Paddle through Frenchmen's Bay with Acadia Sea Kayaking Adventures on the Dirigo Tour. Spot seals, porpoises, and eagles while exploring tidal pools and coastal geology in this immersive 3-hour ocean journey.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic fitness with comfort paddling for a few hours in open water conditions.
Wildlife
History
Frenchmen's Bay has long influenced the maritime culture of Bar Harbor, serving historically as a fishing and shipping corridor.
Conservation
Acadia Sea Kayaking Adventures follows low-impact paddling practices that minimize disturbance to wildlife and fragile shoreline ecosystems.
Acadia Sea Kayaking Adventures
Paddle through Frenchmen's Bay with Acadia Sea Kayaking Adventures on the Dirigo Tour. Spot seals, porpoises, and eagles while exploring tidal pools and coastal geology in this immersive 3-hour ocean journey.
Acadia Sea Kayaking Adventures offers sea kayaking trips around Acadia National Park and Frenchmen's Bay. The operator presents five distinct experiences that showcase coastal Maine from the water: the 2-hour Sunset Tour (2–4 miles) focused on Golden Hour views over Frenchmen's Bay; Acadia After Dark, a night kayaking experience offering stargazing under the Milky Way and occasional late-night seal sightings; the Too Easy Tour, a leisurely 2-hour introduction to sea kayaking that covers roughly 2–4 miles at a relaxed pace; the Dirigo Tour, a 3-hour adventure featuring a beach landing, tidal pool exploration, and opportunities to spot porpoises, seals, and eagles; and one additional listed experience included among the offerings.
Trip descriptions emphasize specific on-water experiences and observable wildlife rather than broad claims. Distances and durations are provided so visitors can select trips based on time, fitness, and interests. The Too Easy Tour is presented as an accessible introduction for newcomers seeking a calm paddle, while the Dirigo Tour gives more time for wildlife watching and shoreline exploration. Sunset and night options highlight dramatic sky and light conditions—Golden Hour vistas and Milky Way stargazing—which differentiate the offerings.
Because itineraries list clear durations, distances, focal points (beach landing, tidal pools, wildlife sightings), and locations (Frenchmen's Bay, Down East Maine, Acadia National Park), prospective guests can make informed choices about which paddle best matches their expectations and abilities.
Tours Offered
5
Diverse coastal experiences
Typical Length
2–3 hours
Options for short or extended trips
Wildlife Seen
Seals, porpoises, eagles
Common coastal sightings
Location
Frenchmen's Bay & Down East
Paddles in Acadia National Park
Reserve a Sunset Tour, a Night Paddle, an Easy Intro, or the Dirigo wildlife trip — limited seats for unforgettable coastal experiences.
Arrive Early to Prepare
Arriving 15 minutes before your trip ensures time for a safety briefing and proper kayak fitting.
Wear Layers for Changing Conditions
Ocean breezes can shift quickly; moisture-wicking layers and a windbreaker help keep comfortable.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
The wildlife and coastline offer fantastic photo ops—protect your gear from splashes and spray.
Mind the Tides at Beach Landing
Timing your visit during lower tide enhances the tidal pool exploration experience at the beach stop.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against cool winds and ocean spray during the paddle.
spring|fall|summer
Quick-Dry Clothing
Keeps you comfortable if you get splashed or wet on the water.
summer|spring|fall
Water Shoes
Useful for safely walking on rocky beaches during the landing.
summer|spring|fall
Sun Protection (Hat and Sunscreen)
Essential to protect skin and eyes when paddling under direct sunlight.
summer