A Focus on Dan Stevens, Head Chef at Newagen Seaside Inn

 

 

            His goal is to be fresh. Farm-fresh and sea-fresh, that is. 

            Head chef Danny Stevens enjoys playing around with foods and gets a kick out of introducing new dishes to appreciative diners.  But what he especially loves about menu-designing and cooking for Newagen Seaside Inn guests is that he can talk to farmers or fishermen and have locally grown and harvested vegetables and seafood in hand and on the table the next day.

            “Freshness and farm-to-table is our emphasis,” says Stevens, adding that he can pick lettuce or other greens right from the Inn’s own gardens. Lobsters that are served one night were likely caught right off Southport Island that morning. 

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His Way, Her Way, Their Story - A Coastal Maine Wedding at Newagen Seaside Inn

 

 Amy and Kevin met on the softball field, playing for opposing teams.

“Amy was playing second base, and I hit a double and easily cruised into second,” says Kevin. “I tried to make a joke, but Amy’s team was losing at that point and she only scowled at me.  That’s how it started.”

At some point, Amy says she had a crush on Kevin and “he finally looked in my direction.”

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10 Off the Beaten Path Adventures in the Boothbay Region

                                    Courtesy of www.lighthouse.cc

1. Barrett Park, Lobster Cove Rd., Boothbay Harbor

2. Maine State Aquarium, McKown Point, Boothbay Harbor

3. Shipbuilders Park, School Street, East Boothbay

4. Town of Boothbay Walking Path, Grimes Cove, Ocean Point

5. Hendricks Head Beach Lighthouse, Beach Road, Southport

6. Seashell Museum at Dolphin Mini Golf, Hardwick Rd., Boothbay

7. Knickerbocker Lake Public Access, Barter's Island Rd., Boothbay

8. Porter Preserve, Kimballtown Rd, Boothbay

9. Ovens Mouth Preserve, Dover Rd. Extension, Boothbay

10. The Pine Room, Newagen Seaside Inn (sorry, for guests of the Inn only) 

For more information on these great adventures or to book your Maine vacation contact us today at 1-800-654.5242. Relaxation... Now taking reservations.

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Places to Stay in Boothbay Harbor - A Great Deal on the Maine Coast

 

 

Are you planning a trip to Boothbay Harbor this summer? Consider Newagen Seaside Inn located just minutes from Boothbay Harbor on scenic Southport Island. Book now, lock in a great deal and save 15% instantly off your stay. Click here for more information on rooms or call us at 1.800.654.5242. All stays include a full breakfast. 

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Authentic Maine Lobsterbake in Boothbay Harbor at Newagen Seaside Inn

 

 

Join us every Tuesday at 6PM this Summer for an authentic Maine Lobsterbake. That's right. A real Maine Lobsterbake. Lobster, clams, corn on the cob and potatoes, all steamed together in seaweed over the open fire. Savor the one-of-a-kind taste that can only come from the Maine shore. Bring friends and family. This feast provides memories that will last a lifetime. Join us for a unique Maine dining experience. The price is $30 for adults and $15 for children. Call us at 207-633-5242 to make reservations. Get crackin'! 

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Relaxation... Now taking Reservations - Great Deals on the Maine Coast

 

 

Take a much-deserved break from the tension of your everyday life at one of New England's most scenic destinations. Let the ocean breeze, farm fresh food in a casual coastal setting, and breathtaking views become your priority. 

For a limited time only, enjoy 15% off midweek or 25% off a two-night stay at Newagen Seaside Inn located just minutes from Boothbay Harbor on Southport Island. Visit us at www.newagenseasideinn.com to make reservations or for more information on great deals. 

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Boothbay Harbor Summer Season Update - Newagen Seaside Inn Off to a Warm Start

 

 After weeks of painting, planting and preparing, Newagen Seaside Inn has opened its doors and started off the bustling 2010 season with two weddings, a lobster bake and the Portland String Quartet spring workshop.  The early summer-like weather with clear blue skies provided an auspicious beginning and resonated in the cheerful faces of guests and staff alike.

Guests and neighbors are commenting on how nice the inn looks.  Spring storms took down a slew of trees on the inn property, which has opened up more space for grass and sunshine.  A vegetable garden has been planted for Chef Dan Stevens to use greens that are as fresh as can be.  Our garden expert Wendy has created a new rose garden by the pool and expanded other flower gardens so that they are teeming with color.  The inn, the pool and even the skiffs have all received new paint jobs and are sparkling.

