Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise

Pre-Cruise

Our custom Pre-Cruise Package provides you with a seamless way to experience Portland 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 at the Marriott Residence, located in the heart of downtown and steps away from the dock.

Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Portland Pre-Cruise Package
  Portland Pre-Cruise Package

  Experience all that Portland has to offer, including a one-night stay at a premium hotel,  located in the heart of downtown Portland and close to the ship's dock. On the day of embarkation, enjoy a full breakfast and a narrated exploration of Portland visiting highlights of the city, concluding at 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 - Portland, ME

Portland is a region that perfectly blends the present with the past. The Old Port waterfront is made up of working fishing wharves and converted warehouses that now host a variety of eclectic restaurants and shops. 

Begin your adventure with a calm afternoon on the sun deck looking for whales and enjoying the stunning natural beauty of Maine’s rugged coast. Cape Elizabeth marks the entrance to the Portland Harbor where you can witness spectacular views as you start your journey with us.

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 - 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 3 - 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

• Smallmouth Private Fishing Charter
  Smallmouth Private Fishing Charter

  Enjoy a half day of fast fishing action on the Penobscot River aboard a custom seventeen-foot Alumacraft equipped with the latest safety and fishing equipment. Penobscot River is the premier smallmouth bass fishery on the East Coast. It’s not uncommon to catch 50 plus fish in a four-hour trip. Try your luck at catching some of the strongest fighting fish you can experience.

  This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.

  Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No

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• Stephen King’s Derry, Maine Exploration
  Stephen King’s Derry, Maine Exploration

  Enjoy a narrated exploration of Stephen King’s Derry, Maine, a fictional town based on Stephen King’s long-time hometown of Bangor, Maine. It is a place where King fans can come and see their favorite works come to life, as the maps of Derry and Bangor are similar. With the exception of a few name changes, many of the sites and landmarks remain the same. View various locations where Stephen King has lived, worked, as well as the places that served as his inspiration for various books and short stories, including IT, Insomnia, 11/22/63, and Bag of Bones.
  
  Please note: This excursion does not include meeting Stephen King or entry into the King house.

  Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No

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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

• 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 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

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Day 5 - 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 6 - 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 7 - 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

• Historic Homes of Bath Walking Exploration
  Historic Homes of Bath Walking Exploration

  Bath is home to many majestic private residences built during the town’s 19th-century shipping and shipbuilding heyday. On a guided exploration, admire the homes of sea captains and shipbuilders. Discover the enduring stories of these homes and their residents on a walk through Bath’s tree-lined neighborhoods where Greek-revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, and Victorian architecture abound.

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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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Day 8 - Portland, ME

After a refreshing and relaxing week of cruising Maine’s coast and harbors, end your journey where it began, in idyllic Portland. Enjoy breakfast on board, before departing the ship. You may decide to stay longer to explore this charming city, located in the heart of Casco Bay and steeped in maritime history.

Excursions & Entertainment

• Explore More in Portland
  Explore More in Portland

  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.

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