Songo River Queen Takes Incognito Cruise on Long Lake in Naples
April 17th, 2009 categories: Sebago Lakes Region
I was driving over the causeway in Naples earlier this week and saw the strangest sight out on Long Lake. The ice had just gone out and there on the lake, probably a mile or two from the causeway, was this big black thing floating on the water. What could it be?
Stopping to have a look - I saw that it was moving! It was a beautiful early spring day - no fog or rain - visibility for scores of miles. I could see the top of snow-covered Mount Washington. The lake was blue and dappled with sunlight. I watched that thing, moving slowly against the horizon.
Then it hit me! That floating monolith was the Songo River Queen out for its maiden voyage. Every fall they basically shrink wrap “the Queen” in black plastic to protect it from the elements. For some reason, they hadn’t yet removed the plastic before taking her out on her initial cruise of the season. What a sight!
If you’ve never been out on “the Queen” you might want to give it a go the next time you’re up this way. The Songo River Queen is an authentic Mississippi River Stern Paddle Wheeler. It has an open deck on the second level for open air viewing and an enclosed deck below. It can accommodate up to 300 people, is wheelchair accessible, and provides one of the most relaxing and enjoyable rides you’ll ever want to take by boat.
Sometimes the cruise will take you out onto Long Lake and other times it will go down through Brandy Pond and the Songo River, then through the historic Songo Locks. Whichever way you go there’s plenty to look at whether it be the wide vistas while out on Long Lake or the shorefront homes as you cruise Brandy Pond and the Songo River.
If you come, though, don’t expect to see this big boxy floating thing all wrapped in black plastic. She will have shed her winter coat and will show herself in all her familiar glory - white paint trimmed in red, flags flying, and her stern wheel paddling.
Tom - MrLakefront
The Songo is the best boat ride in the state of Me. ( I’m serious). We would not miss it every summer..I am 72 yrs. old and it is the most relaxing thing I have ever done..It is just great!!!! It just makes you feel good….
Sincerely, Carol & Lionel Trask
Oakland, Me. 04963
lgtcjt@roadrunner.com