Discover the rugged charm of Monhegan Island with scenic boat cruises, hiking, and wildlife spotting. A Maine coastal adventure not to miss!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical fitness needed for hiking and boat trip
Wildlife
History
Monhegan has been a fishing community since the 1600s and later became a haven for artists seeking solitude.
Conservation
The island has strict guidelines to preserve its natural habitat, with efforts to protect nesting seabirds and native plant life.
Balmy Days Cruises
Discover the rugged charm of Monhegan Island with scenic boat cruises, hiking, and wildlife spotting. A Maine coastal adventure not to miss!
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.
Dress in layers
Weather can change quickly on the water and along the trails, so bring layered clothing.
Bring binoculars
For wildlife viewing and bird spotting around the island.
Wear comfortable shoes
Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes are best for the trails.
Pack sun protection
Sunblock, hats, and sunglasses are recommended for outdoor exposure.
Hiking shoes
Sturdy shoes with good grip for walking on rocky trails.
spring;summer;fall;winter
Waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and rain during boat trip or sudden weather changes.
spring;fall;winter
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing from land and sea.
Camera
Captures scenic ocean vistas and wildlife.