This hotel is typical of the area; old style New England motel/hotel. We loved it.

We were fortunate to have one of the handicap room (although we didn't need it): two bathrooms: one with the sink exposed and the toilet and tub behind a door; the other a large room with sink, toilet and walk-in shower. Flat-screen TV, sliding door to 'patio'. Our room #102 was very convenient to the main building.

Second floor rooms are accessed via steps; no elevator. With a HC room, we were on the first floor.

Were on a bus tri with 60 people. We ALL enjoyed this property. Everyone was friendly and courteous. Had first night's dinner in the hotel and it was very good: three course meal; three had lobster,one had prime rib. The bus group 'staggered' in for dinner timewise. Breakfast buffet was perfect for a non-egg eater: fresh fruit, bagels, muffins (home made), coffee, tea, four juices, yogurt, scrambled eggs, sausage, hash, baked beans. A nice hearty start to the day.

Location: Great! Short walk to Catholic church on our side of the harbor; close to the pedestrian bridge to the other side of the harbor and 'town'. Nice selection of shops.

Tall-ships festival in the area. Saw the ships head into the next harbor over; they were scheduled to arrive in Boothbay Harbor the day we left. Navy amphibious ship anchored at mouth to harbor for festival. Fireworks that same evening.

Took the Cap'n Fish harbor tour (part of group activities) and totally enjoyed it.

Would my group stay at the Rocktide Inn again, YES, in a heart beat!


[Ate at the Fisherman's Wharf restaurant the second evening: not as good as Rocktide's restaurant: couldn't do prime rib to order, service was slow (but we did walk in as a 60-person group); staff seemed inexperienced (start of season?), had a ten-year old daughter 'volunteering' by filling water glasses.]

We have stayed at the Rocktide every time we are in Boothbay. The staff is very friendly, including the owners (an older husband and wife) who are often on premises. This hotel/Inn is mature in both staff and facilities. This is not a trendy / new-age location. It is established, quaint - but still teeming with life - and attractive. The lobby is adorned with old style wood furnishings and trim. The library, furnished with old ship models (hand built wood), is a wonderful place to sit and chat, read or just gaze into the fireplace in the cool morning or evening hours. The lounge and restaurant are furnished nicely and staffed appropriately. The view from both locations is fantastic! Not only do we love just sitting and watching the harbor from the bar while we're there, but love reminiscing about it months later too. There is an outdoor deck which is equally nice. The wait staff doesn't make it out there frequently so it is advisable to bring something with you from the bar.
The restaurant is reviewed separately on tripadvisor so I recommend looking there. I will say that while pricey, we had a great meal there.
Breakfast in the morning was great. The usual routine and various premade, buffet style foods - eggs, sausage, bacon, potatoes, muffins, donuts, assorted juices and coffee - and of course, the view.
Location-wise, it's hard to beat. Sure, you could stay in town at the Tugboat, but then getting in and out is a pain if you want to drive anywhere. The walking bridge is 100yards from the hotel and consequently very close to town. We would walk across multiple times day and night without hesitation. Plus, if you choose to drive somewhere nearby, getting in and out is a snap without having to deal with town traffic and parking.
The rooms, while meeting the needs of the casual guest, could use some updating. I know the suites have been updated and are very nice, but my experience is only with the regular rooms. Our rooms have always been clean, tidy and accommodating. They are pretty "yesterday" though, in terms of style. I can easily look past that. I know some people can't. It has the downeast charm that a chain doesn't have, regardless of the styling.
Overall, our stay has always been excellent. We create new memories every time we are there. We look forward to going again soon.

The Rocktide is perfectly located for views of beautiful sunsets. It is steps away from the pedestrian bridge which crosses the harbor to the village.

The lobby is wonderfully decorated. The staff is friendly and helpful. The morning breakfast is excellent! Don't miss it.

The rooms really need updating. Quiet and comfortable but very dated. My rooom had a musty smell.

The hotel room was filthy. There was black hair in the sink, the main complaint-- there was blood on the comforter that I put up to my face -- and I took a shower standing in 8 inches of water because the drain was not working-it was disgusting.
It is one thing to have a bad experience someplace, becasue I know stuff happens sometimes for whatever the reason. But what was most disturbing to me is that the Manager had no interest in talking to me personally about my experience. If this was my business (I am self employed, so I know), I would want to make the customer happy and to fix the problem the best way I could. This is how you maintain integrity and good customer service.