Eastport Mermaid Statue

The Eastport Mermaid Statue, officially named Nerida, was sculpted by local artist Richard Klyver. The idea originated in 2009 with plans for sea creature sculptures, but private donors offered to finance a mermaid instead. Klyver worked on it for five years, from 2012 to 2015, using a meticulous "lost wax" technique. It was unveiled on August 1, 2015, coinciding with Eastport's first annual "Bay Day" festival.

Yes, the Eastport Mermaid Statue is located in a flat, urban area right on the harborfront and is considered wheelchair accessible. Visitors can easily approach and view the statue.

The statue itself is a prominent feature on the Eastport harborfront, offering picturesque views from various angles along Water Street. Many visitors find excellent photo opportunities directly from the waterfront promenade, capturing the mermaid with the harbor and surrounding maritime scenery in the background. Experiment with different times of day for varied lighting.

Beyond admiring the statue, families can enjoy leisurely walks along the Eastport waterfront, exploring the historic downtown area with its unique shops and architecture. Eastport is known for its deep water and significant tidal changes, which can be interesting to observe. The statue's unveiling coincided with the first annual "Bay Day," a sea mythology-themed festival, suggesting the town often has family-friendly events, especially in warmer months.

The Eastport Mermaid Statue is located in a public, outdoor area, so dogs on leashes are generally welcome. For nearby trails, such as those at Shackford Head State Park, it's advisable to check specific park regulations regarding dogs, but many state parks in Maine allow leashed dogs.

Yes, the Eastport Mermaid Statue is situated in the heart of Eastport's downtown area. You'll find several cafes, pubs, and restaurants within easy walking distance along Water Street and the surrounding blocks, offering various dining options from casual bites to seafood specialties.

While the statue itself is a modern addition (2015), it beautifully complements Eastport's rich maritime heritage. Eastport is a historic port city on Moose Island, known for its deep water and significant tidal changes. The mermaid, a figure of sea mythology, enhances the town's artistic and aesthetic appeal, connecting to the local culture and the community's strong ties to the ocean.

The Eastport Mermaid Statue is located on the harborfront in downtown Eastport, Maine. If driving, you can reach Eastport via Route 190. Once in downtown, the statue is easily accessible on foot. Parking is generally available in the surrounding downtown streets or nearby public lots.

Eastport, being a smaller, remote city in Maine, has limited public transportation options. Most visitors arrive by car. However, local taxi services or regional bus connections to larger towns might be available, though direct public transport to the statue itself is unlikely. It's best to check local transport schedules if you plan not to drive.

Nerida holds the distinction of being the first mermaid statue in New England. Sculptor Richard Klyver designed her purely from his own imagination, not modeling her after the famous "Little Mermaid" in Copenhagen. Her "dimpled creation" and the way local residents occasionally adorn her with items like flower leis or Santa hats add to her quirky and unique personality, making her a beloved local landmark.

Yes, the Eastport Mermaid Statue is located within the Eastport Historic District, which encompasses a five-block stretch of Water Street. This area features late 19th-century commercial buildings, many designed by architect Henry Black after an 1886 fire. Beyond the historic district, visitors can explore other waterfront landmarks and natural features on Moose Island, including Shackford Head State Park for hiking.