Unobstructed ocean views (right from the bed), few people, fresh-fresh lobster, cool plane ride, few people, beautiful silky sand beaches, sunrises, meandering walks and chats with interesting characters, "duck lessons" every morning in the cove, deep seclusion, and did I mention few people?
We were looking for something remote with an ocean view. What we got was that and so much more. We were prepared to sacrifice comfort to get remote AND ocean, but we did not need to at all.
The cabin was very clean, the bed was very comfortable, the views fantastic, the island amazing. The owner was SO helpful before we left, lots of good advice about how to get there, what to bring, what to expect, tidbits about things to do and what to look for. Our favorite time was just watching the baby ducks having lessons, checking the rock formation to gauge tides, and getting in touch with the REAL world. The faint sound of the harbor bell, the amazing sunrises, the incredible stars at night (no light pollution!), so soothing. And lobster right from the boat? How fresh is that?
Even though there is "nothing" on the island (groceries, restaurants, stores) we did not want for anything because the owner prepared us well. There is a bakery with great treats (the best part is the baker herself) and a little crafty shop with creative arts and crafts (check out the driftwood sculptures) where we also bought fresh-that-day lobster from The Fisherman. Everyone on the island was friendly, even the dogs. And Penobscot Air? Definitely take the plane in. The pilots were great, the woman running things was absolutely superb, and nothing beats the sight of the island from the air. Nothing.
Yes, it's not for everyone (that's you, high-maintenance people), since there is a (very clean and well-maintained) outhouse and Incinolet, but the scales tip so far to the other side that you hardly notice.
We are planning to come back in September for our anniversary, so we can get a feel for another Mantincus season: red dahlias, seals (?), and actually swimming in the ocean instead of wading. And apparently the stars are awesome then too.
The island itself was refreshing, the people all very friendly, the dogs loved us, and we could not get enough. I highly recommend both the island and this cottage in particular for anyone looking to catch their breath after any long ordeal. You will NOT be disappointed.