Adventure Collective
Whale Watch Adventure in Bar Harbor, Maine - Portland, Maine

Whale Watch Adventure in Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harboreasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required aside from boarding the boat.

Overview

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.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Whale Watch

3 Hours up to 5.5 Hours • June-Early October • An Offshore Excursion into the Gulf of Maine!

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About This Adventure

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

An Adventure to Remember!

Duration

3 to up to 5.5 Hours

About

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

  • Vessels are wheelchair accessible.
  • Scripts are available upon request.
  • Certified guide dogs are welcome.

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:

  • Come rested & hydrated.
  • Avoid greasy and sugary foods or drinks.
  • Ginger chews or candied ginger can help settle your stomach.
  • Try medication such as Bonine or Non-Drowsy Dramamine. Take 1-2 hours BEFORE the trip depart the dock. After that it doesn't tend to work.
  • Acupressure wrist bands-non-medication option.
  • Stay outside in the fresh air and looking to the horizon.
  • The back of the boat and main level feels less motion. Avoid the higher levels and the front of the boat, which feel more motion.
  • Avoid racing to/staying in the bathrooms or the cabins if you feel unwell. These places will make you feel worse, so be prepared to be outside in the fresh air!
  • The captain and crew will let folks know what the sea conditions are before leaving the dock. Passengers have the chance to step off before trip departs and get refunded if worried about getting seasick. Refunds are not issued if you happen to get seasick during the trip.
  • Crew are available to help! Just let us know and we will be happy to help you!

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

Adventure Tips

Wear Layers for Changing Weather

Ocean conditions can shift quickly, so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the trip.

Bring Binoculars and a Camera

Enhance your experience with binoculars for distant sightings and a camera to capture unforgettable moments.

Arrive Early for Check-In

Plan to arrive 20 minutes before departure to complete check-in and hear a safety briefing.

Use Motion Sickness Remedies if Needed

If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative medication and choose a seat in the middle of the boat for smoother motion.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Humpback whale
  • Harbor seal

History

Bar Harbor has long been a coastal hub for fishing and maritime activities dating back to the 1800s, blending indigenous and settler histories.

Conservation

The Gulf of Maine is a protected marine ecosystem; tours support whale research and promote sustainable wildlife viewing practices.

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Adventure Hotspots in Portland, Maine

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Jacket

Essential

Protects against wind and spray while on the open ocean.

spring specific

Sunglasses

Essential

Reduces glare from the water and helps protect your eyes on sunny days.

summer specific

Binoculars

Enhances whale and wildlife viewing from a distance.

Motion Sickness Medication

Helpful for those prone to seasickness during the boat ride.