Craving that sweet, briny taste of Maine lobster without hopping on a plane? These five shippers bring the ocean to your door, each with its own spin on getting you the freshest catch.
The Maine Lobster Shipping Scene
Maine's lobster industry is a cornerstone of New England's coastal economy, and in recent years, the ability to ship live lobsters overnight has transformed how the rest of the country enjoys this delicacy. From family-run markets to larger online operations, these businesses compete on freshness, speed, and the little extras that make a seafood order feel special. You're not just buying a crustacean; you're buying a piece of Maine's heritage, delivered to your doorstep. The best shippers understand that trust is everything—they pack carefully, ship quickly, and stand behind their product. Whether you're a home cook planning a special dinner or a business sourcing for events, the right shipper can make all the difference.
How We Evaluated These Shippers
To help you choose, we looked at each business on the same set of factors: the range of products offered, the clarity of pricing and shipping information, the depth of local Maine character, and the overall customer experience. We also considered how well each business communicates its sourcing and handling practices, because you want to know your lobster was treated right from trap to table. Each of these five shippers brings something unique to the table, and we've highlighted what stood out for each one.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five shippers we're diving into, so you can see at a glance what each one is about.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Maine Lobster Now | One-stop shopping with a huge selection |
| Home - Graffam Bros Seafood | Authentic small-town Maine charm |
| Get Maine Lobster | Premium quality and sustainability focus |
| Lobster 207 | Straightforward, sustainable sourcing |
| LobsterGuy | Long-standing reliability and event packages |
The Deep Dive: Five Shippers Compared
#1 Maine Lobster Now
A screenshot of the Maine Lobster Now website.
Maine Lobster Now is a powerhouse in the online lobster delivery space, offering an extensive catalog that goes far beyond just live lobsters. You'll find lobster tails, meat, rolls, dinners, and even mac and cheese, plus a wide range of crab, shellfish, fish, and gourmet sides. Their website is easy to navigate, with clear categories and frequent promotions like free shipping on orders over $150. They also provide helpful cooking guides and recipes, making it a one-stop shop for both novice and experienced seafood cooks. If you want variety and convenience, this is a solid choice.
#2 Home - Graffam Bros Seafood
A screenshot of the Home - Graffam Bros Seafood website.
Graffam Bros Seafood is a family-run market in Rockport, Maine, that brings a personal touch to online lobster sales. They offer live lobsters, fresh seafood, prepared meals, and even sea vegetables, all shipped straight from their store. Their website emphasizes their small-business roots, and they were even named 2023 Small Business of the Year. You can also browse their recipe cookbook, which lets you rate and save your favorite Maine dishes. If you're looking for that authentic, community-focused experience, Graffam Bros delivers.
#3 Get Maine Lobster
A screenshot of the Get Maine Lobster website.
Get Maine Lobster focuses on delivering premium, wild-caught Maine lobster directly from the coast, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and quality. Their site offers a range of live lobsters, tails, and meat, plus add-ons like lobster bisque and clam chowder to round out your meal. They also have a membership program that gives you access to exclusive deals and early access to seasonal offerings. The ordering process is straightforward, and they provide detailed shipping information so you know exactly what to expect. For those who want a curated, high-end experience, this is a great pick.
#4 Lobster 207
A screenshot of the Lobster 207 website.
Lobster 207 is a direct-to-consumer operation that prides itself on sustainable fishing practices and a no-frills approach. They sell live lobsters by the pound, with options like 'Chix' and 'Quarters' that let you choose your size, and they include shipping in their prices. Their website is straightforward, with a focus on the product and the fishing community behind it. They also offer helpful tips, like how to blanch lobsters for later use, which shows their commitment to customer education. If you want a simple, honest transaction with a local feel, Lobster 207 is worth a look.
#5 LobsterGuy
A screenshot of the LobsterGuy website.
LobsterGuy has been shipping live lobsters overnight since 1996, making them a veteran in the industry. They offer a wide range of products, from live lobsters in various sizes to full clambake dinner packages and lobster roll kits. Their website is packed with customer reviews and clear pricing, and they often run seasonal promotions like extra discounts with promo codes. They also provide a track-my-order feature, so you can follow your shipment right to your door. If you're planning a big event or just want a reliable, experienced shipper, LobsterGuy has you covered.
How to Choose Your Lobster Shipper
When you're picking a lobster shipper, start by thinking about what you need: a single live lobster for a special dinner, or a full spread for a party? Look at the variety of products each offers, and check if they have the specific sizes or items you want. Pay attention to shipping costs and delivery windows—some include shipping in the price, while others add it at checkout. Also, consider the level of customer support and educational resources, like cooking guides, which can be a lifesaver if you're new to cooking lobster. Finally, read reviews and see how each company handles issues like delays or damaged goods, because that tells you a lot about their reliability.
Streamlining Your Seafood Order
Once you've chosen your shipper, you can often set up recurring orders or gift subscriptions, so you never miss out on fresh lobster. Many of these sites allow you to schedule deliveries in advance, which is perfect for planning ahead for holidays or special occasions. You can also save your favorite products and checkout information for faster ordering next time. Some even offer email alerts for sales and new arrivals, so you can snag the best deals without constantly checking the site. Automating your seafood orders means you can enjoy that taste of Maine whenever you want, with minimal effort.
The Final Word on Maine Lobster Shippers
Each of these five shippers brings something unique to the table, from the vast selection at Maine Lobster Now to the small-town charm of Graffam Bros. Your choice really comes down to what you value most: variety, sustainability, price, or that personal touch. No matter which you pick, you're getting a taste of Maine's finest, delivered right to your door. So go ahead, treat yourself to a lobster dinner—you deserve it.