Wood Isl. Harbor near Biddeford Pool, Maine

[Cathy Monaghan]

Has anyone ever anchored south of Gooseberry Island (south of Wood Island and next to Wood Island Harbor)? I was wondering if it's a good option if Biddeford Pool and Wood Island Harbor are full. Obviously any weather from the east would make it a no go.

Cathy
CD32 Realization, #3
Rahway, NJ
Raritan Bay

[Bob Lascelles]

Hi Cathy,
I’ve never anchored south of Gooseberry Island, however I’ve had good luck getting a mooring on short notice with the Biddeford Pool Yacht Club, either in the Pool or in Wood Island Harbor. Another place to consider might be Richmond Island Harbor at Cape Elizabeth

All the best

Bob

[kerrydeare]

Has anyone ever anchored south of Gooseberry Island (south of Wood Island and next to Wood Island Harbor)? ...

I was in there many years ago. Scenic enough, and as you noted it's often impossible to get into the Pool or even find an open mooring in this area. However even without winds from the east quadrant there's usually a pretty good swell. If I recall most folks just use this area to get into and out of the other harbors and the Saco River. Locals seem to prefer north or south of Richmond Island, which provides some fine dinghy options.

[Ken Textor]

Cathy,

Yes, I have anchored there and it's too rolly for a comfortable overnight, even in settled weather. If, however, you have a fair tide for going up the Saco River, I'd encourage you to do so. Except on midsummer weekends, traffic isn't too bad and the scenery is downright bucolic. Halfway up is a good family marina and there are places where you can set a hook for a peaceful overnight. The head of navigation has pros and cons but really isn't a must-see. Good luck,

Ken

[Carl Thunberg]

South of Gooseberry Island? I went in there once by accident on my first approach to Wood Island Harbor. My recollection is the bottom is rocky with kelp. Another option is to anchor close to Stage Island (the island with the old stone day beacon). It's more or less out of the current, and almost no one anchors there. I'm always the only boat there. Look for the 5-foot spot on the chart, and stay just outside that spot. Did I just give away my secret spot?

[Cathy Monaghan]

Thanks everybody.