Maine is rich in Native American history and many of our landmarks still carry the original names given to them by members of the First Nations. Because we love learning about the history of our area, we dove into the archives of local experts like the Island Institute, the Maine Historical Society, and Bates College to research the original names of our beloved islands and boats.

Aucocisco—Migrating tribes often named things using unique wayfinding words—for example, the estuaries of Casco Bay are filled with a lot of bird life, so the Abenaki word “Aucocisco” meaning “a place of herons” is a fitting moniker for Casco Bay (and one of our boats). The bay was also called “Bahia de Cascos” or “Bay of Helmets” by Portuguese Explorer Estêvão Gomez who mapped the area in the early 1500s.

Bailey Island—The island was originally named “Newaggin” by local Abenaki tribes. The word means “swift current place,” a nod to the strong pull of the currents off the coast of Harpswell.

Chebeague Island—It may be hard to believe, but underground freshwater springs can be found running all over Chebeague Island. That’s probably why the Native Americans called the island “Chebeague” meaning “isle of many springs.”

Machigonne—A birds-eye view of Portland will show the land of the city jutting out into the sea. The Algonquian tribes who called the region home named it “Machigonne” meaning “great neck.”

Maquoit—The word “Maquoit” means “bear place” or “bear bay.” Maquoit Bay sits near the mouth of the Androscoggin and Kennebec Rivers, where salmon traditionally ran in great numbers, drawing bears to the region.

Wabanaki—In 1606, five of the region’s Native American tribes—the Abenaki, Penobscot, Mi’kmaq, Passamaquoddy, and Maliseet—united as the Wabanaki Confederacy. Members of the Wabanaki Confederacy lived all over Maine and Eastern Canada, which is the first place to see the sun rise each day. The word “Wabanaki” translates to “the people of the first light.” When we added the Wabanaki to our fleet back in 2014, students at Long Island Elementary school submitted the winning name for the vessel.

To learn more about this history of Casco Bay Lines, visit our history page.

The post What’s in a Name? Exploring the Heritage of Casco Bay. appeared first on Casco Bay Lines.

As the oldest running service of its kind, our Mailboat run not only delivers the mail and other goods to islanders, it offers landlubbers a glimpse at the realities of island life and the opportunity to adventure along Maine’s rugged coastline. And (hint hint) Father’s Day seems like the perfect opportunity to try this adventure on for size. Hat tip to our friends over at WJBQ: great minds think alike!

Here’s the deal. The Maquoit II typically makes the Mailboat Run every day (see most updated schedule here). Plan to arrive a little early and give yourself time to buy your ticket and watch our amazing crew work their magic, loading cargo, and readying the ninety three ton vessel for take-off.

Hopefully you’ve packed your sunscreen and your cooler – both will come in handy once you pick your spot on the deck. Of course, for those not as eager to face the elements, there is indoor seating. Once everyone’s settled, the boat’s captain will welcome you aboard as the crew drops the lines.

Portland’s true working waterfront will be on display, lobstermen hauling traps and cargo ships chugging in and out of the harbor, as you relax and leave your yardwork and the honey-do list behind.

The city fading into the background, now is the time to break into that cooler. With any luck, you’ll find some snacks and maybe a cold one for Dad from any one of Portland’s own breweries. Indulge as you watch the lobster buoys bob past and seals play in the wake.

This cruise stops at five islands to unload cargo: Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Long, Cliff, and Chebeague.

And for the history buff Dads out there. We see you. The Captain will point out some of Portland’s coolest historical landmarks including Ft. Gorges – a fort that never saw battle, but seems to still stand guard over the harbor—and Luckse Sound – where ships were sunk during WWII to keep enemy submarines out of the harbor. Wicked. Cool.

When the Maquoit II makes its final turn around at Cliff Island, you might find it hard to imagine heading back to reality. Maybe Dad wants to hop on the Sunset Run cruise and keep going. We wouldn’t blame him. There’s nothing better than adventure with family. Happy cruising!

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