On the water

Boating at 1BSI

Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats on Annabessacook Lake in Monmouth, Maine — near Winthrop.

Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats on Annabessacook Lake in Monmouth, Maine — near Winthrop.

Quick Answer: Boat access is simple: scan the QR code on the craft, follow the steps, and head out with a life vest.

Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats on Annabessacook Lake.

What boats are available?

Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and a pedal boat.

Do I need a life vest?

Yes. Life vests are required for all occupants.

Where do I launch from?

From the designated dock area after scanning the QR code.

Adventure welcome. Common sense required.

To use a boat, simply scan the QR code on the craft. It will guide you through checkout, return, and a few important safety bits (the lake insists).

Already on the water and need help? Scan the QR code again - it knows how to reach us.

Available boats: canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and one delightfully fun pedal boat.

Overnight Guests Paddling to the Island

If you are staying overnight and want to paddle out to the island, go for it. We are happy to ferry your luggage so you can enjoy the journey without wrestling coolers. Let us know ahead of time and we will coordinate.

Day Visitors Looking to Paddle

Up for a short lake adventure (up to 4 hours)? We have got you covered.

Find a boat on the rack and scan the QR code to check availability.

Rates:

  • $15 - Single-seat kayak or stand-up paddleboard
  • $25 - Canoe, tandem kayak, or pedal boat

How to keep this fun.

  • Lifejackets must be worn on all paddled watercraft.
  • Bring a cell phone with you.
  • No boating from dusk to dawn - boats must be out of the water.
  • Kids under 16 must paddle with an adult.
  • Stay out of restricted zones (southwest corner and north end of the lake).
  • By using a boat, you agree to all of the above (thank you!).

We are not here to spoil your fun - just to make sure your island story ends back on the island.

Thanks, The 1BSI Boating Safety Police

To use a boat, simply scan the QR code on the craft.

BLOWN AWAY!

It started innocently enough: a calm paddle, a curious guest, and a breeze that looked very harmless from the downwind side of the island. Somewhere between "I'll just go around that point" and "why is the island relocating," the wind formed strong opinions. The canoe drifted. The shoreline slid. The loons laughed. The guest paddled. The wind paddled harder.

The lake won that day - but the island had their back. One quick text, the Reset Crew launched, and a friendly tow arrived before panic could unpack. That night, the story grew by the fire, complete with hand gestures and one clear lesson: when you check out a boat, please allow "current location" when prompted - the island likes to keep tabs on its people for good reason.

Helpful Guides

Out on Annabessacook

Island life at 1 Big Sustainable Island
Island life at 1 Big Sustainable Island
Island life at 1 Big Sustainable Island
Island life at 1 Big Sustainable Island

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Pick a site and your dates — we'll ferry you over.

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