Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Boothbay Harbor's nearly 100 miles of rugged coastline have long shaped Maine's maritime identity, from historic lighthouses to modern shipbuilding.
Douglas Goldhirsch has spent more than two decades navigating the region's deep-water harbor, now sharing its history and scenery through sailing tours.
"Everything seems picturesque here, no matter how far you get out," Goldhirsch said.
One of his favorite destinations is Burnt Island Light, where he serves as president of Keepers of the Light, the nonprofit that partners with the state to preserve the historic lighthouse.
Built in 1821, Burnt Island Light is the oldest original lighthouse structure in Maine. Once an active light station, it was automated in 1988 and has since been restored as a living history museum, welcoming visitors and school groups to learn about the region's maritime and natural history.
Seasonal keepers now live on the island each summer, maintaining the grounds and historic buildings. For Danielle Oaks, an environmental studies graduate from Illinois, the opportunity has been unforgettable.
"This is the happiest I have ever been," Oaks said. "It's surreal."
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Boothbay Harbor's nearly 100 miles of rugged coastline have long shaped Maine's maritime identity, from historic lighthouses to modern shipbuilding.
Douglas Goldhirsch has spent more than two decades navigating the region's deep-water harbor, now sharing its history and scenery through sailing tours.
"Everything seems picturesque here, no matter how far you get out," Goldhirsch said.
One of his favorite destinations is Burnt Island Light, where he serves as president of Keepers of the Light, the nonprofit that partners with the state to preserve the historic lighthouse.
Built in 1821, Burnt Island Light is the oldest original lighthouse structure in Maine. Once an active light station, it was automated in 1988 and has since been restored as a living history museum, welcoming visitors and school groups to learn about the region's maritime and natural history.
Seasonal keepers now live on the island each summer, maintaining the grounds and historic buildings. For Danielle Oaks, an environmental studies graduate from Illinois, the opportunity has been unforgettable.
"This is the happiest I have ever been," Oaks said. "It's surreal."
WCVB is your home for Massachusetts breaking news and weather. For your latest Massachusetts news and weather visit: wcvb.com
For licensing inquiries: wcvb.com/licensing
