The Woodlands (Houston), Texas, March 1, 2019 … A landmark and a legend for more than a century, the historic Spruce Point Inn resort in Boothbay Harbor has reigned for years as the choice of discerning travelers and is independently ranked as one of the “best resorts in New England.” New ownership and management aim to extend that legacy.

The owners of Spruce Point Inn have concluded the sale of the property to Stonehouse Capital; and after careful consideration, Stonehouse Capital has engaged BENCHMARK®, a global hospitality company, to operate Spruce Point Inn as part of their Gemstone Collection.

“Stonehouse Capital is honored to be the new owner and steward of Spruce Point Inn,” said CEO Jeff Broaden. “This special resort embodies the history and beauty of Maine’s iconic MidCoast region and is a cherished destination for so many guests. Our plan is to protect and celebrate the Inn’s history and charm, while continuing to make thoughtful improvements that enhance our guests’ experience.”

Mr. Broaden also noted the importance of selecting a professional management company that shares Stonehouse Capital’s passion for history, tradition and preserving the unique aspects of its properties.  “We’re excited to have such esteemed partners in Benchmark, which shares our enthusiasm for Spruce Point Inn and our commitment to continuing its traditions of exceptional service, special experiences, and a strong sense of community that fosters meaningful connections.”

Benchmark’s CEO Alex Cabañas added, “We are honored to add this historic and prestigious resort to our careful management, and to be entrusted with its legacy and traditions that have meant so much to generations of families in New England and beyond.”  Mr. Cabañas noted that Benchmark's role will be to help enhance this storied legacy using its signature guest service and its emphasis on experiential travel, rooted in unique and dynamic destinations. “Spruce Point Inn’s special legacy will be well-preserved, respected and protected,” he asserts.

"Each year when the editors of Conde Nast Traveler, Down East and Yankee name Spruce Point Inn one of the top resorts in the Northeast, Joe Paolillo and I make sure we thank the people responsible -- the team here at the Inn, our guests, and the local community," said Angelo DiGiulian, Spruce Point Inn owner and innkeeper. "We know that this extended family ensures the continued excellence of the Inn, and the continued improvement it takes to stay at the top. The next steps we're undertaking with Stonehouse Capital and Benchmark are aimed directly at sustaining those commitments, and at the objective of keeping the Spruce Point family, including us, proud of what Spruce Point Inn stands for: excellence in 'creating oceanside memories, made in Maine.'"

Spruce Point Inn is set on 57 waterfront acres, surrounded by the spruce trees that give the Point its name. With luxurious accommodations distributed among the historic inn, classic New England cottages and contemporary townhouses and lodges, plus 8,000 square feet of meeting and event space, the property attracts leisure travelers, families, weddings and organizations seeking the ideal private corporate retreat.

Built in the late 1800s as a hunting and fishing lodge, Spruce Point Inn served as an inn and tea room until the 1920s when its reputation as a family resort and community social hub first took shape. Visionary and committed owners added improvements and activities that turned this small seaside hotel into an award-winning resort, beloved by generations of guests. Political and social luminaries found a haven at Spruce Point, including various New England governors, Senators Robert F. and Edward M. Kennedy, Hubert H. Humphrey and their families, as well as stars of stage and media.

The resort is a retreat of 9 guestrooms in The Inn, 15 classic cottages and cottage rooms, 56 modern lodge rooms and 5 townhomes, all with an array of luxury amenities and stunning views.

Culinary offerings include oceanside dining with specialties fresh from the coast and countryside of Maine. Guests enjoy a locally-fished, farmed and harvested menu, including lobsters and oysters fresh from the boat, grass-fed beef, produce from local organic farms and herbs and lettuce snipped fresh from the Spruce Point Inn kitchen garden. Restaurants include Bogie’s, a convivial New England tavern; the elegant 88, beloved for its stunning ocean views and spectacular sunsets; and Deck, the seasonal waterfront cafe.

The resort’s spa is housed in a secluded cottage and offers an array of customized treatments including organic facials, reflexology, manicures and pedicures, as well as massages at the Spa or in an oceanfront cabana.

Spruce Point Inn specializes in “oceanside memories made in Maine,” offering an array of adventures on land and water on property and nearby. Guests can enjoy the Inn’s saltwater pool and a heated freshwater pool, and there are five moorings available for boaters. The supervised Lighthouse Camp delights children and their parents with a range of planned activities.

