Good: The best thing I can say about this place is that it was novel. They have several buildings that are part of the inn, and we were at the very end of one that sticks out into the water. The view was really cool, and it was pretty quiet out there. Bad: The beds were horrible. Seriously, really bad. I'm usually not very picky about what I sleep on, but I woke up with a sore and cramping back. When I mentioned it at checkout, the response was, "Oh, haven't those been replaced yet? *checks some sort of list* I guess not." Not even an apology. The room was not in great repair, and really it was rather small, even considering the location. Oh, and their "continental breakfast" is the most pathetic thing I've ever seen. Overall: Just for the novelty, this place might be worthwhile for a single night. Possibly. After that, I'd recommend staying someplace not on the water that costs half as much and has decent rooms.
(2)
Janice T.
This place has a bit of an "old school" feel; however does have a beautiful view of the water. Typical dishes include lobster roll served with homemade bisque, steamed clams, lobster bisque, crabcakes, seafood pasta dishes, and sandwiches. They only had one beer on tap available, which happened to be Shipyard Ale, and I was okay with that. Decent service and decent food.
(3)
A Z.
Got the crab and spinach dip and they were both good. Cocktails were better, and they had live music out on their back deck which was nice. Plus it's a great photo opportunity, it looks like a tugboat!
(3)
Kevin W.
the tugboat inn is a really good spot to stay in the boothbay harbor area because its located within a short walk from downtown, its clean and comfortable, the employees go out of there way to make us feel at home, the housecleaning people do an excellent job and you can get a room with a unbelievable view of the harbor. What else do you need?
(3)
Katrina F.
My husband and I stayed here 2 nights, week of June 20th 2015. We did not eat at the tug boat inn restaurant this review is only for the HOTEL. price was $220 a night, king bed on end of dock with amazing views of the water. Lovely shared deck for coffee in the mornings. Bad. ...room is a very small and cramped space. Bathroom is tiny with a tiny shower. Bed is comfy with lots of pillows. Room was clean. TV in the room is huge compared to size of the room.
(4)
Scott M.
Mediocre overall. Seafood chowder was a best of meal 4+ stars, good thickness and chunkiness. Lobster roll was 3.5 stars, good but lacking a bit in seasoning and flavor. My lovely bride said she liked the apple walnut salad, but she certainly wasn't raving about it. Kid's pizza took FOREVER to come out but it was pretty big ... taste-wise, it wasn't much to get excited about, 3 stars. You can walk up a spiral staircase to "drive" the tugboat, which our toddler (boy) thought was just medium exciting. The spiral stairs are a bit sketchy/wobbly and once you get up there, the floor is quite slanted and could be disorienting for some. Toddler factor: They have high chairs and decent room for them in walkways. Lots of windows for a nice view of the harbor.
(3)
Obadiah S.
I was torn on offering the elusive fifth star, but I did for the Tugboat Restaurant. This review is only for the restaurant, I have never stayed in an overnight room. Every part of my meal was a highlight and included: - A very tasty bloody Mary. They make their mix in house, and it shows. It's tangy, with just enough heat, and I even detect a bit of pickled cucumber in it. It's a great drink for the price. - Seafood chowder. I've visited a number of restaurants in Boothbay Harbor and I've been a bit disappointed in the quality of the chowders here. There is some debate over the role of a roux in creating a chowder. If your chowder is potato based, perhaps it can do without. Sadly, the chowders to this point had been watery, and the fat was visibly separated from the liquid. The texture simply was not appetizing. Tugboat seems to get this. The chowder was thick and delicious, seasoned perfectly, and a bit of tang (maybe a spot of cheese in it). Right on the coast, the seafood is of impeccable quality. While my entire meal was delicious, the chowder is why I will definitely return here. My entree was the seafood platter, all deep fried. It's hard to screw up deep fried seafood, and the Tugboat Inn and Restaurant did an adequate job with it. I appreciated that the haddock, shrimp, and scallops were only lightly breaded. The seafood was still the star of the plate. I will say this platter is huge. Order it if you want a bit extra for later, or if you want to split a meal. Lastly, the waitstaff were absolutely charming. My server was very polite and attentive, I never wanted for anything. The decor inside is a bit dated, but I'm sure it suits the folks at the Tugboat Inn just fine. Over all, the Tugboat Inn and Restaurant provided me with a great experience, and I will surely visit again (and again) during my stay in Boothbay.
