Experience Maine’s rugged coast aboard Beal & Bunker’s ferry between Northeast Harbor and the Cranberry Isles, where ocean views and local culture meet. Whether commuting or island hopping, this ride turns transit into adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
20–45 minutes round trip
Fitness Level
Minimal physical effort required; suitable for all fitness levels.
Wildlife
History
The Cranberry Isles have a long history as fishing communities dating back to the 19th century, with some families residing year-round for generations.
Conservation
Beal & Bunker emphasizes responsible tourism, encouraging visitors to respect fragile island ecosystems and minimize waste during visits.
Beal & Bunker
Experience Maine’s rugged coast aboard Beal & Bunker’s ferry between Northeast Harbor and the Cranberry Isles, where ocean views and local culture meet. Whether commuting or island hopping, this ride turns transit into adventure.
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.
Location
Mount Desert, ME
Home base on Mount Desert Island
Trip Durations
15–120 min
Short crossings to multi-stop loop
Trips Listed
11 routes
Multiple Cranberry Isles connections
Service Focus
Comfortable & reliable
Consistent island crossings described
Choose the right crossing—round trips, point-to-point sailings, and the Island Hopper loop connect Northeast Harbor with Islesford and Great Cranberry.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Ferry runs can fill quickly, especially during summer; plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early.
Dress for Coastal Weather
Expect chilly ocean breezes even in summer—bring layers and windproof gear.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing on the passage by spotting seabirds and marine mammals offshore.
Check Schedule Seasonally
Winter weather may affect departure times; verify ferry schedules ahead of your trip.
Windbreaker Jacket
Protects against cold ocean breezes common on ferry rides.
spring
Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment to changing temperatures on open water.
Binoculars
Useful for spotting wildlife and distant island features.
Camera with Zoom Lens
Captures vibrant coastline scenes and wildlife moments.