Downeast Maine Cruise

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.

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

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

Honoring 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

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

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.

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

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

Take a cruise from Camden Harbor with Captain Dominic aboard Lively Lady.  Watch a live lobster fishing demonstration and enjoy scenic views of Curtis Island Lighthouse, idyllic landscapes, and abundant wildlife.   

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.