New on staff this year are dining room manager Lucas and front desk staff Rebecca, Wendy, Robin and Brenton who join Lin and innkeeper Jason in helping guests feel welcome. 

This Thursday, June 3, the inn hosted the annual Southport Firemen’s dinner; the firemen served a four-course meal with a farm fresh focus. After a morning visit to the local farmers market, the culinary team walked away with fresh produce from Oyster Creek Mushrooms, Goranson Farm's Fresh Produce and Hahn's End Cheese. Guests raved about the beer battered fiddleheads, Statler chicken with a rhubarb jam and petite peanut butter chocolate tartlet to name a few.

Speaking of dinners, the dining room, in keeping with the inn’s ad campaign of “discover the state of unwind,” will turn to a dress code and atmosphere of coastal casual to promote relaxation and the state of unwind. One guest last week said she had entered the inn “all wound up” and within a few hours she reported being “unwound.”   As young folks say, that’s good stuff!

The first fireside chat will be stories of Burnt Island Light by Southport friend and lighthouse keeper actor Howard Wright on Wednesday, June 16 at 7 p.m. by the fire pit on the lawn, weather permitting.  Come relax by the bonfire and hear tales of life of a coastal keeper. 

For more information on Newagen Seaside Inn explore the State of Unwind online by clicking here. 

Author: Robin Beck, Guest Services Coordinator and Boothbay Harbor Blogger

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Things to do while in Boothbay Harbor - Pemaquid Point Lighthouse

 

Pemaquid Point, with its dramatic streaks of granite reaching to the sea, squeezed and shaped by massive movements thousands of years ago, would be a fascinating place to visit even without its pretty white lighthouse. The spot is one of the most visited attractions of the Maine coast, receiving more than 100,000 visitors each year. 

The picket fence, which is a work of art, is worth the trip alone. The light keeper's house is now a museum, and there is an art gallery at the park, but the best part of this trip is climbing around on the point itself, enjoying the spectacular scenery and taking the inevitable photo of the light reflected tidal pool. The Lighthouse is open in season from 9am to 5pm

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Things to do while in Boothbay Harbor - Farnsworth Museum

The Farnsworth Art Museum offers a nationally recognized collection of American art in its elegantly appointed galleries. Such great names in 18th and 19th-century American art history as Gilbert Stuart, Thomas Sully, Thomas Eakins, Eastman Johnson, Fitz Hugh Lane, Frank Benson, Childe Hassam, and Maurice Prendergast are represented in the museum's permanent collection entitled Maine In America.

The museum also houses the nation's second-largest collection of works by premier 20th-century sculptor Louise Nevelson and has opened four new galleries to showcase contemporary art. Its Wyeth Center exclusively features works of N.C., Andrew, and Jamie Wyeth - Americas first family of Art.

The Farnsworth also owns two other buildings open to the public. The Farnsworth Homestead, located behind the museum, offers a glimpse into the life of prosperous Victorians. A 25 minute drive away in th village of Cushing is the Olson  House, perhaps Maine's most famous home, which was immortalized in Andrew Wyeth's notes painting Christina's World. Ask at the museum for directions or information. 

The museum is open daily 10am to 5pm. 

16 Museum Street, Rockland, Maine

(207) 596-6457

www.farnsworthmuseum.org

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Whale Watching in Boothbay Harbor - Maine's Most Popular Attraction

 If you have been to Boothbay Harbor, you have no doubt seen or heard of Cap'n Fishes Whale Watch and Nature Cruises. Cap'n Fish and Whale Watching in Boothbay Harbor go together like... well, like Fish and Chips. The Fish Family are the originator of Whale Watching in Boothbay Harbor and have over 80 years of experience operating passenger vessels in the Boothbay Harbor Region. Combine that experience with some of the latest technology and that translates into high probability that you will see whales.. If no whales are spotted on a Cap'n Fish Whale Watch they offer a rain check good on any of their other cruises. Based on previous years records, it is unlikely that one would not see whales. 

For more information on Whale Watching and their other cruises visit them on the web at www.mainewhales.com. To begin planning your next Maine vacation, why not check out Newagen Seaside Inn, a member of Historic Hotels of America, located just minutes from Boothbay Harbor on scenic Southport Island.

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Historic Video of Newagen Seaside Inn & Boothbay Harbor from 1959

Last week was full of nostalgia. A former guest, Barbara Lugton, shared this incredible video of the Inn which features Newagen, Boothbay Harbor and one of our famous and very traditional Lobsterbakes. The footage is priceless. 

