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Unique Waterfront Experience

Waterfront holiday home in Harpswell with balcony

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Maine's ONLY solar working waterfront!
Stay here and enjoy lobsters
Master bedroom
Living room into the kitchen area.
Lobster pound under the house.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8148.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
Harpswell, ME
  • Place, Casco Bay
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Ash Cove Pottery
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Bailey Island Bridge
    ‪33 min drive‬
  • Airport, Portland, ME (PWM-Portland Intl. Jetport)
    ‪78 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bed and 1 Double Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 4

1 Single Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Unique Waterfront Experience

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!

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Amenities

Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Parking available
Barbecue

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
Pets are allowed with a $100 pet fee.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
We rent Saturday to Saturday with a minimum of 6 nights.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Harpswell

Located in Harpswell, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Gulf of Maine and Brunswick Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit LL Bean Flagship Store and Maine Street. Ash Cove Pottery and Paddleworks are also worth visiting. Sailing, fishing and swimming offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling nearby.
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Map
Harpswell, ME

What's nearby

  • Casco Bay - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Ash Cove Pottery - 5 min drive - 2.9 km
  • Bailey Island Bridge - 33 min drive - 26.5 km
  • LL Bean Flagship Store - 50 min drive - 44.8 km
  • Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park - 60 min drive - 42.6 km

Getting around

  • Brunswick Station - 23 min drive
  • Portland, ME (PWM-Portland Intl. Jetport) - 57 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Dolphin Marina & Restaurant - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Cook's Lobster House - ‬28 min drive
  • ‪Erica's Seafood & Lobster Shop - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Slow Bell Cafe - ‬188 min drive
  • ‪Allen's Seafood - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Unique Waterfront Experience pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

What time is check-in at Unique Waterfront Experience?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Unique Waterfront Experience?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Unique Waterfront Experience located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is steps from Casco Bay and within 3 mi (5 km) of Ash Cove Pottery and Mitchell Field. Lower Goose Island is 2.9 mi (4.6 km) away.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 37 out of 41 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 41 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 41 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Edward R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Authentic look at the Lobster industry and beautiful views of the bay.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful perfect location . Amazing views . Captain Jim’s sunset cruise was amazing ! We highly recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Debbie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was a truly memorable and fantastic experience. The house was perfect for our large family and watching the lobster boats come and go was super cool. We loved our ride on the boat and especially the fireworks show. We took advantage of fresh lobsters and made good use of the lobster pot! Lots to explore on the islands and an overall perfect vacation. Definitely worthy of a repeat stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nicole S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What a gem!

Grateful to Sara and Jim for a wonderful stay at the Captain’ house. Great property
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chares T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Must Love Lobster

The experience was exactly as listed and the hosts were very helpful. Would go back for sure.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Angela T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Vacation

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!
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy H.

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.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Karen K., Mechanicsville, MD

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome experience

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!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Meroa Shepard B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Potts Harbor

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
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Eric T., Doylestown, PA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enjoyable Stay

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.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melena B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Riddik’s Lobster Stay

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
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Becky W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome family vacation

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!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sara T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing start to our Maine Trip!!

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!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Donald M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A fun and educational stay at the Lobster Pound

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.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katie U.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An authentic Maine experience

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!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan S., Clinton, CT

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Water View and Lobsters!

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.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stacy E H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very clean house and beautiful view

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!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Sharon F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing

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!
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2022

6/10 Okay

Robert D., Pittsburgh, PA

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness

Please Know What A Working Lobster Place Is Before You Book

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.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Beth G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome house and hosts
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Gretchen S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Donald M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place

Couldn't ask for better place to stay or family to rent from. We can't wait to go back. Highly recommend
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kim G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Sara Merryman

Host profile image
Hello,
My name is Jim Merryman. I have been hauling traps since the ripe ol' age of 8. I started with a rowing skiff, determined to make my own way. Now I'm a commercial fisherman with 800 traps and fish them year round. Lobsters are my life.
I don't just catch them. I deliver them to fine restaurants, markets, and customers who drop by the wharf. I believe in our product, Maine lobster, and strive to make it affordable to any and all who are interested.

Why they chose this property

I bought this property from a fishing family in 2010. It's protected location is ideal for the boats and the fishermen. I sold a covenant to the State of Maine protecting this property and forever keeping a commercial working waterfront. In doing so, I have helped preserve and protect a piece of the fishing industry for future generations.

What makes this property unique

The wharf came complete with a house that I didn't need. I decided to offer it as a vacation rental for anyone who wanted a real and unique Maine experience. By staying here you are witness to the lobster industry and all of the hard working people that make the industry successful. You have the opportunity to enjoy lobsters fresh off the boat while admiring the view from the deck.
We here at Potts Harbor Lobster and Reversing Falls have worked hard to make the house as comfortable as possible for a relaxing and enjoyable visit.
Come. Stay. Relax...Return.

Languages:

English

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