Downeast Maine Cruise
Cruise Overview
Downeast Maine Cruise
This 8-day journey, round-trip from Bangor, is the ultimate Maine experience and the perfect blend of scenic landscapes, rich history, and delicious, fresh seafood. In Belfast, admire magnificent sea captain mansions and explore its dynamic working waterfront. Experience an authentic lobsterbake on the shores of Rockland, while listening to a local bluegrass band. Take an evening cruise as the sun is setting in Bar Harbor, one of the most beautiful ways to witness Acadia National Park.
Venture to Bath, known as the “City of Ships,” on board our brand new class of catamaran-inspired small ships, and learn its fascinating maritime history on a guided walking exploration. In Boothbay, explore the largest botanical garden in New England, led by a naturalist. End your amazing adventure in Bangor, hometown of author Stephen King and once the “lumber capital of the world.”
Along the way, be treated to the best regional cuisine and an unsurpassed level of personalized service.
Downeast Maine Cruise Itinerary
Downeast Maine Cruise Itinerary
Day By Day Itinerary
- Pre-Cruise Bangor Pre-Cruise Package
- Day 1 Bangor, ME
- Day 2 Belfast, ME
- Day 3 Rockland, ME
- Day 4 Camden, ME
- Day 5 Bar Harbor, ME
- Day 6 Bath, ME
- Day 7 Boothbay Harbor, ME
- Day 8 Bangor, ME
Pre-Cruise
Our custom Pre-Cruise Package provides you with a seamless way to experience Bangor and easily board the ship. Arrive the day before your cruise and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a 1 night stay near to the dock, breakfast, luggage service, and transporation to the ship.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Bangor Pre-Cruise Package
Bangor Pre-Cruise Package
Experience all that Bangor has to offer, including a one-night stay at a premium hotel located close to the ship's dock. On the morning of embarkation, enjoy a full breakfast, luggage service, and transportation to the ship for a seamless boarding process.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.
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Day 1 - Bangor, ME
Start your journey in Bangor, the third-largest city in the state, located on the western bank of the picturesque Penobscot River. The proximity of the river made Bangor the “lumber capital of the world” for much of the 19th century, earning it the title of “Queen City” of Maine. Enjoy a Welcome Reception on board, before beginning your amazing voyage.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Welcome Aboard
Welcome Aboard
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.
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The Orono Bog Boardwalk – Complimentary Excursion
The Orono Bog Boardwalk – Complimentary Excursion
Experience the beauty and fascinating plants and wildlife of a Maine bog. The 1-mile boardwalk loop trail begins at a forested wetland edge in the Bangor City Forest, crossing the Orono town line into the portion of the Orono Bog owned by the University of Maine. View a wide range of changing vegetation and environments on your way to the open, peat moss carpeted center of the Orono Bog. Along the way, well-designed, full color signs provide illustrations and explanations of common species of bog plants and animals. Benches for rest and contemplation are provided at least every 200 feet.
Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessible: Yes
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Day 2 - Belfast, ME
Explore this charming little city which sits on a gentle hill above the Passagassawaukeag River. Hundreds of wooden sailing ships were built here in the 19th century, with a large part of the male population employed in the shipbuilding trades. This rich maritime heritage is reflected in the grand homes of sea-captains that are scattered throughout the area.
Today, Belfast is a rare combination of quiet small town juxtaposed with a vibrant social and cultural scene. Many of the ornate historic buildings of downtown now serve as homes and workshops for a cadre of local artists and artisans. With a variety of hiking trails, including the Belfast Rail Trail, Belfast is also a great place to get close to nature.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Belfast Historical Walking Exploration
Belfast Historical Walking Exploration
Perched on a hill overlooking the Penobscot Bay, Belfast is home to a dynamic and active waterfront. Join members of The Belfast Historical Society on a guided walk through downtown Belfast and the historic house district. Along the way learn about Belfast history, notable people and events, and architectural styles. Stop at the Belfast Museum to view and learn about the history of the 1864 Belfast Civil War Quilt, including was removed in 1864 and later returned in 2011 by way of Montana. After, enjoy additional time for self-guided exploration and shopping.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
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The Penobscot Marine Museum
The Penobscot Marine Museum
Discover Maine's oldest maritime museum to learn about the rich and unique maritime and shipbuilding history of the region. Explore the campus of beautiful historic buildings in the charming seacoast village of Searsport. Exhibits throughout include thousands of historic photographs, as well as an extensive collection of maritime artifacts and archives. Along the way, discover stories of ship captains and their families, the industries of Penobscot Bay, global maritime trade, and today’s fisheries.
