Getting on the water is one of the best things to do in Bar Harbor, and the wildlife cruises that leave from the waterfront are the easiest way to do it. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. runs a family of tours from its base on West Street: a longer offshore whale watch of roughly three to five and a half hours that heads into the Gulf of Maine in search of humpback, finback and minke whales; a puffin and lighthouse cruise of around two and a half to three hours that visits island nesting colonies and several lighthouses; a two-hour Acadia by Sea nature cruise along the islands and shoreline of the park; a two-hour sunset nature cruise on Frenchman Bay; and a short lobster fishing and seal watching trip of about an hour and three quarters, where guests watch lobster traps hauled and then visit a small island with seals. Naturalists on board explain what you see, and you may also spot porpoises, seabirds such as razorbills, guillemots and terns, and bald eagles along the shore. The whale watch carries a sighting guarantee in the form of a rebook voucher if no whales are seen, though policies can change, and whales are wild animals, so every trip is different. The season runs from spring into autumn, with the busiest months from July to September.
Choosing a cruise
For a first visit with a full day to spare, the offshore whale watch is the headline experience, but it is longer, can be bumpy and sometimes ends without a sighting, so it suits good sailors and enthusiasts. The puffin and lighthouse cruise is a strong second choice, with a good chance of seeing puffins in season, other seabirds and some of the coast's most scenic lights, and it travels in a stable boat. The Acadia by Sea and sunset nature cruises are gentler and cheaper, and the lobster and seal trip is an educational hour for families with younger children because it shows how lobster fishing actually works.
What to bring
Sea air is cold even in August, especially offshore, so bring a warm layer, a windproof jacket, a hat, gloves in spring or fall, sunscreen and sunglasses. Seasickness tablets can help if you are prone to motion sickness, and eating lightly before departure is wise. Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens are valuable, though the naturalist often points out sights before you see them yourself.
Boats have enclosed seating and decks, snack bars and restrooms, and most tours are accessible with some assistance. Book ahead online in summer and for sunset trips, which sell quickly, and check the weather because fog or high winds can lead to delays or cancellations.
Making the most of it
Arrive at least 30 minutes early, choose a seat with a view or a spot on the open deck, and listen to the safety briefing. Respect the wildlife by keeping a reasonable distance, following the crew guidance and avoiding feeding birds or throwing objects. A cruise can be paired with a land-based visit to the Abbe Museum or the Shore Path in the morning and a lobster dinner afterward.
If you prefer sail to engine, a windjammer trip is a quieter alternative, and if you are on a tight budget the shorter nature cruises give good value. Check the operator for current schedules, which vary by season.
What to expect
The experience
Narrated boat cruises from the Bar Harbor waterfront, from short lobster and seal trips to long offshore whale watches and puffin and lighthouse cruises.
Best time
July through September for the best whale and puffin chances; calm mornings; sunset cruises on clear evenings.
How long
From under two hours to about five and a half hours depending on the cruise.
Tips
Dress warmly, book ahead, take motion-sickness remedies if prone, and arrive early for check-in.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Wildlife lovers and anyone who wants to see Frenchman Bay from the water.
- Families
- The lobster and seal trip suits younger children; the long whale watch is better for older kids.
- Couples
- A sunset nature cruise is a calm, scenic evening.
- Pair with
- A walk on the Shore Path and a lobster dinner.
- Time needed
- Half a day for the long trips, two hours for the short ones.
Good questions
Will I see whales?+
Sightings are never guaranteed, since whales are wild animals. The operator offers a rebook voucher if no whales are spotted, but check current terms.
What animals can I see?+
Humpback, finback and minke whales, seals, porpoises, puffins, razorbills, guillemots, terns and bald eagles are all possible, depending on the trip and season.
When does the season run?+
Roughly from spring through autumn, with the busiest tours from July to September. Check the schedule for exact dates.
What should I wear?+
Warm layers, a windproof jacket and hat, even in summer, plus sunscreen and comfortable shoes.
Are the trips suitable for children?+
Yes. The shorter lobster and seal trip and nature cruises are family friendly, while the longer offshore trips suit older children.