It's time to bundle up and head outside for Ebb Tide's ninth annual treasure hunt, happening March 25-29.

To celebrate being in business 38 years, Ebb Tide owners Peter and Nancy Gilchrist said they are looking forward to this year's hunt in which 38 new $10 bills will be awarded to one lucky finder of the elusive Ebb Tide token.

Participants will likely search far and wide on Boothbay Harbor's public lands and Land Trust properties in hopes of finding a 1.5-inch red plastic token that resembles a poker chip with the initials “E T” on one side.

Peter Gilchrist said the token, once found, can be brought to Ebb Tide any day, either at 1:30 or 7 p.m., so the finder can collect their $380 and have their photo taken. Participants will have until Friday, March 29 to redeem the prize. If the token isn't presented by 7:30 p.m., Friday, the money will be donated to a local charity.

Throughout the week, clues written in poetic verse will help guide hopeful hunters in search of the vaunted treasure. Starting Monday morning, clues will be posted at Ebb Tide restaurant three times a day at 7 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 5 p.m.

Clues will also be posted to the Boothbay Register website promptly two hours after Ebb Tide's post. Just visit www.boothbayregister.com and click on the treasure chest banner at 9 a.m., 3:30 p.m., or 7 p.m for daily updates. Clues will become more specific as the week progresses.

The token will not be hidden in a dangerous place, such as a roadway. No digging, cutting, or damage to any property will be necessary during the hunt.

The Gilchrists advised treasure hunters to be cautious and to dress appropriately for the conditions. Although the treasure hunt is a fun event for everyone, the Gilchrists wanted to remind people that sprained ankles and other injuries have occurred in years past. “There is nothing the Ebb Tide crew wants more than for people to have some good, clean fun in the outdoors of Maine, and to do so safely,” Peter Gilchrist said.

The Ebb Tide treasure hunt first started in 2005 to commemorate the 30th anniversary. In the past, the token has been found on a tree trunk in Barrett's Park, near a path in the woods of Penny Lake Preserve and under a metal staircase near Juniper Point. Last year the token was found attached to the rear side of the backboard at the community tennis courts at Boothbay Region High School.