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Acadia National ParkLight shines on Bald Porcupine Island.
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Acadia National Park
Ranger-Narrated Boat Cruises
 

Spending time on the water can really enhance your visit to Acadia. Four boat cruises offered in conjunction with the park feature a park ranger onboard to tell the stories of the Maine coast. Explore the mysteries, life, and legends of sea, and learn about the lives of hardy Maine islanders.

Each of these ranger-narrated boat cruises are offered multiple times per week from late spring through early fall. Reservations are recommended. Please ask boat operators about accessibility. Schedules and fees vary; check the schedule of events for more information.

Be sure to check out the cruise essentials listed below. Boat operators recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before departure.

Baker Island Cruise (mid-June through mid-September)
Explore a remote, ocean-sculpted island seen by few visitors. Hop aboard a motorized launch for landing and discover the island’s unique natural and cultural history on a moderate hike with a park ranger. 4½ hours. Fee. Harbor Place, 1 West Street, Bar Harbor. Reservations: 207-288-2386.

Dive-In Theater Boat Cruise (mid-May through early October)
Cruise with a ranger through Frenchman Bay in search of seals, porpoises, and coastal bird life. Watch real-time video as a diver scours the ocean floor for marine life to bring aboard the boat for hands-on exploration. 3 hours. Fee. College of the Atlantic Dock. Advance Ticket Sales (through their reservation company): 800-979-3370 (US) or 212-209-3370 (international).

Frenchman Bay Cruise (mid-May through early October)
Climb aboard a majestic 151-foot, four-masted schooner in search of wildlife and history. 2 hours. Fee. Bar Harbor Inn Pier. Reservations: 207-288-4585.

Islesford Historical Cruise (mid-May through early October)
Discover the enduring connections between people and the sea. Search for wildlife as you cruise to Little Cranberry Island for a stop at the Islesford Historical Museum and explore the scenic fjord of Somes Sound. Municipal Pier, Northeast Harbor. 2½ hours. Fee. Reservations: 207-276-5352.

 

Don't forget to take along these essential items on a cruise:
* Warm, layered, and windproof/waterproof clothing for all seasons
* Comfortable walking shoes
* Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
* Water and snacks
* Binoculars and a camera

Acadia eCruise icon
Acadia eCruise
Set sail on a virtual tour of the islands and waters surrounding Acadia
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Park ranger wearing a ranger hat.
What's happening today? Next week? Next month?
Visit the schedule of events to learn more.
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A Passamaquoddy birchbark basket with the image of a moose on it  

Did You Know?
The Passamaquoddy Kit is an educational tool for teachers to help teach students about Passamaquoddy culture in Maine. The kit is a collaboration between the Abbe Museum and Acadia National Park staff.

Last Updated: July 23, 2008 at 10:10 EST