* The island is about nine nautical miles from South Freeport, two miles from Harpswell. You can only get there by boat. Moorings are available for personal watercraft. Companies that offer tours include Seacoast Tours of Freeport and Casco Bay Sights-n-Lights of Bailey Island.

* The island is a state historical site that is open from June through Labor Day, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

* This summer and possibly for 2022, the Peary house and museum is closed due to mold. Visitors are welcome to walk the building’s porches and look in the windows to see the early 1900s home and furnishings.

* The attraction of Eagle Island is nature and history: learning about Admiral Robert Peary and the island home he built; the boat ride to the island past Casco Bay’s islands, seals, shorebirds, and other coastal sights; picnicking and hiking the trails on the island.

* The trails will open in mid-July after shore bird nesting season ends. Check ahead of time to confirm the island trails are open. There are several trails to explore as well as two beaches. The trails are short.

* There is a welcome center and restrooms. The island is not accessible to the handicapped.

* Bring a lunch; no food or beverages are sold on the island. There are picnic tables offering ocean views.

* Island staff say the island doesn’t experience crowds. Thousands of people visit the island each year, but because it is only accessible by boat, visitors have plenty of space.

* For more information check out the Friends of Peary’s Eagle Island web page at www.pearyeagleisland.org/

* More information: Maine state parks information includes a list of transportation providers to the island, historic information, island rules and more.

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