We also received this quote from a long time guest, Marijo Dougherty, "I just wanted to comment on how much I enjoyed seeing your website and the aerial view of Newagen. I spent each summer there in the 1950's as my parents rented 'Pine Cottage" each summer. My mother, Josephine Dougherty was a great friend of John Brooks..she called him "Brooksie"...and he loved it when she was staying there. He loved to take us out in his cabin cruiser. On Friday nights when the big lobster bake was held down on the rocks Brooksie would let us eat in the dining room...as my parents were not seafood fans...We were the only ones in the dining room! At that time Newagen was referred to by we teens as being for the "newlyweds and the nearly deads". I see that has changed...good for you."

Thank you to the Lugtons and Dougherty's for sharing some memories. 

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"The Snails Have Something to Tell You..." The Winning Engagement Story

Everyone's engagement story is unique and amazing and it was difficult for us to choose just one. At the heart of a good story is it's ability to live on even after the event has ended. In Susan and Chad's story they celebrate the moment and have a personal historic monument where they can revisit and celebrate. 

Here is their story....

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Online Contest: Your Amazing Engagement Story Please

 

Richard Bach said "True love stories never have endings." 

With Valentines Day only 11 days away and the wedding planning season in full swing, it seems like a good time to unveil a new online contest. We are inviting you to share with us your amazing, funny, romantic or surprising engagement story. Please submit a favorite photo of you and your spouse by Friday February 12 and limit the entry to 500 words or less. Send your inquiry to amazingstories2010@gmail.com. The winner will receive 2 nights including breakfast and dinner at Newagen Seaside Inn. Looking forward to hearing from you!

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Animoto: A 3 Minute Tour of Newagen Seaside Inn

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Fresh Snowfall at Newagen Seaside Inn

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December Weather on the Maine Coast - Incredible Surf at Newagen

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Top 15 Wedding Photos from 2009 - Maine Wedding Photography at its Finest

 

Craig Dilger Photography and Ramin Rahimian of The Marin Studio 
  
 

Reviewing the photos from 2009 has allowed me to reflect not only the weddings but the relationships forged through thousands of planning hours, phone calls, e-mails and meetings trudging through the frozen tundra at Newagen. I reflect back on this summer with great satisfaction knowing that our brides and grooms (and parents) reflected very positively on their experience at the Inn. Its been a good year and the photography below certainly reflects that!

Well over 30,000 wedding photos were taken at the Inn this summer by photographers such as Robert Mitchell, Brian Wedge, Michele Stapleton, Sharyn Peavey, Amy Root-Donle, Craig Dilger, The Marin Studio, Double Take Photography and Mia Santana from Bella Mia Foto to name a few.  Our original intent was to narrow the photos down to 10, but that was impossible. We've completed the very difficult task and narrowed it down to 15. Please visit our Facebook Page  to vote for your favorite. The winning photographer and couple will receive a 2 night gift certificate including breakfast and dinner.  Voting starts today and closes on January 4. If you have attended or participated in a wedding at Newagen please share your thoughts with us below. Enjoy! (CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO SEE A LARGER VIEW)

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An Epic Burn on a Historic Barn

A Tragic History of Fires at Newagen - The Burn of 1943

Raging fires and an old Inns rarely have a happy ending. In April of 1943 a fire struck Newagen Inn. The owner Joshua Loring Brooks surveyed the devastation and decided it was a total loss. The dynamic Mr. Brooks would not accept defeat and within three months the property had been rebuilt. 

Progress and Property Improvement - The Burn and After Burn of 2009 

On November 14 at 7 a.m. men and women from Southport, Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay and Edgecomb Fire Departments conducted a flawless controlled burn on our old barn. Also included in the exercise were Junior Fire Fighters. The strategic planning of "The Burn" was well thought out by Gerry Gamage, the Fire Chief from the Southport Fire Department. Chief Gamage commented, "A controlled burn and training exercise of this magnitude is very important. It allows us to develop a plan and see what a real fire at the Inn would be like." From our perspective It was a well coordinated effort! 

The building had most recently been used as a storage facility for maintenance equipment. In the 1930's and 40's the building was used as vehicle parking for those Inn guests that would spend the summer at the Inn. Future plans for the space include a vegetable garden and amenity/recreation space.    

For more information on Newagen Seaside Inn or Southport Island, please visit on the web by clicking here.

