Maine Coast & Harbors Cruise
Portland, ME to Bangor, ME
Bangor, ME to Portland, ME
As your intimate small ship glides through the picturesque Portland Harbor and out into Casco Bay, keep a watch for seals while marveling at the array of lighthouses, islands, and forts that dot the coastline. Travel to Bath, where you can visit a family-owned oyster farm for a glimpse into the history and technology behind oyster cultivation, along with a chance to savor the briny fruits of their labor.
In Boothbay Harbor, discover the splendor of New England's most extensive botanical garden, where acres of vibrant flora and meandering trails invite exploration. Meanwhile, in Rockland, delight in the tantalizing aroma of an authentic lobsterbake as you witness the unveiling of a feast fit for royalty, expertly prepared according to time-honored traditions. Join a local guide for a walking exploration of Camden, the prettiest harbor on the Maine Coast.
In Bar Harbor, the adventure continues with a narrated journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Acadia National Park, followed by a leisurely stroll along the quaint streets of downtown, lined with unique boutiques and fine restaurants. Visit the Penobscot Marine Museum, which brings Maine's maritime history to life on a campus of beautiful historic buildings in the charming seacoast village of Searsport. Finally, in Bangor, feel the spirit of Stephen King, the author's longtime hometown which inspired the fictional town of Derry, Maine.
Upcoming Dates & Fares
Itinerary
Map & Itinerary Overview
From cultural landmarks to scenic landscapes, each destination along the Maine Coast cruise offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and local flavor, with stops in Portland, Bath, Rockland, Camden, Bar Harbor, Bucksport, and more.
Day 1 - Portland, ME
Start your journey in Portland, where history meets modernity in a perfect blend of the old and the new. Your Maine Coast & Harbors cruise includes a Hotel Stay, ensuring a smooth transition to boarding the ship and providing time to explore the surrounding locale. At your leisure, discover the charm of working fishing wharves intertwined with converted warehouses that now house the city’s best eclectic restaurants and shops. This area is one of the most well-preserved Victorian-era urban areas in the United States.
On the moring or your cruise, gather in the hotel lobby and we will take you to the ship to start your adventure. All your bags will be transferred directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship, making the beginning of your New England cruise experience seamless and worry-free.
Day 2 - Day of Cruising the Maine Coast
Step aboard your ship and set sail into a captivating experience. Begin with a warm Welcome Reception. Be treated to cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and lively entertainment. This is the perfect time to meet your attentive crew, onboard experts, and fellow guests.
Head up to the sun deck, watch the waves crest beneath you and see if you can spot any of Maine’s active marine life. As you set sail, be welcomed by Cape Elizabeth, which diligently guards the entrance to Portland Harbor with its stoic lighthouses and cascading cliffs.
Day 3 - Bath, ME
Here, in the “City of Ships”, the echoes of shipbuilding resound through the historic streets. Feel the weight of maritime history as you stroll along Bath's avenues, lined with elegant examples of American architecture from bygone eras. Notice the intricate detailing of the Federal-style buildings and the grandeur of the Greek Revival mansions that speak to Bath's illustrious past.
For an immersive experience into the city's history, don't miss the nationally acclaimed Maine Maritime Museum. Step into the museum's halls and explore a fascinating array of exhibits, from meticulously crafted ship models to interactive displays showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Maine's shipbuilders.
Learn about the lives of sailors and shipbuilders who once walked these streets, and gain insight into the intricate process of constructing the majestic vessels that sailed the world's oceans. From the early days of wooden shipbuilding to the modern innovations of today, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through Bath's legacy that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages.
Day 4 - Boothbay Harbor, ME
Welcome to the "Boating Capital of New England" – Boothbay Harbor, where the maritime spirit thrives. Stroll along its colorful, flower-lined streets, emanating with the energy of fishing vessels and pleasure crafts. Explore the town's dynamic scene, from charming art galleries and antique stores to specialty shops bursting with treasures.
