What types of whales can I expect to see?

You can commonly see humpback whales, fin whales, and occasionally minke whales, along with dolphins and seals.

Are trips suitable for children?

Yes, trips are family-friendly, but children should be supervised at all times and comfortable with boat travel.

Is food or drink available onboard?

Some trips offer light refreshments, but it’s recommended to bring water and snacks just in case.

What is the cancellation policy for private tours?

Cancellation policies vary; please check directly with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company at the time of booking.

How close do boats get to the whales?

Boats maintain a safe and respectful distance of at least 100 yards to protect the animals.

What should I do if I get seasick?

Take motion sickness medication before boarding if you’re prone to it, sit mid-boat, and focus on the horizon.

Whale Watch Adventure in Bar Harbor, Maine

Experience the thrill of whale watching in the pristine waters of the Gulf of Maine with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company. This private adventure takes you from the charming coastal town of Bar Harbor out into the open ocean, where you’ll have the chance to spot magnificent baleen whales, including humpbacks and fin whales. Along the way, playful dolphins and curious seals often make appearances, adding to the excitement. Expert guides onboard share deep knowledge about marine life, behaviors, and ongoing conservation efforts, making every trip educational and enriching. Each excursion supports vital research initiatives aimed at protecting these incredible creatures and their habitat. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a first-time whale watcher, this experience offers a unique connection to nature and the sea. With calm seas and breathtaking ocean views, Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company ensures a safe and memorable adventure, ideal for families, couples, and groups looking for a private, intimate encounter with Maine's marine giants.

About Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company operates out of Bar Harbor, Maine, offering a range of guided boat tours that showcase the Gulf of Maine, Frenchman Bay, Acadia National Park, and Downeast coastline. The company runs whale watch trips that search for baleen whales and other marine life while supporting whale research. Shorter wildlife cruises include Puffin and Lighthouse Cruises and Acadia By Sea Nature Cruises that highlight puffins, seals, bald eagles, iconic lighthouses, and historic summer homes. For sunset experiences, the Sunset Happy Hour Nature Cruise combines wildlife viewing, shorelines of Acadia National Park, and live music. Lobster Fishing and Seal Watching trips sail aboard the Miss Samantha, described as Maine's largest lobster passenger boat, where guests haul lobster traps and learn from a professional naturalist. Longer all-day adventures include Cashes Ledge Whale & Seabird Cruises and the Bold Coast & Canada Grand Slam Lighthouse Cruise to Grand Manan Island, each led by marine experts or seasoned guides and focusing on seabirds, lighthouses, and vibrant marine ecosystems.

Seasonal and special itineraries such as the Penobscot River Fall Foliage 10 Lighthouse Cruise and Downeast Offshore Seabirds & Lighthouse Cruise offer fall foliage, photography guidance, and visits to multiple historic lighthouses. Tours are presented with knowledgeable naturalists and expert guides who provide regional history and wildlife interpretation, making each trip educational and suitable for families, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Reservations are limited on select cruises, with many trips emphasizing photography, conservation education, and close coastal scenery for memorable experiences and expert narration.