(5)
Ed B.
We were delighted by the great service, good food, view overlooking perfect pink sunset water in Boothbay Harbor at sunset tonight. After dinner we went down to hear Danny Beal sing and play piano in the packed lounge. They cooked both the fish and prime rib perfectly. We will be back next year if not sooner
(5)
Donald G.
My wife and I ate at the tugboat restaurant in Boothbay a few nights ago. Let's just say it was definitely one of the best restaurants and meals that we've had in quite a while the lobster bisque was the best I've tasted ever! I had the lobster pie my wife had a combination seafood dinner she also had the lobster bisque. But one of the standout things about the restaurant besides the food is a waiter extraordinaire named Connor if you get a chance to eat there ask for Connor to be your waiter you won't be disappointed. Their food and his service and friendly personality make for an exceptional evening in Boothbay at the tugboat Inn and restaurant. What more can I say two big fat thumbs up.
(5)
Joe C.
My wife and I have been coming here the last few years and we had a great time this year. We stayed in the hotel this year and it was very nice, the rooms were clean and well maintained. We had dinner here our first night and it was very good. Beautiful view of the harbor, great old-timey feel to the dining room. The lobster bisque was delicious, creamy and the lobster was excellent. I had the swordfish special which was good. My wife had the chicken teriyaki and she enjoyed it very much. For dessert we shared the brownie sundae which was excellent. The wait staff was very good too, attentive and friendly. After dinner we went down to the bar and enjoyed listening to Kay on piano, she played a wonderful selection of old standards and it made for a lovely evening. We'll be back.
(4)
Donald W.
I'm right on board with the other reviews. Pros: It's cool to have a room on a dock where all the yachts are moored and the smell of the sea. I slept well and first thing in the morning you can get some nice shots of the morning sun by the bay. It's right at Booth Bay Harbor so you wake up to the lobster boats chugging around the harbor. Some of the rooms are on a dock in the bay. The novelty of this has a cost of coarse. You park you car and never have to use it again because everything is there. We tried the restaurant a couple of times. The Fish Chowder was good. There's a few better places to dine but this place is good too. I'd try it again. Cons: We stayed there three times and each time the room looked as dated as the last one we were in. So no I didn't care for the rooms as much as the novelty of sleeping by the bay which I'm over now. All that kinda wears off after a day or two. For the price I would have liked something a bit more luxury hotel style. Future visits will be up the hill to Booth Bay Harbor. Really it isn't that long of a walk and there's also the shuttle. The hotel up there has more of what we're looking for now.
(3)
Kathy H.
Old school clientele and atmosphere. We didn't eat dinner, but we did have a couple of beers and dessert. Honestly, it was the best blueberry pie a la mode I have ever eaten. I walked over the next evening and ordered a piece to go! Don't miss the chance to try the pie.
(3)
Frequent T.
I stayed there one night in May 2011. Hotel was in great location but room was awful. Smelly, terribly outdated, and my bed had 6 or 7 suspicious looking short black hairs between the sheets. Ew.
(1)
Gregory B.
(Restaurant review only) The Tugboat Inn is old school in its decor and traditional in its menu - appealing qualities to those of us who return to Boothbay Harbor and the Tugboat Inn restaurant year after year. It's comforting to know that we can rely on Tugboat Inn for good food with great harbor views - it's like having dinner at an old friend's house on vacation. A perennial favorite of ours is the sauteed lobster in creamy butter (what they used to call on the menu the "lazyman's lobster). Lobster picked from the shell and prepared as simply as described, but exceptionally delicious. We look forward to enjoying this on our first night in Boothbay Harbor every year. The scallops or haddock Monhegan, as well as the seafood pie are also very good. The blueberry pie was thoroughly enjoyable. My one disappointment, however slight, is the limited beer selection. On the upside, Tugboat Inn offers several varieties from Maine-based Cellardoor Winery - I very much enjoyed and recommend the Zinfandel. They also offer take-home bottles for purchase.
