Your guide to getting married on charming Peaks Island!
One of Southern Maine's most favourite islands, my family has been vacationing here for generations. The Island features several restaurants, close proximity to Portland, and regular, affordable ferry service year round.
A wedding on Peaks means a fun, Island experience without much hassle. All of Portland and beyond for sleeping accommodations, island rentals and easy transportation.
Give your guests an incredible experience complete with scenic boat ride through Casco Bay without all the tricky logistics of less trafficked islands. ( Read about other Maine Island Wedding Destinations here)
There are also wonderful photo spots throughout the island so make sure you have a wedding photographer who knows the island well, like me!
GETTING TO THE ISLAND:
The ferry runs back and forth from Portland in under 20 minutes and a very affordable rate.
Check out the Casco Bay Lines Schedule for details.
Water Taxi: Fogg's water taxi provides reliable transportations for various group sizes to get you on and off the island in-between ferries.
Give your guests the ultimate luxury experience with a cocktail sail around the harbor, or share your vows aboard before heading to the island for the reception.
Portland Schooner Company offers charters for various group sizes!
VENUES:
Casual Lobster bakes with lobster right off the boat. A view to die for! If you're looking for a low-key venue, reach out to our friends Katie and Tom directly to see if you can host your laid back party with them- just steps from the ferry.
Also just steps from the ferry, this venue offers all you need for an easy island event. Dress the space up or down for a laid back party or sophisticated soiree.With an outdoor, waterside ceremony site, reception and cocktail spot plus no need for island transportation- they've got you covered. One of the most popular and easy spots for you special day.
Rustic and fun: the perfect spot for casual fun with stunning water views. Greenwood gardens has both dining and dancing space with waterside ceremony spot too. Not too far off the beaten path either means getting guests over from the ferry won't be too difficult.
Just up the hill from the landing and the ferry is the elegant Inn on Peaks. Featuring sophisticated spaces including a beautiful tented lawn, you'll get all the conveniences of being close to the ferry with fine food and decor while minimising the challenges of moving guests about the island.
The club house is a waterside event space with stunning wrap around porch. My family and I have attended many events here through the years and the space is rustic yet can easily be dressed up. It's a members only club however they do offer up a select few dates for weddings in their shoulder season. You'll likely need to book a year in advance but they list their openings on the website.
My own family on the porch celebrating Nana's 100 Birthday:
5th Maine
Dreaming of a quiet affair with your nearest and dearest? Imagine overlooking the ocean on the covered front porch of the 5th Maine. You'll feel like you've traveled back in time! Indoor spot for your ceremony too should the weather not cooperate.
For events under 100.
You're set back a good ways from the ferry so transportation of guests will be something you'll need to plan for.
FLORISTS with Ties to Peaks:
Ashley Dyer over at Farmhouse Florals has been going back and forth to peaks for many years and will know exactly how to hand logistics. Check them out!
Yellow Twist: Colourful and fun and well traveled to Southern Maine Venues!
GETTING AROUND ON THE ISLAND:
Cars are welcome on the island and there are several car ferries that cross from Portland to the island. Tip: Plan well in advance to get your car in line in the summer- especially if you're going over on a popular "turn-over" day like Saturday or Sunday. Its not uncommon to completely miss the ferry because the line is too long to get your car on the boat.
Why would you need a car? You may need to get your hair and make-up team over to your vacation rental for example. You might want to pick up grandparents from a different boat, ect.
Be sure to reserve in advance- they sell out!
Keep active, take in the beauty of the island and have the perfect peaks island photo prop!
As a Maine Wedding Photographer specializing in weddings of under 150, intimate weddings, elopements, minamonies, and micro-weddings across the State of Maine, I'm here to document your wedding day in an unobtrusive, heartfelt way to maximize your ability to say present while capturing authentic, natural moments. Get in touch to discuss your plans!
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