Are children allowed on the cruise?

Yes, the cruise is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

The boat provides limited wheelchair accessibility; please contact the company for specific accommodations.

What wildlife might we see during the cruise?

Common sightings include seals, sea birds like bald eagles, and occasionally whales and porpoises.

Can we bring food or drinks onboard?

Outside food and drinks are not permitted; however, snacks and beverages may be available to purchase on the boat.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Trips may be rescheduled or canceled for safety in poor weather conditions; refunds or alternative dates are offered.

Do I need boating experience for this cruise?

No experience is necessary; all safety instructions are provided and the crew handles navigation.

Lighthouse & Wildlife Cruise in Bar Harbor, Maine

Set sail with the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company on an unforgettable 2.5 to 3-hour cruise exploring the scenic waters around Bar Harbor, Maine. This private adventure highlights the iconic lighthouses, vibrant wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes of Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park. As you glide past rugged coastlines, expert naturalists provide fascinating insights about the area's ecology, history, and wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for seals, eagles, and seasonal marine life, complemented by the dazzling fall foliage that paints the shoreline in fiery hues. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing outdoor experience, this trip offers something special for all ages. The calming sea breeze, stunning views, and engaging guides make this cruise a top choice for exploring Bar Harbor’s coastal beauty with a personal touch. Prepare your camera for spectacular photo opportunities capturing iconic lighthouse silhouettes against the dramatic Atlantic backdrop.

About Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company operates out of Bar Harbor, Maine, offering a range of guided boat tours that showcase the Gulf of Maine, Frenchman Bay, Acadia National Park, and Downeast coastline. The company runs whale watch trips that search for baleen whales and other marine life while supporting whale research. Shorter wildlife cruises include Puffin and Lighthouse Cruises and Acadia By Sea Nature Cruises that highlight puffins, seals, bald eagles, iconic lighthouses, and historic summer homes. For sunset experiences, the Sunset Happy Hour Nature Cruise combines wildlife viewing, shorelines of Acadia National Park, and live music. Lobster Fishing and Seal Watching trips sail aboard the Miss Samantha, described as Maine's largest lobster passenger boat, where guests haul lobster traps and learn from a professional naturalist. Longer all-day adventures include Cashes Ledge Whale & Seabird Cruises and the Bold Coast & Canada Grand Slam Lighthouse Cruise to Grand Manan Island, each led by marine experts or seasoned guides and focusing on seabirds, lighthouses, and vibrant marine ecosystems.

Seasonal and special itineraries such as the Penobscot River Fall Foliage 10 Lighthouse Cruise and Downeast Offshore Seabirds & Lighthouse Cruise offer fall foliage, photography guidance, and visits to multiple historic lighthouses. Tours are presented with knowledgeable naturalists and expert guides who provide regional history and wildlife interpretation, making each trip educational and suitable for families, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Reservations are limited on select cruises, with many trips emphasizing photography, conservation education, and close coastal scenery for memorable experiences and expert narration.