Lilly B Explained

The Lilly B is a ferry owned by Bustins Island, Maine, United States. It runs several times daily between South Freeport and Bustins Island from Memorial Day to Columbus Day.^[1] It is named for Lilly May Brewer (1906–1977), who, along with her husband Ralph (1900–1968), was the caretaker of Bustins during the 1950s and 1960s.^[2]

The vessel was designed by naval architect Al Spalding and built by Bradley Simmons. Its maiden voyage took place on April 22, 2000.

The ferry has a capacity of 44 passengers, and it is not permitted to carry propane or gasoline as baggage.

The ferry is staffed largely by islanders, and its passengers are almost all its residents. As of 2022, its captain is Painter Soule,^[3] who was formerly a member of the crew.^[4] Archie Ross formerly captained the ferry for over fifty years,^[5] and the island's public landing is now named for him.

Schedule

In the high season (mid-June to early September), the Lilly B runs four round-trips daily on weekdays and once on weekends. A late 7.00 PM (inbound) and 7.30 PM (outbound) service runs on Fridays only.

In the off season (late May to mid-June), the ferry runs twice on Tuesdays, three times on Fridays and Saturdays, and four times on Sundays.

Additional runs occur on Memorial Day and Columbus Day.

Notes and References

1. Web site: 2011-07-19 . Photo: Savoring the view . 2022-07-31 . Press Herald.
2. http://www.bivc.net/docs/Other/O%20-%202011%20BI%20Owners%20and%20Renters%20Guide.pdf An Owner's and Renter's Guide to Bustins Island, Summer 2011
3. http://www.bivc.net/docs/Seasonal/Ferry%20Schedule.pdf 2022 Bustins Island Ferry: Schedule and Fares
4. Web site: 2016-10-03 . The Life Aquatic Freeport, Maine Maine Home+Design . 2022-07-31 . Maine Home + Design . en-US.
5. Web site: Journal . Max MogensenSpecial to the Sun . 2019-08-11 . Bustins: A very friendly island 'somewhere in the middle' . 2022-07-31 . Lewiston Sun Journal.