Set sail on Maine's Boothbay Harbor with Balmy Days Cruises. Discover lighthouses, sea life, and local history on a scenic mailboat tour that’s perfect for all ages.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Comfortable walking is sufficient, no strenuous activity required.
Wildlife
History
Boothbay Harbor has been a vital maritime hub since the 19th century, historically serving as a center for boat building and fishing.
Conservation
The tour promotes marine conservation by educating passengers about local wildlife and sustainable practices in the region.
Balmy Days Cruises
Set sail on Maine's Boothbay Harbor with Balmy Days Cruises. Discover lighthouses, sea life, and local history on a scenic mailboat tour that’s perfect for all ages.
Balmy Days Cruises operates passenger boat tours and island trips from Boothbay Harbor, Maine. The company offers a range of short excursions and island outings that highlight coastal scenery, lighthouses, and local wildlife. Signature offerings include the One Hour Scenic Mailboat Tour aboard the Novelty, which visits Squirrel Island and showcases lighthouses, sea life, and the working waterfront. For anglers, Balmy Days Cruises runs a two-hour Mackerel Fishing trip near Boothbay Harbor; the crew provides all necessary tackle and instruction. Island access options include Monhegan Island trips that allow visitors to explore trails, galleries, and shoreline viewpoints, and a Burnt Island Lighthouse experience that begins with a 15-minute ferry ride followed by two hours on the island. Burnt Island Lighthouse visits are guided by the Keepers of the Burnt Island Lighthouse, who lead climbs of the lighthouse tower. Balmy Days Cruises also participates in Maine Open Lighthouse Day events, including the scheduled activities on September 14, 2024, such as lighthouse access, sunrise photography cruises, and island visits. The operation emphasizes safe, informative outings with local knowledge of Boothbay Harbor waters. Vessels run public departures for sightseeing, fishing, and island stops rather than private charters. Visitors can expect short scenic trips and island-focused experiences with opportunities for photography, wildlife observation, and light hiking.
Booking information and schedules are available through local ticket booths, official websites, and seasonal dockside offices at Boothbay Harbor during the tourist season each summer season.
Tours Offered
5 Tours
Varied coastal experiences.
Typical Durations
15 min–2+ hrs
Short to moderate trip lengths.
Special Event
Sept 14, 2024
Maine Open Lighthouse Day event.
Island Access
Monhegan & Burnt Island
Island visits and lighthouse climbs.
Reserve seats for mailboat tours, mackerel fishing, Monhegan trips, and Burnt Island lighthouse visits — space fills seasonally.
Bring your camera
Capture the stunning coastline and marine wildlife during the tour.
Wear layered clothing
Maine’s coastal weather can change quickly, so dress accordingly.
Arrive early
Secure your spot and enjoy the waterfront views before departure.
Pack binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing experience with a pair of binoculars.
Hat and sunglasses
Protect your eyes and skin from the sun during the boat ride.
summer
Light jacket or windbreaker
Keep comfortable if the breeze picks up on the water.
spring;fall
Camera or smartphone
Capture the scenic views and wildlife sightings.
Binoculars
Optional for better wildlife viewing.