Make sure to carve out time for a visit to the renowned Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, tucked away on the Boothbay peninsula, where over 300 acres of stunning gardens and walking trails await. Step into the enchanting world of the Native Butterfly and Moth House or bask in the beauty of the Rhododendron and Perennial Garden – there's something for everyone.
To see this port in a unique way, hop aboard a Boothbay Harbor Cruise for a seal-watching expedition. Brace yourself for breathtaking views of lighthouses, secluded islands, and the rugged coastline as you keep an eye out for playful seals basking on the ledges. Get ready to be swept away by the excitement as we cruise through the inner and outer harbor, uncovering the hidden gems of this captivating coastal haven.
Day 5 - Rockland, ME /Camden, ME
Get ready to dive into the lively vibe of Rockland, a bustling hub brimming with artistry and lobster lore. Explore the town's vibrant museums like the Owls Head Transportation Museum and the Farnsworth Art Museum, showcasing an eclectic mix of pioneer-era aircraft, automobiles, and masterpieces by Maine artists, including the renowned Wyeth family. Wander through downtown Rockland's eclectic art galleries or kick back on a park bench, soaking in the sight of classic schooners slicing through the harbor waters.
Full of classic schooners, explore charming village of Camden, considered the "Tall Ship Capital of Maine." Enjoy the summer sun and refreshing sea breezes as you watch beautiful ships sail into the harbor or browse the quaint shops and art galleries. Bring your camera to capture ocean vistas, placid coastlines, and panoramic views of Camden, Penobscot Bay, and surrounding islands from atop Mount Battie.
Day 6 - Bar Harbor, ME
Situated on the coast of Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is surrounded by ocean cliffs, glacier-formed lakes, and majestic mountains that have fueled the creativity of legendary artists like Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church.
Engage in the heart of Acadia National Park for exhilarating exploration, trekking through the enchanting Hunter's Beach and Brook Trail Nature Walk. Experience the thrill of the centuries-old lobstering industry firsthand on a Lobster Fishing & Seal Watching Cruise.
Fuel your curiosity with plenty of outdoor activities, while uncovering hidden gems in small museums, cultural attractions, and historic landmarks that add depth and excitement to this dynamic region.
Day 7 - Bucksport, ME
Ignite your exploration in the historic seaport town of Bucksport. See the tall steeples stick out of the trees along the picturesque waterfront adorned with scenic gardens and tranquil fountains. While once a bustling hub for the paper-making industry, Bucksport now thrives as the training center for the Maine Maritime Academy, brimming with new energy and opportunities.
But that's not all –the town's stories are told here on the Penobscot River and at the iconic Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory. Towering taller than the Statue of Liberty, this architectural marvel offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the bay, the sprawling Maine countryside, and the majestic western mountains. And don't miss the chance to explore the historic Fort Knox one of the best-preserved military fortifications on the New England Coast.
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 visit, charter a boat and enjoy a fishing adventure in pursuit of the area’s renowned smallmouth bass.
Day 9 - Bangor, ME
As you begin to pack and say goodbye to the Pine Tree state, we’re so glad we were able to show you this part of America on our Maine Coast & Harbors cruise. The Penobscot River, a lifeline during the logging era, now gently curves through the city, offering peaceful trails and stretching avenues. Enjoy one more breakfast on board before continuing home.
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.
Explore Bath, the fourth largest seaport in the U.S. in the mid- 1800s. Led by a local guide, enjoy an immersive, personalized, and fun walk along the quaint, yet vibrant, streets of this picturesque downtown. As you view the places where history unfolded, hear stories about the prominent people and events of this 19th-century center of shipbuilding worldwide. Learn about Maine’s geologic features and natural resources, native peoples, European settlement, role in the Civil War and World Wars, as well as the post-war preservation efforts that made Bath what it is today. You will walk away with an understanding of Bath and Maine's roles in American history.
Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
Explore the Maine Maritime Museum at your leisure and experience Maine’s rich seafaring history on the banks of the Kennebec River. From historic watercraft restoration to blacksmithing, lighthouses to lobstering, a Victorian home to contemporary interpretations of “maritime,” discover a connection to the past, present, and future of Maine’s waterways, and along the way discover the real Maine.
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 Bath Town Shuttle, which picks up at the Maine Maritime Museum, and enjoy a ride around town with stops at the General Store, Visitor Center, and Downtown area.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial
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
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
Travel back in time on a scenic stroll through the 17th-century fishing village, Boothbay Harbor. Your guide will regale you with stories and historical facts about the village dating back to over 200 years ago. Some of the locations you may see along the way include: the Tugboat Inn, Bristol Marine Shipyard, Mariner’s Church, Historic Boothby Square, Fisherman’s Memorial, the Opera house, and more! Note: this excursion is held rain or shine.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No
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
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
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
This cruise is one of the most beautiful ways to experience Frenchman Bay and Acadia National Park. Begin your nature cruise, following the east coast of Mount Desert Island and offering narration and opportunities to see the most stunning shoreline of Acadia National Park. Look for bald eagles, peregrine falcons, harbor porpoise, seals, and other wildlife. Your cruise will feature a professional naturalist who is excited to share interesting stories of natural and human history, provide a running narrative, and answer your questions Binoculars and/or a long zoom lens are recommended for viewing wildlife such as seals and eagles.
Enjoy Fort Knox and the Penobscot Narrows Observatory at your leisure. The Fort is one of the best-preserved military fortifications on the New England Seacoast. Named after Major General Henry Knox, America's first Secretary of War, the fort was established in 1844 to protect the Penobscot River Valley against a possible future British naval invasion.
Admire its many unique architectural features and learn about the rich history behind its walls. Continue to the Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory, the tallest bridge observatory open to the public in the world. Take a ride on Maine’s fastest elevator up 420’ where you can delight in spectacular 360-degree views of the Penobscot River and Bay, the Maine countryside, and the distant western mountains. End your exploration at the Visitor Center to view more artifacts from the Fort.
Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessible: Partial
Penobscot Marine Museum brings Maine’s maritime history to life on a campus of beautiful historic buildings in the charming seacoast village of Searsport, Maine. In addition to traveling exhibits, core exhibits throughout the campus tell unique stories of ship captains, crew, and their families, as well as the industries of Penobscot Bay, global maritime trade, and today’s fisheries. After exploring at your leisure, enjoy a guided exploration of the Fowler-True-Ross House. Built in 1806, the home features classic Federal-style architecture, beautiful 19th-century art, textiles, and furniture.
Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessible: No
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
Built in 1834, Bangor’s 264-acre Mount Hope Cemetery is the nation’s second-oldest garden cemetery and is on the National Register for Historic Places. It was designed by renowned architect Charles G. Bryant as part of a national movement to provide respite from grassless urban landscapes. Today it is still a lively place where people regularly walk and jog past tall trees and picturesque ponds. You may catch sight of turtles, frogs, muskrats, ducks, and occasionally even the resident great blue heron. During this Madame History guided excursion, visit some of the cemetery’s most unique and notable monuments, including the nation’s first Civil War memorial. You will also learn about 19th-century life in Bangor as told through gravestone symbology, mourning practices, and stories of Mount Hope’s most interesting permanent residents.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Travel back in time to walk the streets of Bangor’s historic downtown with the notorious Madam Fan Jones, as she shares true and dramatic tales of the people and events that shaped the 19th-century “lumber capital of the world.” During the great lumber boom of the 1800s, the city of Bangor, Maine was famous for its wealth, refinement, and industry –and a good deal of vice and violence. While the lumber barons, politicians, and other members of polite society spent time in their well-appointed offices and fine estates, those in their employ toiled deep in the woods, out on the mighty river, or in their factories. Lumbermen, river drivers, sailors, Irish laborers, and other members of the working class worked hard –and played harder– entertaining themselves with booze, brawls, and brothels -- like Fan's Sky Blue House of Pleasure -- in the infamous “Devil’s Half Acre” before stumbling back to tenements, ships, and the woods. This lively excursion shines a light on the city’s complex history while showcasing some of the monuments and architecture of the great city on the Penobscot.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes
Visit the museums of Bangor aboard this convenient shuttle making stops at:
- The Cole Land Transportation Museum - The museum is home to over 200 vehicles that span the history of transportation in Maine. The purpose is to collect, preserve, and display (before they disappear forever) a cross section of Maine’s land transportation equipment from which this and future generations will gain knowledge of the past. Whether you like trains, trucks, snowmobiles or classic cars, anyone can find something interesting and learn something new!