(4)
Brian B.
Back for a great dinner! An amazing scallop special tonight!! The scallops melted like butter in your mouth!
(5)
Ross C.
Purposely went after the "it's noon so we must eat" crowd and had a very good experience. Menu has choices for most tastes - seafood fans and landlubbers. The delightful and not unattractive Anastasia was our excellent server. She was from Russia, you know.
(4)
Dorit B.
I have been visiting Boothbay for two years now with my boyfriend. Both times we've eaten at the Tugboat and have only had good experiences. This place is pleasantly decorated and its location is awesome. You can eat and enjoy the scenic water view from your table which is a plus in itself. The other plus is the food. Both times that I've come here I've had the Salmon and both times its been the best Salmon I've ever had! Definitely have to come back and try one of the fried fish dishes or lobster. Our waiter was also amazing- I believe his name was Conor. He was very attentive and made sure we had all that we needed. While eating, I also observed his interaction with the table behind us who had complained about one of their dishes. The way he handled it was very professional and kind. If any of the management sees this, give the kid a raise or a gold star- he was wonderful! We will definitely be coming back here
(5)
Fred P.
Nice views of the bay. We had the seafood Alfredo. Lots of lobster, shrimp and scallops. Staff were attentive and friendly. I'd go back!
(4)
Ken B.
September 6, 2013. Nice view. We went into the bar for a drink. We went downstairs which was like a dungeon so upstairs bar near dining room is where we had a drink. The lady bartender looked at us like we had a third eye. I asked about gin. Well we got this and that ....too many to tell you. Well that's not the case, I still don't know. Had dinner here last year but thought I would give the bar a shot for a drink. A smile and how you doing would be nice but it's not happening here. There are so many other choices on Booth Bay. We rent a house every year for 10 years so know the bars restaurants. Tug Boat is just not friendly....too bad.
(1)
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
Address :80 Commercial St
Boothbay Harbor, ME, 04538
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes
Scott S.
Good: The best thing I can say about this place is that it was novel. They have several buildings that are part of the inn, and we were at the very end of one that sticks out into the water. The view was really cool, and it was pretty quiet out there. Bad: The beds were horrible. Seriously, really bad. I'm usually not very picky about what I sleep on, but I woke up with a sore and cramping back. When I mentioned it at checkout, the response was, "Oh, haven't those been replaced yet? *checks some sort of list* I guess not." Not even an apology. The room was not in great repair, and really it was rather small, even considering the location. Oh, and their "continental breakfast" is the most pathetic thing I've ever seen. Overall: Just for the novelty, this place might be worthwhile for a single night. Possibly. After that, I'd recommend staying someplace not on the water that costs half as much and has decent rooms.
(2)Janice T.
This place has a bit of an "old school" feel; however does have a beautiful view of the water. Typical dishes include lobster roll served with homemade bisque, steamed clams, lobster bisque, crabcakes, seafood pasta dishes, and sandwiches. They only had one beer on tap available, which happened to be Shipyard Ale, and I was okay with that. Decent service and decent food.
(3)A Z.
Got the crab and spinach dip and they were both good. Cocktails were better, and they had live music out on their back deck which was nice. Plus it's a great photo opportunity, it looks like a tugboat!
(3)Kevin W.
the tugboat inn is a really good spot to stay in the boothbay harbor area because its located within a short walk from downtown, its clean and comfortable, the employees go out of there way to make us feel at home, the housecleaning people do an excellent job and you can get a room with a unbelievable view of the harbor. What else do you need?
(3)Katrina F.
My husband and I stayed here 2 nights, week of June 20th 2015. We did not eat at the tug boat inn restaurant this review is only for the HOTEL. price was $220 a night, king bed on end of dock with amazing views of the water. Lovely shared deck for coffee in the mornings. Bad. ...room is a very small and cramped space. Bathroom is tiny with a tiny shower. Bed is comfy with lots of pillows. Room was clean. TV in the room is huge compared to size of the room.
