“Carefully attending to the wind and tide, we made a pleasant passage down the Kennebec to Popham, “outside” around to Reid State Park and up to Five Islands for lunch at the lobster wharf. Then on up the Sasanoa to Hockomock Bay…with a little gunk holing along the way, through the upper hell gate and on back to Bath…..Three wonderful hours on the water…Throughout, we never had to raise our voices to chat, never had to grab a stanchion for balance, wipe bow spray from our sunglasses, or risk a spilled drink. And every passenger seat was living-room comfortable.”
Fred Kahrl, The Coastal Journal, July 20, 2006
Last August our entire family, ranging in age from 2 to 62, had a most enjoyable experience on a four hour boat trip on the Kennebec River with Captain Ed Rice. The route was especially chosen to be of most interest to the children; Ed is not only a very good boatsman, but very knowledgeable about the river and the history of the areas that we passed by. We found the trip to be educational as well as lots of fun, and the perfect touch was ending with all the children, big and little, having the opportunity to jump off the stern of the boat, swim to the front and climb up a ladder - over and over again! It was an unqualified success!
Evelyn & Hugh D., Maine
What would we do without Ed and Marianne Rice? His boat has always been the highlight of our summer company's trips to Maine! You haven't seen Maine unless you've been on his boat. The views are breathtaking and unlike anything you would see on any coast in the U.S. My company always looks forward to seeing eagles, seals and lighthouses and is never disappointed. Ed and Marianne are great people with great senses-of-humor. They put everyone at ease at soon as they get on the boat and everyone leaves feeling they've known them all of their lives.
Pete and Beth, West Bath, Maine
In July of 2006 my husband and I were guests in Maine. We were lucky enough to have a tour on Ed's boat. We still are telling our friends down here in Sarasota about it. Ed made the trip very interesting with all his knowledge of the river and the sites we passed. We were really impressed with BIW and especially interested to hear how those huge ships were able to get through the turns of the river by the use of the lighthouses. Ed, himself, is a wonderful, fun person to spend a few hours with and quite entertaining. Sometime we hope to get back up that way and maybe explore another area with his expertise. Thanks again, Ed!
Jim and Nancy R., Sarasota, FL
I just wanted to personally thank you for our wonderful boat ride to the Five Islands and back. Us cousins must make this an annual event, as we enjoy the trip, and especially the captain and his knowledge of the area. Will try and send a photo of the group, including the captain, for your web site. Had a great time, and am already looking forward to the next one. Have a great summer.
Connie M.