Inn History
Captain Albert Vinal Nickels was a seafaring gent who claimed this spectacular waterfront parcel of land for his family. Completed in 1874, he and his wife of 14 years, Elizabeth McGilvery Nickels, raised their family of five here. The brood continued to expand with three more children born to the couple after they settled here.
While the family had no problem finding their sea legs (Elizabeth gave birth to two of the couple’s eight children while aboard their vessel), they were equally at home as landlubbers. As the decades passed, the property changed hands several times. One notable owner was Everett Hurd, who lived here from the 1950s until his death in 1975. Hurd played an instrumental role in the demise of the Brady Gang who wreaked havoc on a cross-country crime spree that ended with their apprehension in Bangor, Maine, in 1937.
Historical Seaside Sanctuary
This Maine B&B has earned its position on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the area’s most romantic hideaways featuring a cache of well-appointed rooms and suites with motifs and furnishings reflecting the inn’s splendid maritime history and various ports throughout the world.
Beyond this seaside sanctuary is an area ripe for exploration. Discover historic Downtown Belfast just nine minutes from the Inn brimming with shops and restaurants or embark on a Classic Maine Lobster Boat. Immerse yourself in Searsport’s rich history with a visit to the Penobscot Marine Museum where guests are educated on the families that settled in Searsport and grew it to the prominent port it is today.
Captain Nickels built this home as a place for all to enjoy. We continue to pay homage to his legacy by welcoming guests near and far for an unforgettable stay.
About The Innkeepers
We’re Melissa and Tony Cardine, and our story with Captain Nickels Inn began, in many ways, with blueberry picking. Long before we imagined ourselves as innkeepers on the coast of Maine, we were learning that the most meaningful moments in life are often the quietest ones — unhurried mornings, good food shared with people you love, and the simple joy of being fully present. That love for warmth, connection, and slowing down has shaped the way we live and the way we host.
After years of building full, rewarding lives and careers – in healthcare, business, and technology – we found ourselves longing for something different. We discovered Maine during a visit that changed everything. The salt air, the green landscape, and the gentle rhythm of coastal life felt like our nervous systems finally exhaled. What began as a vacation soon became a calling, and we returned again and again until we knew this was where our next chapter belonged.
When we first walked into Captain Nickels Inn – an 1874 sea captain’s home cherished for its historic charm, coastal setting, and restorative pace – it felt like an immediate yes. Lovingly restored with great care and craftsmanship, the inn beautifully balances its history with refined, modern comfort. We felt deeply grateful to inherit a home that had been so thoughtfully cared for, and we’re committed to honoring that legacy while creating guest experiences centered on unhurried escapes and warm, hands-on hospitality – inviting you to slow down, settle in, and savor Maine’s Midcoast in every season.
Today, our goal as innkeepers is simple: to offer a restorative escape where doing less feels luxurious. Slow mornings over a beautiful breakfast, quiet corners to read or reflect, evenings by the fire or overlooking Penobscot Bay – all delivered with our own hospitality that is warm, personal, and never intrusive. We love getting to know our guests, helping you plan a perfect day, and making sure your stay feels truly exceptional.
Captain Nickels Inn is a place for intentional downtime – the art of doing nothing, in the very best way. And yes, there will be blueberry buckle, because some traditions aren’t just recipes – they’re memories you can taste. We look forward to welcoming you, sharing this beautiful place with you, and helping you leave feeling better than when you arrived.
“Our goal is to honor the home’s heritage while delivering a quietly luxurious guest experience with slow mornings, thoughtfully prepared breakfasts, and unhurried hours by Penobscot Bay — along with personalized recommendations for guests who want to spend their days discovering the Midcoast.”
— Melissa & Tony Cardine
Waterfront Access
Maine’s mid-coast evokes an explorer spirit with dramatic coastlines soothed by the Atlantic Ocean. Majestic schooners and lighthouses beckon adventure. Coastal islands and peninsulas like fingers reach out begging to be explored. Located on the granite shores of Searsport, ME, Captain Nickels Inn welcomes guests in seaside elegance. Sprawling six-acres leads to a private waterfront with 180-degree views of Penobscot Bay. Let us be your Maine sea-scape.
Stroll down to the bay and relax in Adirondack chairs for panoramic views. Go treasure hunting for sea glass down on the rocky shore. Request a boxed lunch or charcuterie and enjoy picnic style perched on the cliff at sunset. Play horseshoes, croquet, or Bocce ball with the Atlantic as your backdrop. Guests are invited to bring canoes and kayaks to take advantage of our beach access. We do not offer watercraft rentals or training but we can assist with finding local rentals and guides.
Getting out on the water provides a whole new perspective of the area. Book one of our sailing packages to experience Maine the way it’s supposed to be experienced – from the sea! Cruise Penobscot Bay with a bottle of wine aboard the Cutter Owl or Schooner Olad.
A stunning historical building lovingly restored with beautiful shared spaces to sit and read, and grand updated bathrooms. The Innkeepers are exemplary: charming, warm and helpful. The creative breakfasts were generous and delicious. The six acres of lawn leading down to the sea are a priceless way to clear your mind and just unwind.
– Tracie H