- Bangor Historical Society - Established in 1864, the Bangor Historical Society is Maine’s second oldest historical society. The BHS is home to an extensive collection of Bangor artifacts and one of the region’s largest collections of Civil War memorabilia—including Joshua Chamberlain’s sword from the Battle of Gettysburg.
- Thomas A. Hill House - The Thomas A. Hill House was built in 1835 and was designed by renowned American architect Richard Upjohn. The museum offers guided and self-guided experiences through Bangor’s history discussing the settling of Bangor, the lumber boom, the great fire of 1911, well known area people/families, Maine and the Civil War, and so much more.
- Zillman Art Museum - Part of the University of Maine, this museum features a collection of more than 4,000 original works of art with a focus American mid-20th century works on paper. In addition to rotating exhibits, the museum’s permanent collection celebrates the long heritage of Maine art and artists, including works by artists such as Berenice Abbott, Winslow Homer, and Andrew Wyeth.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.
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
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.
Map & Itinerary Overview
From cultural landmarks to scenic landscapes, each destination along the Maine Coast cruise offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and local flavor, with stops in Portland, Bath, Rockland, Camden, Bar Harbor, Bucksport, and more.
Day 1 - Bangor, ME
This charming city where the arts flourish and history comes alive is the perfect place to begin your cruise around Maine’s coast. Your cruise includes a Hotel Stay, ensuring a smooth transition to boarding the ship and exploring the surrounding locale.
At your leisure, explore the historic Bangor Opera House, which stands as a grand sentinel of culture, hosting performances that have delighted audiences for over a century. Stephen King’s iconic red mansion, with its whimsical wrought iron gates featuring spiders and web motifs, offers a glimpse into the mind of the master storyteller who calls Bangor home. Adding to the mystique, many of Bangor’s shadowy avenues and Victorian buildings have served as the eerie backdrops in King’s haunting tales, making the town a living storyboard for his famed novels.
Day 2 - Day of Cruising the Maine Coast
Step aboard your ship and set sail into a captivating experience. Begin with a warm Welcome Reception. Be treated to cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and lively entertainment. This is the perfect time to meet your attentive crew, onboard experts, and fellow guests. Head up to the sun deck, watch the waves crest beneath you and see if you can spot any of Maine’s active marine life.
Day 3 - Bar Harbor, ME
Situated on the coast of Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is surrounded by ocean cliffs, glacier-formed lakes, and majestic mountains that have fueled the creativity of legendary artists like Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church.
Engage in the heart of Acadia National Park for exhilarating exploration, trekking through the enchanting Hunter's Beach and Brook Trail Nature Walk. Experience the thrill of the centuries-old lobstering industry firsthand on a Lobster Fishing & Seal Watching Cruise.
Fuel your curiosity with plenty of outdoor activities, while uncovering hidden gems in small museums, cultural attractions, and historic landmarks that add depth and excitement to this dynamic region.
