Maine Coast & Harbors Cruise

Each Maine Coast & Harbors cruise comes complete with a Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. 

On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.

Climb on board a quaint trolley at the town dock for a narrated exploration of the remarkable history and beautiful sites of Castine. Learn the meaning of “Four Flags” and admire the magnificent historic architecture and gardens of seafarers past. Visit The Castine Historical Society, The Wilson Museum, and the picturesque Dyce’s Head Lighthouse. Discover one of America’s finest inventoried collections of elm trees, entitled Under the Elms and By the Sea. View the campus, facilities, and many training vessels of Maine Maritime Academy, one of the finest institutions of its kind in the nation.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Beginning at the town dock, join a local guide on a half-mile exploration of Castine’s charming historic district. Stop at the local Historical Society to learn about the town’s rich heritage, including its role as a significant military site through the American Revolution and War of 1812. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, adorned with beautiful architecture, gardens, and elm trees. Explore the nearby boatyard and Maine Maritime Academy’s waterfront training area and take time to peruse the districts many shops and galleries. (Note: The historic district is located on a somewhat steep hill.)

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Acadia National Park encompasses 47,633 acres of granite-domed mountains and ocean shoreline. Enjoy an excursion that features two stops inside the Park: The top of Cadillac Mountain (highest point on the eastern seaboard at 1500+ ft.) and Thunder Hole with a spectacular ocean view. This excursion will take you to the must see places of Acadia, all the while providing you with the stories behind the sights. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Enjoy a nature-filled walking experience with a State of Maine Certified Wilderness Guide. Walk along Hunters Beach and through Hunters Brook Trail known and discover the amazing geologic and natural history of this unique ecosystem. Learn about the flora and fauna, watch for porcupines and owls, and observe seals in the waves. The naturalists are extremely knowledgeable and will bring a sense of adventure to your walk!

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No

Come aboard the Miss Samantha, a 56’ vessel with ample bench seating, a touch tank for ocean critters, and an open bow for photography and viewing opportunities. Watch experienced fisherman haul in lobster traps from the ocean floor as a professional naturalist describes everything and answers all your questions about lobster fishing and marine wildlife. Once the traps are hauled in, you can touch lobsters, crabs, sea cucumbers, sea stars, and anything else comes up from the sea floor. About half way through the cruise, you will head off to a small island to view seals basking on the rocks or swimming in the nearby water. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Just before enjoying the Lobsterbake Luncheon at Sharp’s Point South, visit the Sail Power & Steam Museum, a working “hands on” museum with sail making and rigging rooms. Enjoy “make ‘n break” gas stationery and steam engines, old ship building tools, hand tools, and architectural builder’s half models.

The museum has a complete boat shop with caulking tools, a working sail maker’s bench, and a navigation room with two working radars. Also in the museum is a shipwreck room featuring wrecks of 1898, a real working lime kiln, and an extensive model display of schooners and steam boats of the Penobscot.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

One of the highlights of our New England itineraries is the traditional Lobsterbake. This tradition pre-dates America itself, beginning thousands of years ago with the Native Americans. 

Our version of this long held New England summer tradition is very much the same, featuring fresh lobsters, steamed clams and mussels, warm corn on the cob, and baked rolls, prepared on a fire along the beach. In addition to the finest seafood in the area, we also feature live music presented by talented local musicians.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Explore the museums of Rockland with visits to Owls Head Transportation Museum and Farnsworth Museum. The Owls Head Transportation Museum has one of the finest collections of pioneer-era aircraft and automobiles in the world. More than 100 historic aircraft, automobiles, bicycles, carriages, and engines are on permanent display. Enjoy the museum’s outstanding collection, view late 19th-century automobiles, or even ride in a Model T.

The Farnsworth Museum features the permanent collection, “Maine in America,” which focuses on Maine artists and The Wyeth Center. The Farnsworth Art Museum is one of only two centers in the country dedicated to the three generations of Wyeths: N.C., Andrew, and James Wyeth.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Known as the Jewel of the Maine Coast, Camden is nestled between the Penobscot Bay and the rugged Mount Battie. Enjoy a narrated journey through Camden Hills State Park and a stop at the top of the mountain for stunning panoramic views of shining lakes, the busy harbor, and the islands of the Penobscot Bay. The exploration continues through the villages of Camden and Rockport, as well as the notable Rockport Belted Galloways. Next, stop at Rockport Harbor's Marine Park, featuring historic lime kilns, lobster boats, and the statue of Rockport's famous seal Andre.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Take a cruise from Camden Harbor with Captain Dominic aboard the Periwinkle. Watch a live lobster fishing demonstration and learn about these iconic Maine crustaceans-with the opportunity to hold a live lobster! Enjoy scenic views of Curtis Island Lighthouse, idyllic landscapes, and abundant wildlife that may include sea birds, eagles, seals and porpoise. Sit back, relax, and take it all in, or volunteer to help the crew for the true experience!  