(4)Scott M.
Mediocre overall. Seafood chowder was a best of meal 4+ stars, good thickness and chunkiness. Lobster roll was 3.5 stars, good but lacking a bit in seasoning and flavor. My lovely bride said she liked the apple walnut salad, but she certainly wasn't raving about it. Kid's pizza took FOREVER to come out but it was pretty big ... taste-wise, it wasn't much to get excited about, 3 stars. You can walk up a spiral staircase to "drive" the tugboat, which our toddler (boy) thought was just medium exciting. The spiral stairs are a bit sketchy/wobbly and once you get up there, the floor is quite slanted and could be disorienting for some. Toddler factor: They have high chairs and decent room for them in walkways. Lots of windows for a nice view of the harbor.
(3)Obadiah S.
I was torn on offering the elusive fifth star, but I did for the Tugboat Restaurant. This review is only for the restaurant, I have never stayed in an overnight room. Every part of my meal was a highlight and included: - A very tasty bloody Mary. They make their mix in house, and it shows. It's tangy, with just enough heat, and I even detect a bit of pickled cucumber in it. It's a great drink for the price. - Seafood chowder. I've visited a number of restaurants in Boothbay Harbor and I've been a bit disappointed in the quality of the chowders here. There is some debate over the role of a roux in creating a chowder. If your chowder is potato based, perhaps it can do without. Sadly, the chowders to this point had been watery, and the fat was visibly separated from the liquid. The texture simply was not appetizing. Tugboat seems to get this. The chowder was thick and delicious, seasoned perfectly, and a bit of tang (maybe a spot of cheese in it). Right on the coast, the seafood is of impeccable quality. While my entire meal was delicious, the chowder is why I will definitely return here. My entree was the seafood platter, all deep fried. It's hard to screw up deep fried seafood, and the Tugboat Inn and Restaurant did an adequate job with it. I appreciated that the haddock, shrimp, and scallops were only lightly breaded. The seafood was still the star of the plate. I will say this platter is huge. Order it if you want a bit extra for later, or if you want to split a meal. Lastly, the waitstaff were absolutely charming. My server was very polite and attentive, I never wanted for anything. The decor inside is a bit dated, but I'm sure it suits the folks at the Tugboat Inn just fine. Over all, the Tugboat Inn and Restaurant provided me with a great experience, and I will surely visit again (and again) during my stay in Boothbay.
(5)Ed B.
We were delighted by the great service, good food, view overlooking perfect pink sunset water in Boothbay Harbor at sunset tonight. After dinner we went down to hear Danny Beal sing and play piano in the packed lounge. They cooked both the fish and prime rib perfectly. We will be back next year if not sooner
(5)Donald G.
My wife and I ate at the tugboat restaurant in Boothbay a few nights ago. Let's just say it was definitely one of the best restaurants and meals that we've had in quite a while the lobster bisque was the best I've tasted ever! I had the lobster pie my wife had a combination seafood dinner she also had the lobster bisque. But one of the standout things about the restaurant besides the food is a waiter extraordinaire named Connor if you get a chance to eat there ask for Connor to be your waiter you won't be disappointed. Their food and his service and friendly personality make for an exceptional evening in Boothbay at the tugboat Inn and restaurant. What more can I say two big fat thumbs up.
(5)Joe C.
My wife and I have been coming here the last few years and we had a great time this year. We stayed in the hotel this year and it was very nice, the rooms were clean and well maintained. We had dinner here our first night and it was very good. Beautiful view of the harbor, great old-timey feel to the dining room. The lobster bisque was delicious, creamy and the lobster was excellent. I had the swordfish special which was good. My wife had the chicken teriyaki and she enjoyed it very much. For dessert we shared the brownie sundae which was excellent. The wait staff was very good too, attentive and friendly. After dinner we went down to the bar and enjoyed listening to Kay on piano, she played a wonderful selection of old standards and it made for a lovely evening. We'll be back.
(4)Donald W.