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Day 3 - Rockland, ME
Rockland is an exciting town with a vibrant art culture and thriving lobster industry. Spend your time touring one of Rockland's unique museums, including the Owls Head Transportation Museum and the Farnsworth Art Museum. Explore downtown Rockland which features an eclectic collection of art galleries or relax on a park bench and watch classic schooners sail through the harbor.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Sail, Power, & Steam Museum Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Sail, Power, & Steam Museum Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
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
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Lobsterbake Luncheon - Complimentary Excursion
Lobsterbake Luncheon - Complimentary Excursion
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
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Rockland City Museum Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Rockland City Museum Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
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
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Day 4 - Camden, ME
Full of classic schooners, this charming village is considered the "Tall Ship Capital of Maine." Enjoy the warm summer sun and refreshing sea breezes as you relax and watch beautiful ships sail into the harbor. Walk Camden’s streets lined with shops and art galleries. Bring your camera to capture sweeping ocean vistas, placid coastlines, and panoramic views of Camden, Penobscot Bay, and the surrounding islands from atop Mount Battie.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Camden Hills State Park Experience
Camden Hills State Park Experience
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
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Camden Historical Walking Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Camden Historical Walking Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
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
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Lobstering & Lighthouse Cruise
Lobstering & Lighthouse Cruise
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
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Day 5 - Bar Harbor, ME
The natural beauty that surrounds Bar Harbor is accented with ocean cliffs, glacier‐formed lakes and valleys, stunning mountain vistas, and pine forest. This beauty has been captured in the works of Thomas Cole, Frederic Edwin Church, and many other great artists.
Lobstering is a centuries‐old industry that continues to thrive in Bar Harbor as well as boat building, another traditional business that is an important part of the economy. Though Bar Harbor region is best known for its outdoor activities, it is also home to small museums, cultural attractions, and historically significant landmarks.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Acadia National Park Exploration
Acadia National Park Exploration
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
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Hunters Beach and Brook Trail Nature Walk
Hunters Beach and Brook Trail Nature Walk
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
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Lobster Fishing & Seal Watching Cruise
Lobster Fishing & Seal Watching Cruise
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
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La Rochelle Mansion and Museum - complimentary
La Rochelle Mansion and Museum - complimentary
The Bar Harbor Historical Society is proud to offer an exclusive, private exploration of La Rochelle Mansion and Museum. You will be whisked back into the Gilded Age as you step under the wishbone staircase and into the magnificent foyer looking out on Frenchman Bay. While exploring this grand home, a local guide will provide the history of Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, and Mount Desert Island. Enjoy a glimpse into areas of the museum that are normally closed to the general public. With handcrafted woodwork, formal rooms, servant quarters, and wonderful gardens to see, La Rochelle Mansion and Museum is your opportunity to authentically witness life in the early 1900’s. Come explore this 1903 colonial revival, chateaux styled brick home with its 19 bedrooms, oceanfront piazza, and sunken garden!
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial
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Day 6 - Bath, ME
Long known as the “City of Ships,” Bath finds its identity in shipbuilding. From its architecture and cultural offerings to its urban downtown, Bath’s shipbuilding roots define its character. Walk Bath’s streets and admire the seaport’s tree-lined avenues, graced with classic examples of American architecture. Or explore the nationally acclaimed Maine Maritime Museum, which offers a variety of exhibits about Maine’s nautical history.
Excursions & Entertainment
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City of Ships Exploration
City of Ships Exploration
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
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Maine Maritime Museum Exploration
Maine Maritime Museum Exploration
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
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Freeport, Maine Shopping Transportation
Freeport, Maine Shopping Transportation
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
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Bath Town Shuttle
Bath Town Shuttle
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
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Captain Dave's Photo Safari
Captain Dave's Photo Safari
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: Lower / ADA Accessible: No
Day 7 - Boothbay Harbor, ME
Known as the “Boating Capital of New England,” Boothbay Harbor overflows with fishing vessels and pleasure crafts in equal numbers. Walk along Boothbay Harbor’s flower-lined streets, dotted with art galleries, antique stores, and specialty shops. Don't forget to visit the famous Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.
Excursions & Entertainment
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Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Guided Exploration
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Guided Exploration
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
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Boothbay Harbor Cruise
Boothbay Harbor Cruise
Experience the thrill of seal watching in Maine on a delightful Boothbay Harbor Cruise. Explore summer colonies, lighthouses, and small islands, maybe even spot a few seals on the ledges. Excitement awaits you as we pass by lighthouses, numerous islands, the stunning coastline, and both the inner and outer harbor.
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Day 8 - Bangor, ME
Bangor, the third-largest city in the state, is located on the western bank of the picturesque Penobscot River. The proximity of the river made Bangor the “lumber capital of the world” for much of the 19th century, earning it the title of “Queen City” of Maine.
Also known as the hometown to author Stephen King, Bangor is the inspiration of his fictional town of Derry, Maine, the setting of many of his novels. During your time in Bangor, view where Stephen King lived and worked on a guided excursion. Charter a boat and enjoy a fishing adventure in pursuit of the area’s renowned smallmouth bass.
Excursions & Entertainment
Ships
Ships Deck Plans, Staterooms
Upcoming Cruises
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