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Join a local guide for a walking exploration of Camden, the prettiest harbor on the Maine Coast.  As you weave through the streets, learn about the history of this quaint port from its industrial beginnings through its current status as the hub for yachting in Maine. View beautiful architecture and landscaping designs along the way. After the walk, explore Camden at your leisure.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Hidden on the Boothbay peninsula is New England's most extensive botanical garden. Immerse yourself in more than 300 acres of stunning gardens, walking trails, and educational resources. From the Native Butterfly and Moth House to the Rhododendron and Perennial Garden, there is something for everyone.  

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

History awaits on an immersive and interactive exploration of quaint downtown Bath, led by a local educator. Learn Bath's fascinating story by walking among the charming period buildings, hearing unique stories, and uncovering hidden gems. This excursion is designed for those who love history and offers something for everyone. You will leave with a new appreciation for Bath, Maine, and American history.

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: 

Explore the Maine Maritime Museum at your leisure and experience Maine’s rich seafaring history on the banks of the Kennebec River. From watercraft and lobstering, to shipbuilding and sea trade, see how a shipbuilder’s family lived in the 1890s, smell the sawdust from historic ships, and discover the wonders and mysteries of Maine’s maritime culture.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Take this convenient shuttle to The Freeport Outlets, home to L.L. Bean Factory Store. Explore this laid-back shopping destination, featuring a variety of name-brand outlet stores, craft boutiques, and eateries.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Long known as the “City of Ships,” Bath’s shipyards line its river’s edge and Bath-built vessels sail the seas of the world. Hop aboard the town trolley, which picks up at the Maine Maritime Museum, and enjoy a ride around town with stops in the Downtown area.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Hop aboard the Rockin' Spartan for a private photography and sightseeing exploration by boat around the scenic Mid-coast Maine area captained by USCG Captain Dave Cleaveland, a longtime professional photographer in Maine. During the trip, you will have the opportunity to see eagles, osprey, seals and other wildlife, up to 10 lighthouses, several different rivers, working lobster boats, a Civil War fort, fishing villages, and Boothbay Harbor. Need a little help with your photography? Captain Dave will get you in the right spot for the best light for your photos and will help you with your photography skills.

Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: No

Visit the Gaffney family farm, Eros Oyster, a working oyster farm on Robinhood Cove, Georgetown Island. Be greeted by one of the farmers who will introduce you to the business, its history, and the technology used to grow oysters.  
 
Take a short walk to the waterfront to see the operation up-close. View the nursery where oyster babies are fed 24/7 in giant test tubes, as well as the shaker table and tumbler where the farmers shape and sort the oysters at every stage of growth. See the culling tables where market-ready oysters are selected for delivery or shipment overnight to customers around the country.  
 
At a scenic site overlooking the Cove, learn how to shuck (and eat) oysters on the half shell. Enjoy some just-harvested chilled oysters, which you can shuck yourself or with the help of a farmer. As you savor this delectable treat, you will have a chance to ask questions as well as purchase merchandise as well as additional oysters to bring back to the ship.

Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: Yes

There is no better way to experience Portland’s craft wines, beers, and spirits than aboard the Maine Brews Cruise Bus. Led by an engaging guide, get an inside look at a local distillery, winery, and brewery where you can partake in samples. Along the ride, enjoy fun beer trivia and history. Whether you are an amateur sipper or a full-on connoisseur, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Drink through Portland beer history on this leisurely walking excursion. Visit and learn about notable Portland landmarks, including numerous former brewery sites, the U.S. Custom House, the Workingmen’s Club, the Mariners’ Church, the Seamen’s Club, and the working waterfront that was essential for importing many goods and the exporting of alcohol, during times of prohibition. As part of this historical journey, we will stop at 3 legendary Portland breweries for a sample of craft beer, including Shipyard Brewing Company, Sebago Brewing Company, and Gritty McDuff’s.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

Board the Elizabeth Grace for a cruise around scenic Portland Harbor and out into Casco Bay. While sipping local craft beer, keep your eyes open for potential seal sightings, as well as the multiple lighthouses, islands, and forts. Light refreshments, including non-alcoholic beverages are available throughout.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

Portland is Maine’s largest city-by-the-sea. The Old Port waterfront features working fishing wharves and converted warehouses with restaurants and shops. The Western Promenade is a public park atop a bluff, offering river and mountain views. Its surrounding district, the West End, is full of Victorian-era homes

Meet your local guide for a narrated exploration. View Longfellow’s boyhood home, sea captains’ houses and the elegant Victorian Mansion. Travel through historic neighborhoods overlooking the islands of Casco Bay in Portland Harbor. Stop at Portland Head Lighthouse in Fort Williams Park, a historic landmark and the most photographed lighthouse in America.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Board the Elizabeth Grace for this exclusive, one-of-a-kind experience. The stone fortresses built in the early 19th century in Portland Harbor are imposing reminders of days in the not so distant past when the defense of our coastline required their presence. Despite their prominence, the forts are not easy to access for a variety of reasons, and most locals and visitors have never been to Fort Scammel, the only fort in the Portland Harbor to see active combat. On your way to the fort, enjoy some other great sights of the bay, including iconic lighthouses. Upon arrival, explore the grounds of this impressive historic structure. 

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: NO

Stay an extra day or two to enjoy all that Portland has to offer. Visit one of Portland’s many museums and art galleries or peruse the specialty boutiques in the city’s celebrated Old Port. Ask your onboard Hotel Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.