6-Hour Ultimate Acadia & Mount Desert Island Boat Tour
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have average fitness levels with the ability to walk on uneven terrain briefly and stay active for several hours.
Overview
Spend a day exploring all the iconic sights of Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island with this 6-hour private boat tour. From Cadillac Mountain views to lobster pounds, this adventure covers the best coastal and inland spots.
Details
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island with At Your Service Tours’ exclusive 6-hour boat tour departing from Bar Harbor, Maine. This private adventure offers a perfect blend of scenic drives and coastal exploration, taking you along the 27-mile Park Loop Road to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard. From the summit, soak in expansive views of Bar Harbor, nearby islands, and iconic cruise ships.
Throughout the day, you’ll visit must-see sites like Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Cliffs, Precipice Cliffs, and Sieur de Monts Springs and Gardens. Enjoy the freedom to linger at each spot, exploring hand-carved stone bridges, rocky coves, and the stunning pink granite coastline shaped by glaciers. Beyond the park, the tour continues to charming island communities including Seal Harbor and Northeast Harbor, with opportunities to stroll through Asticou Garden and admire historic summer mansions.
Discover Somesville, the island's oldest community, and snap a photo on its famous bridge. Then, visit the Southwest Harbor to witness lobster boats offloading their catch and enjoy an optional lunch at the local lobster pound restaurant (seasonal). The day finishes with a visit to the western side of Acadia and the dramatic natural rock formation at Seawall. This immersive tour is perfect for those who want to experience the full diversity of Acadia and Mount Desert Island’s coastal and forest landscapes in one unforgettable day.
Trail Tips
Bring layered clothing
Weather can change quickly near the coast; layers help you stay comfortable throughout the day.
Wear sturdy shoes
You’ll want shoes with good grip for walking around rocky coastal areas and trails.
Pack a refillable water bottle
Stay hydrated during your tour, especially while exploring the park’s outdoor sights.
Bring a camera with zoom lens
Capture wildlife and distant coastal views from Cadillac Mountain and boat vantage points.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Asticou Garden
- Somesville Bridge
Wildlife
- Bald Eagles
- Harbor Seals
History
Mount Desert Island’s summer mansions reflect the Gilded Age when wealthy families built grand estates along the coast.
Conservation
Acadia National Park maintains strong environmental protections to preserve its unique ecosystems and coastal habitats.
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Cadillac Mountain summit
- Thunder Hole
- Seawall natural formation
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry and comfortable during spring showers or coastal winds.
spring specific
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive footwear is important for walking on rocky and uneven paths.
Sunglasses and hat
Protect your eyes from bright sun reflecting off the water and granite surfaces.
summer specific
Camera with zoom lens
Capture distant wildlife and sweeping coastal views.