(9 Oct 07) We’d like to kick off the planning for the 2008 Rally.  For those that attended the 2005 Rally, 2008 will offer a chance to return to the marvelous midcoast region of Maine. 


The location, Hermit Island Campground at Point Small, is a large privately run campground on the very tip of Cape Small.  Hermit Island is about 25 minutes south of Bath and Bath is approximately 35 miles east of Portland. 

For anyone who has not previously sailed this rugged coast, this will be a totally new and exhilarating encounter.  We will enjoy the thrill of open sea sailing, the scenic grandeur of Maine's bold granite coast, and the opportunity to see what it's like sailing an area with large tides and occasional strong currents.    The rally dates are, August 9th, through Saturday, August 16th. 

In 2008 we will be hosting international Wayfarers, and so, as in 2004 when the International Rally was held at Killbear, there will be some extra planning involved and some opportunities for forging new friendships while camping and sailing together.

About the region. Hermit Island sits at the head of a 10-mile long peninsula (Cape Small) that juts far out into the cold, clear blue waters of the Gulf of Maine.  Though these waters are frigid, they abound with a multitude of sea creatures--sea birds, water fowl, seals, osprey, eagles and occasional families of dolphins or porpoises.  

Cape Small marks the eastern boundary of Casco Bay. Casco Bay is beautiful, full of interesting islands, and perfect for Wayfarer cruising. Upon rounding Small Point eastward, one encounters what is referred to as the midcoast region.  This is where two of Maine's largest rivers, the Kennebec and Sheepscot, meet the ocean.  It is a prime location for lobstering and fishing.  

The Bath area is steeped in history with many interesting sites worth seeing. There is no dearth of available rainy day activities.  One notable attraction is the world renowned Maine Maritime Museum in Bath.  In the 18th and early 19th century, this was the center of a booming ship building industry. Many large wooden ships, including some of the famous clippers and Grand Banks schooners, were being built along the banks of the Kennebec.  Today the Bath Ironworks produces many of the U. S. Navy ships.

About Hermit Island Campground.  This campground is unique and especially attractive in many ways. There is no other oceanside campground in this part of Maine so well suited for a Wayfarer rally.  Being situated right on Small Point, the campground's ocean overlooks offer particularly splendid vistas of Maine's magnificent bold coast.  There are 275 campsites.  Much of the campground is wooded, with the majority of campsites located in a wooded setting.  There are a limited number of sites situated on rocky bluffs with an ocean view and others that are close to the beaches on sandy meadows of thick, coarse high grass.  These are priced at a premium rate and are generally more exposed to the elements. 
There is an outstanding small boat harbor which includes a paved launch ramp, large dinghy float, and several moorings. Space at the float and moorings is free on a first come basis. Near the southern harbor entrance is a marina where slips can be rented.  The dinghy float and moorings should be able to accommodate many, but possibly not all, of the Wayfarers.  The other option is to anchor out.  (The tidal range is on the order of 8 to 10 feet.) Other Hermit Island amenities include a sizable camp store, restaurant, and rainy day recreational building.  For more complete details see www.hermitisland.com.   

About Reservations at Hermit Island for 2008   The owners of Hermit Island are proving to be great friends of the Wayfarer group.  They have agreed to set aside fourteen sites, East Tack Way 2 thru 6 and Branch 4 thru 10, 12 & 14.   We will only need to send in one letter to make the reservations, and in that letter, Dick will list attendees' names, site #, address and phone numbers, and indicate the number of adults at each site.  (click here for Registration Form)
* Hermit Island will bill directly the individuals we list and any subsequent changes and adjustments will be handled on a direct basis (the organizers don't need to get involved in schedule changes). Billing is 30 days following the reservation, no penalty for early departure. (click here for more detailed registration information)

These fourteen sites will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis. Photos of the reserved campsites can be viewed here. Late registrants will need to make their own site reservations using the standard Hermit Island process as described on their website. 

Campground Rules:  One car per site, no pets.  If more than one car is needed,  there is off site parking at the trailer park campground just outside the drive off the main highway leading to Hermit Island.  Cost is $5/day.

Marina:  For those who plan to dock at the marina they recommend making a slip reservation early (during the winter) - cost is $22/day.

Next steps  The first thing to be done is to check your calendars and block out the Rally dates (August 9-16) and let us know you intend to come to the rally by returning the registration form. Select three campsite choices from those shown.  We need to know by November 30th, and sooner is better than later.

Due to the remote location we have set a limit of six parties (couples/families) that we can accommodate. This is due to the relatively small NA contingent and the challenge of obtaining a sufficient amount of camping gear. Overseas registrations will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. If necessary, a waiting list will be established.

Registration information
Registration Form
Registration Form in PDF format
registrations received so far