Theme Weekend Cancellations/Transfers:

Your deposit of $150 is non-refundable. If you cancel your reservation, a credit will be available to use on another program this year or next, if the notice given falls within the following time periods:

• Four weeks prior to start date: Full deposit available as a credit.
• Between four and two weeks prior to start date: $100 forfeit, remaining deposit available as credit.
• Two weeks or less from start date: Full deposit forfeit.
  Note: Credits are transferable to another person with your consent in writing.

If we must cancel a program you will receive two weeks notice, and the choice of a full refund. Please check with your airline about its cancellation policy.

RIPPLEFFECT IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TRAVEL RESERVATIONS BOOKED TO ATTEND CANCELLED PROGRAMS.

Balance is due two weeks before program start.

Hazard/Safety/Use Policy:

1. Cow Island is governed under a comprehensive conservation easement through the Maine Coast Heritage Trust. This legal document prohibits the destruction of plant life, harassment of animals and the outward alteration of the historic structures. Please help us to keep our promises and abide by these guidelines.

2. Alcohol/Drug Policy Fort Lyon and Rippleffect serve youth & adults with high quality adventure and educational programs on Cow Island. The overindulgence of alcohol or any other drug is at odds with the sprit and purpose of our use of the island. Please use your best judgment when choosing to use these substances if you are of legal age. Bear in mind that illegal drug use is not tolerated and any evidence of this type of activity will be reported to the Long Island constable. We do not serve alcohol on Cow Island. Please honor the designated smoking area and proper disposal of cigarettes.

3. Toilet facilities are available. Composting toilets exist in the middle of the island an off the SW side of Cow. Please help us diminish the stress to and prolonging the life of these systems by adhering to Leave No Trace Ethics – feel free to pee below the high tide line in private.

4. As a former military base, Cow Island has many identified and unidentified hazards, not the least of which are sharp objects (metal and glass) on the ground. Closed-toed shoes are highly recommended while on the interior of the island. Please be mindful that beaches may also be sites where these objects may appear!

5. As part and parcel of the sustainable living pledge that Fort Lyons has signed on to, the conservation of water and the composting of food waste is a priority. Please help us to do this and follow the water use and composting guidelines.

6. The hazards are not limited to glass. Poison ivy rings the island; please be careful when exploring. Guides can identify where it is and what it looks like. Click here for tips on how to identify poison ivy. Ticks do live on Cow Island. Careful observation is your best weapon. Long pants help.

7. Pets are not allowed (with the exception of the Cow Bow Wow).

8. Ledges and drop offs. This installation was originally built to defend against military attack. Dangerous drop offs and difficult pitches exist. Please be careful when walking at night.

9. Health Services: There are no standard medical services or pharmaceutical supplies available on Cow Island. All guides are certified Wilderness First Responders and qualified to administer first aid and help in the case of an emergency. Should an emergency arise, Rippleffect has an evacuation plan in place to nearby (20 minutes from Cow) Maine Medical Center.

10. Money: We are unable to act as a banking service for our guests. Please bring adequate funds for your stay.


11. Valuables: Cow Island has no facilities to store valuables.


12. Snoring: All of our accommodations are shared. You or your roommate may snore. Please come prepared (nose guards, ear plugs, etc.) for this possibility.

13. Lost and Found: To inquire about items left behind from your Fort Lyon visit, call 207-791-7870.