Is this the same as the daytime ferry?

No. This is a short, one-way night boat intended as a post-dinner or late-evening transfer; daytime ferry trips must be booked separately.

Small bags and personal items are fine, but space is limited—travel light and secure gear during the short crossing.

Are refreshments available onboard?

No. The night boat is a transit service without food or drink—plan to eat before boarding.

What happens in bad weather?

Runs may be delayed or canceled for safety; the operator notifies booked passengers and posts updates on the booking page.

Where exactly is the pickup?

Pickup and exact boarding locations are listed on the booking page—arrive at the Islesford Dock Restaraunt area and check in early.

Is the trip suitable for children or pets?

Children are allowed; supervision is required. Pet policies vary—confirm with the operator before booking.

Night Boat from Islesford Dock Restaraunt: Starlit Transfer to Northeast Islands

Night Boat — Islesford Dock Restaraunt to Northeast offers a short, starlit transfer across Frenchman Bay off Mount Desert, Maine. This half-hour evening run leaves from Islesford Dock Restaraunt area and crosses calm water toward the Northeast islands, giving diners and campers a relaxed way to connect with island lodging and late departures. The route skirts rocky headlands, spruce-lined coves, and granite outcrops that define the central coast of Downeast Maine. The experience is simple but singular: a guided night crossing that turns routine travel into an atmospheric passage. Passengers ride on a low-profile launch with basic seating and covered areas; the slow pace encourages watching for phosphorescence and listening to the tidal hush. Look for black granite ledges, loblolly pines along the shoreline, and the flattened hollows where intertidal life collects. Sea birds and harlequin ducks frequent the shallows; seals commonly bob near the bow. On clear nights, the Milky Way can dominate the sky beyond the island lights. Practical travel notes: the crossing is short (roughly 30 minutes) but runs after local dinner services, so it’s ideal when you’ve chosen a waterfront meal and need a direct connection to island lodging. If you plan to use the ferry service to reach the island earlier in the day, book that separately—this trip is a one-way, post-dinner boat intended for return or island-bound travel after restaurants close. There is limited shelter and no onboard galley; bring a light jacket and anything you might need between stops. Why this service stands out locally is its timing and intimacy. Most Maine boat services operate midday; a night run highlights nocturnal coastal character—low-angle lights on granite, the scent of salt and pine, the slow hiss of wakes. For travelers staying in Mount Desert or visiting Acadia National Park’s surrounding islands, this ride is a practical, quieter alternative to busy daytime ferries and a memorable end to an evening ashore. The operators emphasize straightforward, reliable service rather than tour narration. That means this is primarily a transit option with atmosphere—perfect for photographers chasing long-exposure coastline shots, couples returning from dinner, and small groups with late travel plans. Keep an eye on weather and tide forecasts; New England nights can shift quickly, and cancellations are sometimes necessary for safety. Exact pickup locations and scheduling appear on the booking page; use the provided referral link when reserving. Arrive at Islesford Dock Restaraunt pickup at least 10 minutes early and carry a charged phone, headlamp, and any medications. The operator’s online schedule lists exact runs; because this is a one-way night service, double-check return options if you need to come back the same night. This short voyage is dependable when seas are calm—plan accordingly. Bring wet-weather layers, too.

About Beal & Bunker

Beal & Bunker operates ferry services based in Mount Desert, Maine, providing regular passenger transport between Northeast Harbor and the Cranberry Isles. The company runs a set of short crossings and multi-stop routes that connect Northeast Harbor, Islesford, and Great Cranberry, making island access straightforward for residents and visitors alike.

Trips include round trips and point-to-point sailings such as Northeast Harbor to Great Cranberry (approximately 20 minutes), Northeast Harbor to Islesford (approximately 30 minutes), Islesford to Great Cranberry (about 15 minutes), and a two-hour Island Hopper loop that travels NEH → Islesford → Great Cranberry → NEH. Other scheduled runs include Great Cranberry to Islesford, Great Cranberry to Northeast, and round-trip options between Cranberry Isles and Northeast Harbor. Several listings describe comfortable and reliable rides that emphasize scenic ocean views and opportunities to explore island history and culture.

Schedules and exact departure times vary; passengers should consult published timetables for current information. Typical services accommodate walk-on passengers traveling for commuting, errands, and day trips. Boats operate from Northeast Harbor, providing a direct marine link to the Cranberry Isles archipelago.

Beal & Bunker focuses on straightforward connections and short coastal crossings rather than overnight or long-distance voyages. Passenger needs such as comfortable seating, predictable crossings, and island access are highlighted in the service descriptions. For travelers seeking transport to Islesford, Great Cranberry, or other Cranberry Isles destinations from Northeast Harbor, Beal & Bunker provides multiple route options and concise trip summaries to plan each outing. Always check published timetables before travel.