Perched on the edge of the harbor and rich with maritime history, the Tugboat Inn stands as one of the most iconic Boothbay Harbor, Maine hotels. What began as a collection of historic waterfront buildings has evolved into a beloved destination that celebrates the region’s seafaring past while offering all the comforts of a modern coastal retreat!
The site where the Tugboat Inn now welcomes guests was once home to the Boothbay Boatel—later known as the Clipper Inn—before it was rebuilt in 1994. Over the years, neighboring structures each played their part in the town’s working waterfront.
The Wharf Building was once the Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club, the Tugboat Building served as Marine Service, and the Red Building began as Sawyer’s Chandlery before housing small shops. Each space holds stories of shipbuilders, sailors, and locals who shaped the harbor into the vibrant community it is today.
Today, these historic buildings have been transformed into deluxe waterfront accommodations featuring balconies, modern amenities, and sweeping harbor views! Want to experience them for yourself? Book now!
Perhaps the most distinctive part of the property’s story lies in its namesake: The Maine, a real tugboat built in 1917. This steam-powered vessel once worked along the New England coast before dropping anchor permanently in Boothbay Harbor.
In 1971, The Maine became home to the Tugboat Lounge. Over time, the space evolved—what was once the lower-level restaurant was transformed into guest rooms and a lounge in 1983, while a new dining room was built into the side of the tugboat itself.
Today, the Tugboat Restaurant continues to be a local favorite, offering classic Maine seafood like lobster, haddock, and its signature Lobster Bisque. Guests can also enjoy cocktails and harbor views from the Marina Lounge and the Rooftop Deck, which was added in 2019 and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Boothbay Harbor. View our menu!
Tugboat Restaurant View & Maine Lobster Roll with Salt & Vinegar Onion Rings
Under the care of Danny and Carla Lafayette, the Tugboat Inn remains a proud member of the Lafayette Hotels family. Open from May through December, the inn continues its tradition of warm hospitality, exceptional dining, and deep local roots—welcoming generations of visitors to experience the best of Boothbay Harbor.
If you’re searching for places to stay in Boothbay Harbor, Maine that offer both comfort and character, the Tugboat Inn is a destination like no other. With its one-of-a-kind waterfront setting and its genuine maritime heritage, every stay here connects guests to the heart of coastal Maine’s history.
Plan your next getaway at the Tugboat Inn, where the spirit of Boothbay Harbor lives on!