Day 4 - Rockland, ME /Camden, ME
Get ready to dive into the lively vibe of Rockland, a bustling hub brimming with artistry and lobster lore. Explore the town's vibrant museums like the Owls Head Transportation Museum and the Farnsworth Art Museum, showcasing an eclectic mix of pioneer-era aircraft, automobiles, and masterpieces by Maine artists, including the renowned Wyeth family. Wander through downtown Rockland's eclectic art galleries or kick back on a park bench, soaking in the sight of classic schooners slicing through the harbor waters.
Full of classic schooners, explore charming village of Camden, considered the "Tall Ship Capital of Maine." Enjoy the summer sun and refreshing sea breezes as you watch beautiful ships sail into the harbor or browse the quaint shops and art galleries. Bring your camera to capture ocean vistas, placid coastlines, and panoramic views of Camden, Penobscot Bay, and surrounding islands from atop Mount Battie.
Day 5 - Bath, ME
Here, in the “City of Ships”, the echoes of shipbuilding resound through the historic streets. Feel the weight of maritime history as you stroll along Bath's avenues, lined with elegant examples of American architecture from bygone eras. Notice the intricate detailing of the Federal-style buildings and the grandeur of the Greek Revival mansions that speak to Bath's illustrious past.
For an immersive experience into the city's history, don't miss the nationally acclaimed Maine Maritime Museum. Step into the museum's halls and explore a fascinating array of exhibits, from meticulously crafted ship models to interactive displays showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Maine's shipbuilders.
Learn about the lives of sailors and shipbuilders who once walked these streets, and gain insight into the intricate process of constructing the majestic vessels that sailed the world's oceans. From the early days of wooden shipbuilding to the modern innovations of today, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through Bath's legacy that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages.
Day 6 - Boothbay Harbor, ME
Welcome to the "Boating Capital of New England" – Boothbay Harbor, where the maritime spirit thrives. Stroll along its colorful, flower-lined streets, emanating with the energy of fishing vessels and pleasure crafts. Explore the town's dynamic scene, from charming art galleries and antique stores to specialty shops bursting with treasures.
Make sure to carve out time for a visit to the renowned Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, tucked away on the Boothbay peninsula, where over 300 acres of stunning gardens and walking trails await. Step into the enchanting world of the Native Butterfly and Moth House or bask in the beauty of the Rhododendron and Perennial Garden – there's something for everyone.
To see this port in a unique way, hop aboard a Boothbay Harbor Cruise for a seal-watching expedition. Brace yourself for breathtaking views of lighthouses, secluded islands, and the rugged coastline as you keep an eye out for playful seals basking on the ledges. Get ready to be swept away by the excitement as we cruise through the inner and outer harbor, uncovering the hidden gems of this captivating coastal haven.
Day 7 - Day of Cruising
The day is yours to relax and enjoy cruising the scenic coast of Maine. Admire stunning views of picturesque harbors, islands, and secluded coves that are best explored by ship. Along the way, you may spot wildlife such as seals, puffins, and even whales.
Mingle with fellow guests in one of our lounges or lose yourself in the pages of a captivating book from the comfort of your private balcony. Don’t miss cocktail hour to share stories with your fellow travelers before sitting down for a dinner featuring fresh New England Seafood.
Day 8 - Portland, ME
Maine's most historic seaport overlooks beautiful Casco Bay. Spend your visit exploring its gallant 360-year history or check out its amazing cultural scene. Big-city excitement blends delightfully with small-town charm here as fishing vessels bustle in the harbor and Victorian-era buildings still line cobblestone streets.
Day 9 - Portland, ME
As your coastal cruising adventure draws to a close, conclude your journey in picturesque Portland. Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before disembarking from our Maine Coast & Harbors cruise. If you just aren’t ready to say goodbye, and you’d like to consider prolonging your stay to explore this charming city nestled in the heart of Casco Bay, your Hotel Manager can help you find a way to create even more memories in Maine.