Acadia Night Sky Boat Cruise in Bar Harbor, Maine
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as the cruise involves sitting or standing with minimal physical exertion.
Overview
Discover the wonders of the night sky on a private boat cruise departing from Bar Harbor. Hear captivating stories, enjoy themed music, and explore constellations while cruising the calm waters of Acadia.
Acadia Night Sky “Under the Stars” Boat Cruise
2.5 Hours • All Ages • September 18-20 • Acadia National Park by Sea
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable night-time celestial cruise aboard the Atlanticat, where you'll explore the wonders of the night sky. With captivating stories from Penobscot speaker John Bear Mitchell and insights from naturalist Zack Klyver, you'll discover constellations and celestial navigation, all while enjoying themed music under the stars with expert Lynn Havsall.
Discover Acadia’s amazing astronomy as we use a laser pointer to identify constellations, planets, and distant galaxies.
Duration
2 Hours
About
Amazing Stargazing!
Join us on the 130’ jet-powered catamaran Atlanticat for a night-time celestial boat cruise. We depart at sunset and travel out among the islands surrounding Acadia National Park. Our first speaker is John Bear Mitchell representing Maine’s Penobscot Indian people. John will share fascinating stories describing the origin of animal and human constellations that have influenced their belief systems for over 12,000 years. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Naturalist Zack Klyver will then share a short program describing how animals and humans through history have used the night sky to navigate.
After these spoken presentations, we will cruise over the ocean and look up at the darkening night sky while listening to a selection of celestial themed music including the theme of Superman, ET, Bolero by Ravel and Star Wars by John Williams. We then turn our attention to the night sky from the top and bow of the boat with local expert naturalist and amateur astronomer Lynn Havsall, who uses a laser pointer to point out and describe constellations, planets, stars, and distant galaxies. Lynn will explain and answer questions about Greek mythology, the aurora borealis, and the amazing universe we live in – a presentation that is an annual winner with everyone onboard.
Adventure Tips
Dress Warmly for Nighttime
Temperatures on the water can drop quickly after sunset, so bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Bring a Flashlight with Red Light
Use a red-light flashlight to maintain night vision while safely navigating the boat and reading star guides.
Arrive Early to Board Smoothly
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure prompt boarding and settle in before the cruise begins.
Charge Your Camera or Binoculars
Capture the night sky or enhance your viewing experience by bringing fully charged devices or binoculars.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals often spotted near the shoreline
- Nocturnal seabirds such as Leach's storm-petrel
History
Bar Harbor has a rich Indigenous heritage, with the Penobscot people historically using the stars for navigation and storytelling.
Conservation
The Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company practices sustainable boating and adheres to strict wildlife protection guidelines to minimize environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Portland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Layers
Helps you stay comfortable during chilly nighttime temperatures on the water.
fall specific
Red-light Flashlight
Preserves your night vision while navigating and observing the stars.
Binoculars
Enhances your ability to see stars and distant objects in the dark sky.
summer specific
Camera with Tripod
Allows you to capture long-exposure night sky photography aboard the cruise.