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A New Face in Boothbay Harbor - Chamber Launches New Website

 

There's a new face in town and we're rolling out the welcome wagon. The Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce has launched a new website which is designed with todays consumer in mind. The number of consumers BOOKING travel online has exceeded 60% according to a recent study, however the percentage of consumers RESEARCHING online is much higher. That's why its crucial for organizations to have a website that connects with todays consumer. Digital Peabody, a website design firm, says that 6 keys to a successful website are: intuitive navigation, fast loading pages, attractive colors, smart page layout,  browser compatibility and SEO friendly. To read the article in it's entirety visit "How to Make a Good Website - The Key Ingredients". 

For more information on Boothbay Harbor or your Maine vacation, consider Newagen Seaside Inn, a Historic Hotel of America. Newagen is located on 19 pristine oceanfront acres just minutes from Boothbay Harbor. 

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5 Reasons Why You and Elmo Would Like the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

This week marked the 40th Anniversary of Sesame Street, and there's no better time to connect with one of Sesame Street's most beloved and entertaining characters than right now. You may be thinking that Elmo has nothing to do with the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, but I would beg to differ. Take a look at Elmo with his sense of wonder, his curiosity, his desire to learn and of course his love of gardening. These would be satisfied at one of the region's most amazing attractions.  Take the time to read 5 Reasons Why You and Elmo Would Like the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. 

Children under 5 are free. Children 5 - 17 are $5.00. As you can see the prices are very family friendly.

Touch. Taste. Smell. Sound. Sight. The Lerner Garden of the Five Senses is a delightful experience surely to stimulate all your senses. 

Art at the Gardens.  As you drive in, walk through the visitors center or explore the gardens, you'll find a diverse display of fine art. 

Frozen Turkey Hunt. Not Big Bird's idea of fun but locals love this annual event where food and prizes are given away.

The Children's Garden. Scheduled to open in 2010, this garden will inspire children through a vast array of imaginative and creative displays. 

Considering visiting Boothbay Harbor? Check out Newagen Seaside Inn, a family friendly, Historic Hotel of America located on 19 pristine oceanfront acres just minutes from Boothbay Harbor.

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On Location with David Ryan: From Springfield, Ma to Southport, Me

The rainiest June in nearly 100 years was not the weather we had hoped for when David Ryan,, commercial and architechtural photographer from Springfield, Massachussetts, arrived at Newagen on Saturday. While this soggy setting would prove to be an insurmountable hurdle for most, David and his very capable assistant (and wife) Susan rolled with the punches and delivered extraordinary photographs through an impeccable eye for detail and artistry. 

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Things to do in Boothbay Harbor - Popham Beach

While Popham is not in Boothbay Harbor it is a very popular day trip destination for many who vacation in Boothbay Harbor. Popham Beach is one of the finest and longest sandy beaches in Maine. Located at the tip of Phippsburg peninsula near Bath, Popham Beach State Park is a popular spot for locals and visitors. There's plenty of beach to stretch out on, so even on the busiest summer days, you can find an uncrowded spot to call your own (although you may have difficulty finding parking).

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Victoria Magazine Features Newagen Seaside Inn

Victoria Magazine based out of Birmingham, Alabama recently featured Newagen Seaside Inn as a Seaside Haven in their "Inns We Love" section. They had this to say about the Inn: 

"Travel down a spruce-lined path infused with the ethereal fragance of evergreen mingled with the scent of brisk salt air, and you will arrive at the Newagen Seaside Inn, where guests have been welcomed to the coast of Maine for more than 60 years. With a rich history and a romantic atmosphere, the inn offers a refreshing respite. Meander through nature's magnficent trails, rejuvenate at the spa or simply unwind in the picturesque Adirondack chairs nestled in the sand." 

Victoria Magazine is publication from Hoffman Media LLC has 9 beautiful publications which are Southern Lady, Cooking with Paula Dean, Taste of the South, TeaTime, and Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade to name a few. 

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Things to do while in Boothbay Harbor - Pemaquid Point Lighthouse

Pemaquid Point, with its dramatic streaks of granite reaching to the sea, squeezed and shaped by massive movements thousands of years ago, would be a fascinating place to visit even without its pretty white lighthouse. The spot is one of the most visited attractions of the Maine coast, receiving more than 100,000 visitors each year.

