Set sail from Camden, Maine on an 8-hour cruise featuring historic lighthouses and puffin colonies. Learn from expert guides while supporting lighthouse preservation.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated with gentle boat movement
Wildlife
History
Many Maine lighthouses date back to the 19th century, reflecting the area’s rich maritime heritage and vital role in coastal navigation.
Conservation
The American Lighthouse Foundation leads active preservation efforts to protect both wildlife habitats and historic structures from the impacts of weather and tourism.
Camden Harbor Cruises
Set sail from Camden, Maine on an 8-hour cruise featuring historic lighthouses and puffin colonies. Learn from expert guides while supporting lighthouse preservation.
Camden Harbor Cruises operates narrated boat excursions that showcase Maine’s coastline and maritime heritage. The fleet includes the Periwinkle, which serves as the platform for an eight-hour Full Day Cruise presented with the American Lighthouse Foundation and featuring puffin viewing; a portion of those ticket sales supports lighthouse preservation. Weekly three-hour options include the Grindle Point Lighthouse Excursion, with stops at Islesboro’s Grindle Point Lighthouse and the Sailor’s Museum and commentary that highlights local history, and the Sunday Morning Lighthouse Cruise, a narrated three-hour tour past landmarks such as Curtis Island and Owls Head.
Shorter adventures include the one-hour Lobstering & Lighthouse Cruise and the 1.5-hour Morning Lobster Haul, both offering hands-on lobster-trap demonstrations and the chance to learn about lobstering practices. A two-hour Eco-Tour (Wildlife Cruise) travels across the bay to a secluded seal habitat and includes bird and marine-life viewing along with a lobster-trap hauling demonstration. The Periwinkle is also available for private charter. Tours highlight local maritime history, lighthouse preservation, wildlife viewing, and lobstering techniques.
Tours Offered
7
Variety of cruises and charters
Trip Durations
1–8 hours
Short and full-day options available
Wildlife & Nature
Puffins, Seals
Wildlife-focused eco and lighthouse trips
Preservation Support
Portion of Sales
Supports lighthouse preservation
Select a lighthouse, wildlife, or lobstering trip and secure tickets for a memorable Maine coastal experience aboard the Periwinkle.
Bring layered clothing
Maine’s coastal weather can change quickly; layers help you stay comfortable throughout the day.
Bring binoculars
Essential for spotting distant puffins and detailed lighthouse features up close.
Wear sunscreen
Long hours on the water increase sun exposure; protect your skin even on cloudy days.
Arrive early for boarding
Ships depart promptly from Camden Harbor; arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start.
Waterproof jacket
spring
Binoculars
Helps spot puffins and distant lighthouses clearly.
Camera with zoom lens
Captures detailed coastal scenery and wildlife moments.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during the long day on the boat.
summer