Downeast Maine Cruise

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

• 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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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

• 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, picturesque sea captain mansions, and the country’s oldest shoe store. Join a local Belfast historian for an exploration of the city’s historic districts. Follow part of Belfast’s outstanding “Museum in the Streets” along the waterfront and enjoy the 19th-century ambience of this residential district. The walk will end at the Belfast Museum, where you will be treated to exhibits illustrating Belfast’s fascinating history.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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• Local Color Gallery Art Appreciation Excursion
  Local Color Gallery Art Appreciation Excursion

  Enjoy a short walk to Local Color, one of Belfast’s multi-artist galleries. On a guided tour, learn about the history and techniques that have helped inspire many of Belfast’s renowned artists. Light refreshments will be provided.

  Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

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• Ananda Yoga and Wellness Experience
  Ananda Yoga and Wellness Experience

  pHonoring the traditional aspects of yoga, mindfulness and meditation, Ananda Yoga and Wellness creates an authentic experience for both new students and experienced yogis alike. Enjoy a one-hour class exclusively for cruise ship guests and aligned to your specific needs. The class will be led by one of the studio owners, a compassionate and experienced instructor. Come find your bliss.

  Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

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• Front Street Shipyard Walking Exploration
  Front Street Shipyard Walking Exploration

  Explore an active ship repair and construction business, right on the Belfast waterfront, which caters to the needs of every type of vessel, ranging from small recreational boats to commercial vessels and superyachts. Led by a guide, walk among the huge ships into towering work buildings and out to the largest boat lift north of Rhode Island. Hear how the shipyard repairs, restores, and creates various ships.

  Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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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

• 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 - 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

• Puffins & Lighthouses Cruise
  Puffins & Lighthouses Cruise

  Ride a state-of-the-art catamaran into Frenchman Bay and the Gulf of Maine to see the most sought-after iconic symbols of Maine: Puffins and Lighthouses! Along the way, view the Petit Manan, Egg Rock, and Winter Harbor lighthouses, while searching for puffins, razorbills, guillemots, ospreys, harbor porpoises, and eagles.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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• Somes Sound & Lighthouses Discovery
  Somes Sound & Lighthouses Discovery

  Cruise the Somes Sound aboard a state-of-the-art catamaran on a photographer’s dream discovery. View the picturesque lighthouses that adorn the scenery, including Egg Rock, Winter Harbor, Baker Island, and Bear Island Light. Admire the impressive mansions and historic landmarks along the way, as well as Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff.  

  Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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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 and Seal Watching Cruise
  Lobster Fishing and 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 5 - 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

• 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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Day 6 - Castine, ME

Castine, Maine is one of the oldest communities in North America, continuously occupied since the early 1600s. Canopied under century-old elms, the city boasts pristine, well-preserved 18th and 19th century Georgian and Federal homes, complemented by a walkable village of shops, galleries, restaurants, and historic sites. Known for its rich maritime tradition, Castine is also home to the renowned Maine Maritime Academy, a nationally-recognized college which provides training for world-class mariners and engineers, scientists and other career professionals.

For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities, both inland and along the coast, to enjoy the natural beauty of woodlands and rolling hills, as well as the scenic splendor of the harbor.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Castine Trolley
  Castine Trolley

  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

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• Castine Historical Walking Excursion
  Castine Historical Walking Excursion

  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

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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

• Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Guided Exploration
  Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Guided Exploration

  Enjoy the largest botanical garden in New England on a docent-led walking exploration. Discover the interesting history, horticulture education, and colorful explanations of the various Gardens, including the Lerner Garden of the Five Senses, a garden planned and created specifically to appeal to each of our senses.

  Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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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

• Continue the Journey
  Continue the Journey

  Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.

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