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Amazing First Dance

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A Coastal Wedding in Boothbay Harbor at Newagen Seaside Inn

Ben Barrows and Filiz Soyak were joined in marriage at Newagen Seaside Inn in Southport Island on June 6, 2009 in the company of friends and family on a glorious Spring day. The very thoughtful ceremony took place on the event lawn with the rugged Maine coastline, surrounding islands and Atlantic ocean as their backdrop. It was even complete with a seaside serenade from their guests. Immediately following the ceremony the bride and groom escaped to the secluded and picturesque Sunset Rock for time to reflect and celebrate their vows. Their guests retreated to the freshwater pool for an assortment of passed and stationary hor d oeuvres. This is a very small glimpse into their beautiful day. 

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Things to do while in Boothbay Harbor - Farnsworth Art Museum & Wyeth Center

The Farnsworth Art Museum offers a nationally recognized collection of American art in its elegantly appointed galleries. Such great names in 18th- and 19th-century American art history at Gilbert Stuart, Thomas Sully, Thomas Eakins, Eastman Johnson, Fitz Hugh Lane, Frank Benson, Childe Hassam, and Maurice Pendergast are represented in the museum's permanent collection entitled Maine in America.

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Things to do in Boothbay Harbor - Maine State Aquarium

Located on the water in West Boothbay Harbor, the aquarium is operated by the Maine Department of Marine Resources. This educational facility was built in 1993 along with the state's new fisheries research station. The main gallery resembles the rocky coast of Maine. A collection of regional fish and invertebrates can be seen hidden within the granite-like cliffs. Interactive displays, including a shark touch tank and tide pool touch tank, encourage discovery learning. Other highlights include the 23 pound lobster and fascinating color morphs of lobsters in blue, calico, albino and half and half. You have to see them to believe them! Open 10am - 5pm

(207) 633-9542
www.maine.gov/dmr
194 McKown Point Road
Boothbay Harbor, Maine 04538

Directions: Exit the Newagen driveway and turn right onto Route 238. When that road ends, turn right across the Southport Bridge. At the four-way intersection, turn right onto McKown Point Road. Take this until it dead ends at the aquarium.

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Things to do while in Boothbay Harbor - Freeport, Maine

Freeport is a village rich with history, much of which is preserved for enjoyment today. Freeport was founded 1789 and folklore credits Freeport with being "the birthplace of Maine." It was in Freeport at Jameson Tavern that many meetings were held, where colonists debated a separation movement from Massachusetts. Historical points of interest include the Harrington House (1830), home of the Historical Society, housing exhibits and archives. The Pettengill Farm is a 19th century salt water farm where visitors and local people alike can find exhibits of 19th century coastal farm life. And of course the world famous LL Bean is located in the heart of Freeport. 

If you are traveling from Newagen Seaside Inn, take Route 27 south to Route 1 South through Wiscasset, Bath and Brunswick to 295 South and then take exit 22. Then turn right on Main Street/Blue Star Memorial Highway. The LL Bean Factory Store is located at 10 Depot Street, Freeport, Maine 04033.

If you are looking for a true Maine experience, visit Newagen Seaside Inn, located oceanfront on a beautiful 19 acre peninsula on Southport Island, just minutes from Boothbay Harbor.

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Things to do in Boothbay Harbor - Boothbay Railway Village

The Boothbay Railway Village is a non-profit organization that operates a narrow gauge coal fired steam train in a re-created historic village composed of locally significant historic structures. Additionally the museum exhibits one of the finest presentations of antique vehicles in New England.

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2 Simple Tips to Find the Perfect Place to Stay

Are you looking for the perfect place to stay? Chances are you won't be searching at your local library. Travel magazines and books are growing more dusty as the majority of young and mature consumers alike are taking their search to the internet for a great place to stay. There are a million and one ways to "skin the cat" but we have zeroed in on two simple tips that will make your vacation planning much easier.  

1) Broad search = Best rates and best options. A website like Sidestep.com or Kayak.com will allow you to search all flights, hotels, vacation packages, cars and deals available through the Big 3 (Orbitz, Expedia & Travelocity) as well as other affiliate sites like Bookit.com, Airlines and thousands of independent and chain hotels. If you haven't used this tool, now is a great time. 

2) Tap into travelers just like you. Assuming you have narrowed your search down to a specific location we recommend checking out Yelp.com or HotelChatter.com  for reviews from folks who have visited your location of interest. You can also find a travel forum through Frommers or Fodors which will give you the opportunity to poll people about their experiences. 

If you find any of these tips useful or have any secret travel tips, please feel free to share them with us. Good luck. 

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