Belfast Harbor Department

 - What does a Harbor Master do?

A Harbor Master is appointed by state law to oversee permitting of moorings and other structures in Maine State waters. A Harbor Master also oversees the general operation of the waters of the municipality in which they work. Often this entails knowing both federal and state law as well as the local municipal laws. The job usually also includes water search and rescue.

- Are you still setting moorings/how can I get a mooring/what do they cost?

The City of Belfast is still setting new moorings. A permit to set a mooring is required and is obtained through the Harbor Master’s Office. The permit currently costs $60.00 and is renewed annually. The mooring belongs to the individual setting it. This office has information on the businesses who set moorings if you are interested in an estimate. Moorings are required to be inspected every two years. 

- Do you have seasonal rentals (slips or moorings)/where can I rent for the season.

The City has both transient (overnight) moorings and slips for rent at the City Landing. If coming in on a vessel call the Harbor Master on VHF channel 16 or 9. You may also call the office ahead. The City also has a few seasonal slips for rent at Thompson’s Wharf. Currently there is a waiting list. If you are interested in being on the list contact the Harbor Master’s office. The City does not have seasonal moorings to rent. Contact Belfast Boatyard for this information - 207-338-5098.

- How many boats (moorings) are there?

As of the end of the season of 2005, there were 350 mooring permits issued.

- How is a mooring put together?

Our office has diagrams and information on the mooring standard requirements in the Harbor Ordinance. You may also download the mooring inspection form.

- What are the depths in the channel/dockside?

The channel has a 13’ depth at MLW. The City Landing is located at the edge of the channel and maintains this same depth.

- What is the largest vessel we can accommodate?

We have two face docks: one has 110’ and the other 120’ of uninterrupted space. Recently we were visited by a 128’ m/y.

- Where can I tie up my dinghy?

The City Landing has two designated areas for transient boaters. One area at the Landing itself and one off Heritage Park next to the Landing.

- What harbor/river is this? What is that land out there?

The Passagassawakeag river is the head of Belfast Harbor which lies in upper west Penobscot Bay. Our closest island neighbor which lies just outside the harbor is Islesboro.

- Where can we anchor?

Belfast does not yet have a designated anchorage area - but it is in the works. Currently boaters can anchor outside the mooring field. Anchoring ground is pretty good - deep silt and gravel - but we do have areas of ledge so check your chart or call the office if you have any doubts.

- How high are the tides?

Belfast Harbor has an average 10 ½’ tide.

- How’s the fishing?

Most of the fishing here in the harbor is for Atlantic Mackerel and Striped Bass. Occasionally bluefish, haddock, flounder, and pollock are caught, but usually further out. No license is required for saltwater fishing (not true for shellfish)  as long as the fish is not marketed. There are limits though, which change yearly, so be sure you check the regulations - especially for Striped Bass.