EASTPORT -- Monday, September 22, marks the end of the summer season. It's time when some Maine communities begin to close up shop as tourists vacate back to where they call home.

For years, tourism season in Eastport ended with the city's annual Pirate Festival, which takes place one week after Labor Day Weekend. But according to Joan Lowden, their recent influx of cruise ships have the potential to give local businesses an autumn boost.

With around 21 cruise ships coming to Eastport this year, she says this will extend their tourist visits well into early-November, a time of the year also known as the shoulder season.

Lowden is an Eastport resident, a director for the Eastport Area Chamber of Commerce, and while also bearing various responsibilities for the city, she also gives to

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