Rangeley Region Lake Cruises & Kayaking was named Readers’ Choice Best BOAT CRUISE in Down East magazine’s annual poll of reader favorites, featured in the July issue. Thousands of Down East readers voted January through April for their statewide selections while editors went through a rigorous selection process of their own and Rangeley Region Lake Cruises & Kayaking was chosen as top in its category.

The annual “Best of Maine” Readers’ Awards provide Down East readers the opportunity to recognize their favorite Maine people, places and things around the state. Based solely on popular vote, the Readers’ Choice winners represent the best of Maine as identified by those who know Maine the best: the state’s residents and repeat visitors.

 

“Doreen and I are very excited to repeat as the BEST BOAT CRUISE business in all of Maine,” owner Kevin Sinnett stated. “Many of our guests are Down East Magazine readers and we truly appreciate the support we receive from all our wonderful passengers. The exciting thing is that this recognition has allowed us to expand our marketing reach beyond the Rangeley Region. As a small, family-owned, seasonal business we rely heavily on the support of the Rangeley Chamber of Commerce and local business partners, all who have been fantastic in promoting our business. After winning the same award last year we noted a significant increase in guests that came to Rangeley specifically for our cruises. It is rewarding to grow our business into an attraction popular enough to draw visitors to our beautiful Rangeley Region.”

Kathleen Fleury, Down East editor-in-chief, spoke of the selection process, saying, “Our readers love Maine for many different reasons, and the Readers’ Choice awards encourage them to show their support for the people and places that make the state so great. The selection process is one that everyone puts a lot of time and thought into – so it’s a true honor to be selected.” Fleury added, “We don’t consider this list to be definitive, we like to think of this as a work in progress. Every year we discover previously unknown spots on our travels and we receive tips from our readers for future consideration. This is all part of what makes this one of the most eagerly anticipated issues of the year, and one that is also the most fun for us to work on.”

Rangeley Region Lake Cruises & Kayaking is now in its 7^th summer of operation and offers exclusive “Classic Cruisin’ and Kreative Kayakin’ on Maine’s Rangeley Lakes.” They specialize in Scenic Lake Cruises, Private Charters, and “Premier Package” Cruises to select historical and educational sites on the Rangeley Lakes. The Oquossoc Lady, a 28-foot restored 1947 wood launch, offers a unique opportunity for passengers to glide around the lake while observing wildlife and learning the history of the Rangeley Region. The Gray Ghost, a 30-foot pontoon boat, is the largest commercial vessel on the Rangeley Lakes. Capable of carrying larger groups, it provides cruises on the beautiful Rangeley, Mooselookmeguntic, Cupsuptic and Richardson Lakes. The Gray Ghost also serves at the base for the popular “Mothership Kayak Excursions,” half-day paddle trips to remote locations on the Rangeley Lakes. More information on Rangeley Region Lake Cruises & Kayaking can be found on their web site: www.rangeleylakecruises.com or calling 207-670-8391.

The full list of “Best of Maine” winners appeared in the July issue of Down East, on newsstands June 23.