Carting around
Island vehicles
Some islands in Maine prohibit cars completely. Peaks, on the other hand, is full island vehicles of all different flavors. When we moved here, I was frequently asked: How do you get around? Well, over the last year we’ve cobbled together a series of wheels to keep us mobile, both on- and off-island.
First, we have our mainland car. This is the workhorse of the fleet. A blue Volvo wagon with room for a car seat, groceries, and skis during the winter season. It sleeps on the mainland in a parking lot near Kellie’s office, which is about a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
Second, we keep a car on Peaks. Our on-island car is an old hand-me-down V70 with nearly 170,000 miles. Its job is to take our jolly crew to the ferry during the workweek. It shuttles us along an epic stretch of road along the backshore of the island each morning and evening. It is approximately one mile each way, so at this rate we’ll add a whooping 600 miles to the old beaut’ this year. While the V70 is road legal, many islanders prefer to let inspections slide and register their cars “For Island Use Only”. Island vehicles are numerous out here. If you’re a fan of classic cars, Peaks is your place. I’m particularly fond of an old-school Jeep “Woodie” Wagoneer that jaunts around the island as well as a light blue Volvo 240 held together with duct tape, string, and what appears to be a piece of driftwood.
Third, and perhaps the most fun, is our 20-year-old golf cart. These guys are ubiquitous on the island, many driven by renters and day trippers in the summer. The cart, referred to fondly as ‘Maddog’ – don’t ask – has seen better days. It requires a lot of coaxing to purr to life. Somehow it weathered this past Maine winter. Last November I wrapped her in a tarp and parked her on the side of the house. After her four-month hibernation I somehow got the ‘Maddog’ started. During the warmer months she serves as a second island vehicle, ideal for ferrying island visitors, taking quick runs to Sandy Beach, and transporting cold beers from Hannigan’s Island Market. If you come out to visit, I’ll be sure to fire her up – God willing – and take you for a spin.