Seagate Motel on Townsend Avenue in Boothbay Harbor was sold to the Lafayette Hotels Group on Thursday, July 13. Management will continue for the remainder of the year under the Friant family who has owned and managed the property for nearly 50 years.

“We are happy about the Seagate joining the Lafayette Group,” said Bonnie Stover, manager of Lafayette’s Tugboat Inn. “Marie Friant will be working with the Lafayette group for the remainder of the year as sort of the liaison between the families.”

Said George Friant, “(The Lafayette Group) will be maintaining the name and maintaining the property.”

“And it’s their business, now,” said Friant. “So they have their own ideas, standards and styles as with their sister businesses in Boothbay Harbor.” Lafayette also owns Boothbay Harbor Inn and Fisherman’s Wharf Inn.

Friant said the sale transpired in a quick 10 days. “What made the decision to sell easier was knowing the Lafayette Group had deep local ties to the industry and community.”

Ramsey Lafayette also said he is happy to be working with Seagate Motel now.

“We’re excited to be working with the crew, here, and to be working with such a lovely family in this transition period,” said Lafayette. “We see a lot of potential and a lot of opportunity to offer what we can to the Seagate.”

“Their desire to see local tourism thrive benefits us all,” said Friant about the Lafayette Group. “We were honored by their commitment to the property and the people who work there. We wish them all the best, and know the legacy and goodwill created over the last 50 years at the ‘Gate’ will continue in able hands.”