easy
3–4 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required aside from boarding the boat.
Set sail from Bar Harbor, Maine for a private whale watch adventure in the Gulf of Maine. Spot humpbacks, fin whales, dolphins, and seals while supporting vital marine conservation.
3 Hours up to 5.5 Hours • June-Early October • An Offshore Excursion into the Gulf of Maine!
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Gulf of Maine, where you'll search for majestic baleen whales and diverse marine life. With expert guides sharing insights on the region's history, this 3 to 5.5-hour trip promises excitement and education. Support whale research while enjoying the beauty of the open ocean!
Bookings Available December 11th, 2023
3 to up to 5.5 Hours
This trip is sure to be an experience to remember as you head offshore into the Gulf of Maine in search of large baleen whales such as the humpback, finback, and minke as well as other fascinating marine life!
Enjoy a ride out into the open ocean while on the lookout for porpoise, dolphins, seals, sharks, ocean sunfish, and offshore seabirds. While heading out in search of whales, your guide will educate you about the natural and cultural history of the Gulf of Maine!
Research interns with Allied Whale at the College of the Atlantic join us on every trip to collect information about the whales and other marine species!
When choosing Bar Harbor Whale Watch you help support whale research and conservation! !Description of image
BE SURE TO BRING:
WARM & WATERPROOF LAYERS! This includes hats, gloves, wind and/or rain gear. It is much colder out on the open ocean, even on a hot summer day, and the ride is windy when the boat is underway.
Passengers over 18 years of age must bring a valid photo ID.
AMENITIES
Galley has light snacks and bar, including hot and cold beverages. Warm clothing such as hats and sweatshirts available. CASH only for galley purchases.
Restrooms are available onboard the vessel.
Indoor and outdoor seating available. Seating is first come, first serve. Passengers are welcome to move around the vessel and stand along the rails throughout the trip.
ACCESSIBILITY
RESERVATION REQUIREMENTS:
When booking, please make sure to have tickets for all members in your party, including infants, as our vessels are certified to carry a specific number of passengers.
If you need to cancel or re-book please notify our ticket office no later than 24 hours before trip departure.
SIGHTING GUARANTEES
Whales are observed in their natural habitat 25-50+ offshore. Each trip is exploratory and a unique adventure! Sightings and weather conditions vary. If whales are not seen you will receive a voucher valid for three years from trip date. Refunds are not issued for this circumstance.
DON'T MISS THE BOAT!
We recommend arriving up to an hour early for boarding. Please arrive no later than 15 minutes before departure.
Municipal paid parking is available in downtown Bar Harbor and town pier. Parking spots can fill very quickly and traffic can cause delays getting into town. Make sure to leave early enough to find parking and get to the dock on time.
CANCELLATIONS
Trips can cancel due to weather conditions such as fog and high seas. Cancellations can be decided up to 30 minutes before trip departs and passengers are notified by email and automatically refunded. To re-book a trip, please contact our ticket office at 207-288-2386
SEASICKNESS-TIPS & TRICKS
Due to the duration and conditions of the open ocean, seasickness can be an issue for some.
Here are some tips:
RECOMMENDED FOR KIDS?
All ages are welcome!
Kids can certainly enjoy and learn a great deal whale watch trips! Just a few things to keep in mind:
Duration of trip-the boat can be out for up to 5+ hours. We have coloring pages and crayons on the boat, but it helps to bring some things to entertain the kiddos.
Safety- it is crucial to make sure kids have a parent or guardian with them AT ALL TIMES. We are out on the open ocean and kids tend to like to wander off, jump, run, climb, and swing on things they shouldn't and could potentially get badly injured. We need to make sure everyone, including kids, are following the safety rules!
Seasickness- kids tend to get seasick more easily. Being aware of the offshore conditions as well as keeping kids hydrated, in the fresh air, and avoiding sugary and greasy foods will help keep them from getting seasick.
HAVE QUESTIONS? VISIT THE FAQ PAGE OR CONTACT US AT INFO@BARHARBORWHALES.COM
Ocean conditions can shift quickly, so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Enhance your experience with binoculars for distant sightings and a camera to capture unforgettable moments.
Plan to arrive 20 minutes before departure to complete check-in and hear a safety briefing.
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative medication and choose a seat in the middle of the boat for smoother motion.
Bar Harbor has long been a coastal hub for fishing and maritime activities dating back to the 1800s, blending indigenous and settler histories.
The Gulf of Maine is a protected marine ecosystem; tours support whale research and promote sustainable wildlife viewing practices.
Protects against wind and spray while on the open ocean.
spring specific
Reduces glare from the water and helps protect your eyes on sunny days.
summer specific
Enhances whale and wildlife viewing from a distance.
Helpful for those prone to seasickness during the boat ride.