I'm right on board with the other reviews. Pros: It's cool to have a room on a dock where all the yachts are moored and the smell of the sea. I slept well and first thing in the morning you can get some nice shots of the morning sun by the bay. It's right at Booth Bay Harbor so you wake up to the lobster boats chugging around the harbor. Some of the rooms are on a dock in the bay. The novelty of this has a cost of coarse. You park you car and never have to use it again because everything is there. We tried the restaurant a couple of times. The Fish Chowder was good. There's a few better places to dine but this place is good too. I'd try it again. Cons: We stayed there three times and each time the room looked as dated as the last one we were in. So no I didn't care for the rooms as much as the novelty of sleeping by the bay which I'm over now. All that kinda wears off after a day or two. For the price I would have liked something a bit more luxury hotel style. Future visits will be up the hill to Booth Bay Harbor. Really it isn't that long of a walk and there's also the shuttle. The hotel up there has more of what we're looking for now.
(3)Kathy H.
Old school clientele and atmosphere. We didn't eat dinner, but we did have a couple of beers and dessert. Honestly, it was the best blueberry pie a la mode I have ever eaten. I walked over the next evening and ordered a piece to go! Don't miss the chance to try the pie.
(3)Frequent T.
I stayed there one night in May 2011. Hotel was in great location but room was awful. Smelly, terribly outdated, and my bed had 6 or 7 suspicious looking short black hairs between the sheets. Ew.
(1)Gregory B.
(Restaurant review only) The Tugboat Inn is old school in its decor and traditional in its menu - appealing qualities to those of us who return to Boothbay Harbor and the Tugboat Inn restaurant year after year. It's comforting to know that we can rely on Tugboat Inn for good food with great harbor views - it's like having dinner at an old friend's house on vacation. A perennial favorite of ours is the sauteed lobster in creamy butter (what they used to call on the menu the "lazyman's lobster). Lobster picked from the shell and prepared as simply as described, but exceptionally delicious. We look forward to enjoying this on our first night in Boothbay Harbor every year. The scallops or haddock Monhegan, as well as the seafood pie are also very good. The blueberry pie was thoroughly enjoyable. My one disappointment, however slight, is the limited beer selection. On the upside, Tugboat Inn offers several varieties from Maine-based Cellardoor Winery - I very much enjoyed and recommend the Zinfandel. They also offer take-home bottles for purchase.
(4)Brian B.
Back for a great dinner! An amazing scallop special tonight!! The scallops melted like butter in your mouth!
(5)Ross C.
Purposely went after the "it's noon so we must eat" crowd and had a very good experience. Menu has choices for most tastes - seafood fans and landlubbers. The delightful and not unattractive Anastasia was our excellent server. She was from Russia, you know.
(4)Dorit B.
I have been visiting Boothbay for two years now with my boyfriend. Both times we've eaten at the Tugboat and have only had good experiences. This place is pleasantly decorated and its location is awesome. You can eat and enjoy the scenic water view from your table which is a plus in itself. The other plus is the food. Both times that I've come here I've had the Salmon and both times its been the best Salmon I've ever had! Definitely have to come back and try one of the fried fish dishes or lobster. Our waiter was also amazing- I believe his name was Conor. He was very attentive and made sure we had all that we needed. While eating, I also observed his interaction with the table behind us who had complained about one of their dishes. The way he handled it was very professional and kind. If any of the management sees this, give the kid a raise or a gold star- he was wonderful! We will definitely be coming back here
(5)Fred P.
Nice views of the bay. We had the seafood Alfredo. Lots of lobster, shrimp and scallops. Staff were attentive and friendly. I'd go back!
(4)Ken B.
September 6, 2013. Nice view. We went into the bar for a drink. We went downstairs which was like a dungeon so upstairs bar near dining room is where we had a drink. The lady bartender looked at us like we had a third eye. I asked about gin. Well we got this and that ....too many to tell you. Well that's not the case, I still don't know. Had dinner here last year but thought I would give the bar a shot for a drink. A smile and how you doing would be nice but it's not happening here. There are so many other choices on Booth Bay. We rent a house every year for 10 years so know the bars restaurants. Tug Boat is just not friendly....too bad.
(1)