure here. According to the listing website, greerisland.com, an existing 12-by-15-foot studio building is grandfathered into the property.<\/p>\n

Current owners have obtained a building permit for a 34-by-18-foot home with room for expansion. No septic system is currently in place, but the permits and designs are ready to go, so future owners can design the vacation home of their dreams without all the hassle of paperwork. Don\u2019t forget a wraparound porch. With 360-degree views of Penobscot Bay that include Saddleback Light, Camden Hills, and Isle Au Haut, you\u2019ll need room for a few Adirondack chairs.<\/p>\n

Taxes $2,250; 5 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Goose Islands<\/strong><\/p>\n

Addison, $565,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

This private paradise, carefully curated by the current owners, comprises a pair of islands. While it\u2019s currently available for rent at $1,750 per week, visitors may find it hard to leave.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s a custom-crafted cottage, embodying the essence of maritime Maine. Constructed with salvaged barn wood and ship\u2019s knees, the breathtaking wooden interior opens up along an entire wall to an impressive wraparound deck with a view of\u00a0 Moosabec Reach is hard to compete with.<\/p>\n

Current owners recommend sauntering down to the protected cove to gather fresh clams on the gravel beach. Carry your catch up through the pines to the cottage, put them on to steam, crack a beer, and relax.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s no wonder that the island\u2019s listing, with Gary Chard Properties states that \u201cthis property is seriously offered for sale at $565,000.\u201d<\/p>\n

Deeded parking on Beal\u2019s Island and an included lobster boat make access a breeze. The island features a granite mooring and an impenetrable wharf, built to hold up to the volatile high seas.<\/p>\n

Taxes $2,390; 2.9 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Narrows Island & Bar Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Harrington, $827,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

Double the islands; double the relaxation. Just off Ripley\u2019s Point in Harrison, this retreat offers options. For island owners who prefer the comforts of home, the cliff-side main cottage on Narrows features an open floor plan and brick fireplace with two bedrooms and a cozy front porch. If you\u2019d rather rough it, two beachfront cottages offer shelter off the grid. Either way, you can\u2019t go wrong with the view.<\/p>\n

At low tide, take a stroll across the exposed shoal to Bar Island, a smaller, arrowhead-shaped island. While the views are spectacular from either end of the property, Bar Island offers a sensory experience unparalleled by lesser-forested islands. Overgrown with spruce, this island abounds in\u00a0 two of Maine\u2019s finest scents\u2013pine and ocean breeze.<\/p>\n

This property comes complete with a .79-acre land base with floating dock and deepwater channel for boat access<\/p>\n

Taxes $7,614; 17.8 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Etta\u2019s Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Dover-Foxcroft, $479,500<\/strong><\/p>\n

Do you like to camp? Do your friends like to camp? Does your brother-in-law like to camp? Does that guy you met at racquetball like to camp? If so, buy this island and invite them all upta camp<\/em>, because you\u2019ll finally have room for all of your wilderness-loving friends.<\/p>\n

Etta\u2019s Island on Brann\u2019s Mill Pond in Dover-Foxcroft is four acres of pure, wild elbowroom. With two cabins, and outbuildings, and several campsites, this place, according to Mallett Real Estate, offers \u201cthe ultimate way to experience the natural beauty of Maine.\u201d<\/p>\n

The pond offers canoeing, swimming, and year-round fishing as well as up-close views of native critters. Etta\u2019s boasts beavers, eagles, otters, and loons, and is close enough to state and national parks that if you get tired of the scenery, there\u2019s plenty more nearby.<\/p>\n

Access is easy via a half-acre mainland plot with parking. A well-built raft and come-along allow owners and visitors to move people and supplies across the short span between the mainland and island.<\/p>\n

Taxes $1,299; 4 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Addison Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

South Addison, $3,250,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

If you hate grocery shopping, Addison Island may be just the island for you. Home to an abundance of native, wild food, this downeast Garden of Eden is a great place to sit back, relax, and eat your heart out.<\/p>\n

Visitors will find low-bush blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries growing around the property. Clams and mussels are a few shovels of sand away, giving new meaning to fresh seafood. Cook them all up in the enormous main house kitchen and enjoy your meal with a view of the surrounding Pleasant Bay.<\/p>\n

The 60-acre isle combines a range of environments, including pine forest, open fields, stone cliffs, and sandy beaches. Dock at the pier in the protected cove on the north end of the island and make your way up the floats to the main house. At around 3,000 square feet, this home boasts wooden interiors and an impressive floor-to-cathedral-ceiling stone fireplace open on two sides to keep everyone warm and toasty after stargazing on the terraced deck.<\/p>\n

Taxes $15,814; 60 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Foster Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Harrington, $1,650,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

This Downeast property offers a vast amount of land for new owners to enjoy. Foster Island, off the coast of Harrington in Washington County, is an enormous, wild tract of land. With a partial conservation easement on the land, this island is the perfect place for a devoted nature lover.<\/p>\n

\u201cFoster Island is unique in its scale and topography, which is quite diverse and includes streams, fields, high knolls, and a protected cove,\u201d says Mia Thompson, broker and owner of the Knowles Company. \u201cIt features several walking trails, abundant bird life, and an old homestead with a\u00a0 pier. The island also has the rare pleasure of being very private yet is only a\u00a0 short\u00a0boat ride from the mainland.\u201d<\/p>\n

With a cozy one-bedroom cottage, this secluded spot is a no-brainer for a potential island owner looking to get away from it all.<\/p>\n

Taxes $7,775; 300 acres<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ram Island<\/strong><\/p>\n

Machiasport, $325,000<\/strong><\/p>\n

On 16 acres of isolated wilderness in the heart of the Machias Bay, Ram Island is just an hour and a half voyage from Bar Harbor. \u201cIt\u2019s a great-sized island with beautiful open fields that sprawl across it,\u201d says Kim Corkran, the property\u2019s agent with Realty of Maine, who believes that the island\u2019s promise of retreat is its selling point. \u201cThe island rises to over 60 feet in height at one point and has several beaches. The family has owned it and has enjoyed it for many, many years. But it\u2019s time for it to move on to the next family.\u201d The buildable lot, with a 180-degree full ocean view, has served as a camping \u201cgetaway from regular life,\u201d complete with tent platforms and fire pits.<\/p>\n

Taxes $3,942; 16 acres\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summerguide 2015
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