Cruise Maine’s beautiful Belfast Bay aboard a classic wooden lobster boat with your own private captain. Customize your adventure for dinner, proposals, or a relaxing trip for up to six guests.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical effort required; suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
Wildlife
History
Belfast has a rich maritime heritage, with lobster boats playing a vital role in Maine’s fishing industry since the early 20th century.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on protecting marine habitats and promoting sustainable fishing to preserve the bay’s delicate ecosystem.
The Back and Forth
Cruise Maine’s beautiful Belfast Bay aboard a classic wooden lobster boat with your own private captain. Customize your adventure for dinner, proposals, or a relaxing trip for up to six guests.
The Back and Forth is a small-boat charter and tour operator based in Bucksport, Maine. The company runs a variety of guided experiences across Penobscot Bay and Belfast Harbor, from short scenic jaunts to full-day cruises and overnight island camping.
Trips include Belfast's VIP Private Harbor Cruise, Belfast's Family Treasure Hunter, Belfast's Relaxing Day Cruise with Lobster, The Delight Harbor Tour (running July 1st–August 30th), Belfast's Incredible Sunset Cruise With Lobster, Bucksport's Seamanship Day, Epic Private Island Camping, The Bucksport Ice Cream Sunday, The Penobscot Triangle, and The Out & About VIP Charter & Captain.
Each excursion is led by a professional captain who provides local commentary, personalized service, and safety-focused instruction on seamanship experiences. Several cruises feature a VIP stop at Young's Lobster Pound to purchase or enjoy fresh lobster and lobster rolls. The Out & About is a 1968 Maine wooden lobster boat used for intimate charters and can host up to six passengers for customized outings such as island dinners or proposals.
The Back and Forth emphasizes hands-on learning for seamanship days, family-friendly activities like Pirate Jack's treasure hunt, and nature-focused routes that include wildlife sightings and stops in towns such as Castine and Belfast. Booking details, trip durations, and specific itineraries are available through listed trip pages. The operator provides local knowledge, customizable tours, and a range of experiences suitable for families, small groups, and adventurers seeking a Maine coastal escape. Reservations are required for many trips and group-size limits may apply depending on the season.
Location
Bucksport, ME
Departing from Bucksport harbor
Boat Type
1968 wooden lobster boat
Classic Maine lobster boat
Tours Offered
11
Varied bay and island experiences
Trip Lengths
30 min–24 hr
Short jaunts to full overnight trips
Reserve a cruise or private charter for families, small groups, and special occasions — check capacity and booking details before you go.
Book Early for Peak Dates
This popular VIP charter fills up quickly during summer and special weekends, so reserve well in advance.
Dress in Layers
Bring warm layers even in summer, as coastal breezes can be cool on the water.
Bring a Camera
Capture the scenic islands, lighthouses, and wildlife during your cruise for lasting memories.
Mind the Limited Space
With a maximum capacity of six, pack light and keep belongings secure aboard the boat.
Windbreaker or Light Jacket
Protects against cool spring breezes while cruising on the bay.
spring
Sunscreen
Essential to protect your skin during sunny, exposed hours on the water.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning coastal scenery, wildlife, and special moments on board.
Warm Hat and Gloves
Keep comfortable during crisp fall mornings and evenings on the boat.
fall