Crossing Frenchman Bay: The Bar Harbor to Winter Harbor Ferry
A quick, scenic hop across Frenchman Bay to Acadia’s quieter side—bikes, wildlife, and small-town charm included.
Morning comes soft and silver to Frenchman Bay. Gulls heckle the shoreline, the tide slides around barnacled pilings, and the ferry leans from the Bar Harbor Inn pier as if eager to taste the open water. You step aboard with a small crowd carrying daypacks and bikes, the deck smelling of salt and cedar. Engines thrum. The bow noses out. Cadillac Mountain fades behind veils of sea fog and, just like that, the day opens wide.
Trail Wisdom
Dress for a cooler bay
Even in summer, wind off Frenchman Bay can be chilly. Pack a light windproof layer so you can enjoy the deck without shivering.
Roll-on with your bike
Bikes are welcome for a small fee each way—ideal for linking the Schoodic Loop Road with the free Island Explorer shuttle.
Watch the late departures
After Labor Day, the 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. crossings don’t run. Check schedules and plan your return to avoid a scramble.
Keep a wildlife-ready stance
Porpoise and seals surface fast; keep your camera handy and use the rail for balance when the bay gets bumpy.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Frazer Point’s picnic area and tide pools—quiet, scenic, and close to the ferry shuttle stop
- •The Bar Harbor Shore Path at dawn—flat, easy, and all about big bay views
Wildlife
Harbor Seals, Bald Eagles
Conservation Note
Respect nesting seabirds, keep a wide berth from wildlife, and pack out everything you bring. Avoid scrambling on fragile shoreline vegetation.
Frenchman Bay was named for early French explorers, and Schoodic became the only mainland section of Acadia through early 20th-century land donations and conservation efforts.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Cool-weather crossings, Wildlife spotting
Challenges: Foggy mornings, Cold wind on deck
Expect crisp air, frequent fog, and lighter crowds. A warm layer and hat make the ride comfortable.
summer
Best for: Family day trips, Biking the Schoodic Loop
Challenges: Peak crowds, Strong afternoon sea breezes
The liveliest season with reliable service and long days. Book ahead and aim for early crossings to dodge crowds.
fall
Best for: Foliage views, Clear, calm mornings
Challenges: Cooler temps, Reduced late departures after Labor Day
Brisk air and color-drenched forests make the bay pop. Layer up and confirm schedules.
winter
Best for: Coastal solitude (on land)
Challenges: Ferry service typically not offered, Cold, stormy seas
Plan coastal walks and scenic drives instead; the ferry generally operates late spring through early fall only.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Windproof LayerEssential
Frenchman Bay runs cool and breezy; a light shell keeps the chill off in shoulder seasons and fog.
Non-Slip FootwearEssential
Boat decks can be damp—wear shoes with grip for safe footing while moving around.
Compact Binoculars
A small pair helps you spot seals, eagles, and porpoise without crowding the rail.
Sun Protection (Hat + SPF)Essential
Reflection off the water amplifies UV exposure; protect your skin on bright days.
Common Questions
How long is the ferry ride between Bar Harbor and Winter Harbor?
The crossing is approximately 45 minutes, depending on conditions.
Can I bring a bike on the ferry?
Yes. Bikes are welcome for a small fee each way, and the Island Explorer shuttle on the Schoodic side is bike-friendly.
Are pets allowed on the ferry?
Yes, the ferry is pet-friendly. Keep pets leashed and be considerate of other passengers.
Do I need a park pass for Schoodic Peninsula?
A park pass is required to recreate within Acadia National Park, including the Schoodic Loop. You don’t need a pass to ride the ferry itself.
What happens if there’s fog or rough weather?
Coastal Maine sees frequent fog. Crossings typically proceed in light fog, but the operator may delay or cancel for safety in poor conditions—check for updates.
Are there restrooms on board?
Facilities vary by vessel and dock. Use shore restrooms before boarding and ask crew upon embarkation.
What to Pack
Windproof shell for the bay breeze; non-slip shoes for safe footing on deck; compact binoculars to spot seals and eagles; sun protection (hat and SPF) for bright reflections off the water.
Did You Know
Schoodic Peninsula is the only mainland section of Acadia National Park, famous for its diabase dikes that cut dark seams through pink granite along the surf-pounded shore.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 15–20 minutes early to board calmly and snag rail space; Bring cash or card for the bike fee and snacks; Use the Island Explorer shuttle on Schoodic to link viewpoints without a car; After Labor Day, confirm late-day returns as evening trips wind down.
Local Flavor
Post-crossing in Bar Harbor, grab a lobster roll and a local pour at Thirsty Whale Tavern or detour to Side Street Cafe for hearty bowls and craft beer. On the Schoodic side, swing through Winter Harbor’s Main Street for coffee and a pastry before catching the Island Explorer. Cap the day with a shoreline stroll on the Bar Harbor Shore Path or sunset wave-watching at Schoodic Point.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Hancock County–Bar Harbor (BHB, 15 min) and Bangor International (BGR, ~1.5 hrs). Departure: Bar Harbor Inn pier, walkable from downtown; arrivals at Winter Harbor town pier. Driving isn’t required—use the Island Explorer on both sides. Cell service is generally good in town and variable on the water. No permits for the ferry; Acadia park pass required for Schoodic recreation.
Sustainability Note
You’re crossing a working bay that’s also wildlife habitat—observe marine mammals from a respectful distance, never feed gulls, and pack out all trash. Support local businesses on both shores to keep this coastal economy resilient.
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