Customized group and reunion experiences include lighthouse tours, clam/lobster bakes and kayaking trips.  Teambuilding activities can include rope climbing, sailing, and golf as well as art and culinary exercises.

The Inn’s motor launch provides complimentary transportation by water to the village of Boothbay Harbor for shopping, gallery-hopping and sightseeing along the working piers. A shuttle van makes the same 2-mile, 10-minute trip by land. Plus the Inn makes an ideal base of operations for exploring nearby attractions including the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens with its renowned Children’s Garden, the Boothbay Railway Village and Auto Museum featuring rides on a restored steam train, Burnt Island Lighthouse and the Maine State Aquarium with its touch tank. Boothbay Harbor also hosts a variety of special events, including the Windjammer Days and Harbor Fest in September. Guests who golf appreciate the 18-hole championship course at Boothbay Country Club just 3 miles from the Inn. Day sails, whale-watches, nature cruises and fishing trips are also easily arranged.

Pets are considered part of the Spruce Point Inn family and the pet-friendly property lets furry friends enjoy the wide-open spaces and beachfront runs.

Spruce Point Inn photography link: https://www.sprucepointinn.com/gallery/
   
About Spruce Point Inn (www.sprucepointinn.com)
In operation for more than 100 years, Spruce Point Inn is a distinctive and historic vacation destination for travelers from all over the United States. Its relaxing facilities have long been a part of the summer community and a backdrop for delightful “oceanside memories made in Maine.” Located in the seafaring village of Boothbay Harbor, Maine (an hour north of Portland) and situated on 57 acres of stunning oceanfront and sheltering pine forest, the resort is a retreat of 9 guestrooms in The Inn, 15 classic cottages and cottage rooms, 56 modern lodge rooms and 5 townhomes. The convenient location, peaceful setting and spectacular coastal views have made Spruce Point Inn a premier resort for families, reunions, weddings and business events. For reservations, call 800-553-0289 or visit www.sprucepointinn.com

About Boothbay Harbor
Boothbay Harbor’ seafaring past is present today in its lively working waterfront, filled with fishing boats and a prosperous shipyard. The scenic harbor is surrounded by islands and lighthouses set along the craggy Maine Coast. The town itself is among Maine’s most celebrated attractions, known for its authentic charm, stunning natural beauty, outstanding restaurants, stylish boutiques, and historic architecture. MidCoast towns host many year ‘round events, and in June, Boothbay Harbor celebrates its Windjammer Days Festival – two days of parades, entertainment, craft fairs and a spectacular fleet of visiting Windjammers.

About Stonehouse Capital
Stonehouse Capital is a private investment firm with a focus on acquiring, owning, and managing distinctive assets.  Stonehouse and their partners have an affinity for irreplaceable properties and a commitment to making a positive impact within their communities.  Guided by a true-partnership philosophy, their ability to uncover unique opportunities and forge real value is their foundation. Stonehouse Capital leadership’s prior projects, among others, include the historic Chicago Athletic Association, the beautiful Calistoga Ranch resort, Soho House Chicago private members club, the Pontchartrain Hotel, and the Thompson Nashville.

About BENCHMARK®, a global hospitality company.
BENCHMARK®, a global hospitality company, is a leader in the development, management, and marketing of independent, soft branded, and experiential hard branded resorts, hotels, and conference centers.  In addition to the company’s award-winning full service Benchmark Resorts & Hotels, its lifestyle and luxury Gemstone Collection, and its industry-leading Benchmark Conference Center division, etc.venues is a leading provider of contemporary city centre venues for meetings, signature events, and conferences. BENCHMARK’s combined portfolio features more than 80 unique projects across three continents. The company is passionately committed to delivering personal, inspiring, and memory-making experiences, driving total revenue and profitability, and cultivating an award winning, “Be The Difference” culture for all its employees.  BENCHMARK, is based in The Woodlands (Houston), Texas, with offices in London, England; Miami, Florida; Park City, Utah; Scottsdale, Arizona; New Brunswick, New Jersey; Seattle, Washington; and Tokyo, Japan.www.benchmarkglobalhospitality.com To become a fan on Facebook, visit www.facebook.com/BenchmarkResortsandHotels, www.facebook.com/GemstoneHotelCollection. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/BenchmarkHotels, www.twitter.com/GemstoneHotels , on Instagram at www.instagram.com/benchmarkresortsandhotels, www.instagram.com/gemstonehotels, and on Pinterest at www.pinterest.com/benchmarkhotels/gemstone-hotels. At LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/benchmark-a-global-hospitality-company/