Today was spent traveling up the coast to Portland. We began our day just outside the border and our first stop was at the USS Albacore that we found on accident while detouring a closed bridge. It was such a neat submarine to tour, self guided by my trusty submariner, we were able to see almost everything on the boat. Nothing was closed off by glass except for the communications room and electrical. You could walk into the galley, officers quarters, maneuvering, engine room, open any cabinet to see what was behind, even tried out some bunks to see what sleeping in such a small space would feel like. Interestingly the submarine Anson worked on in Charleston was made about 5 years after this one so there were lots of similarities and he was able to explain in much more detail what it is he does and the mechanics of the boat.

Anson & the USS Albacore

Me trying out a bottom bunk.

Our next stop was the Cape Neddick ("Nubble") lighthouse, famous for one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine. The town around it was so busy with vacationers it took us twice as long to drive through it as it should have. What I don't understand about people here is the fact that is was 71 degrees outside and they were swimming!

Nubble Lighthouse (HDR)

After the lighthouse we drove through York, Kennebunkport, and Ongunquit stopping only for the large ammounts of vacationing trafic. I think we might have stopped to walk and see some of the cute local shops but parking in most places was a steep $12. Late this afternoon we arrived in Portland and went immediately to see the Cape Elizabeth Portland Head lighthouse before the sun set. What a gorgeous lighthouse!

Portland Head Lighthouse (HDR)

To end our day we had a lovely sit down dinner in downtown Portland at a local Indian restaurant, The TanDoor.