Boat cruises?

Question

Looking for some boat cruise options for mid-July. We have 4 nights staying in Bar Harbor.

Any opinions on Puffin Lighthouse Cruise or Acadian Boat Tours? Acadian meets right in Bar Harbor while Puffin requires an hour drive. We can do either - a friend heard Puffin is great but hadn't done it herself. Thanks for advice.

Answer

If you're staying in Bar Harbor for 4 nights and looking for a boat cruise experience in mid-July, you're in the right place! Bar Harbor and the surrounding area offer a variety of scenic cruises, each with its own unique experience. Two popular options you mentioned are the Puffin Lighthouse Cruise and Acadian Boat Tours. Both are excellent choices, but each offers a different kind of adventure. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Puffin Lighthouse Cruise: This cruise is a bit of a drive (about an hour from Bar Harbor), but many people find it well worth the trip. The Puffin Lighthouse Cruise typically takes you out to some of the smaller islands off the coast, with an emphasis on wildlife viewing, particularly puffins and other seabirds. The tour also includes a visit to a historic lighthouse. It’s a great option if you're a nature lover and enjoy birdwatching. The cruise is typically more peaceful and less crowded, giving you a more intimate experience on the water. If you're especially interested in puffins, this is your best bet as they are the highlight of the trip. If you don’t mind the drive and want a chance to spot wildlife in a more remote setting, this could be a fantastic choice.

Acadian Boat Tours: Based right in Bar Harbor, this is an easier option logistically as you won’t have to drive far. Acadian Boat Tours offers a variety of cruises, including nature and wildlife tours, lighthouse tours, and sunset cruises. The most popular option is their "Nature Cruise," which takes you around the Acadia National Park coastline. This cruise also offers the chance to spot puffins, seals, and other marine wildlife, and you'll get beautiful views of the surrounding islands and coastal landscape. The main benefit of Acadian Boat Tours is the convenience – no need to drive, and the tours are very well-regarded by visitors. It’s a more accessible option for those who prefer not to spend too much time traveling, and you'll still get a great experience with knowledgeable guides.

Puffin Lighthouse Cruise: Ideal for nature lovers who want to spot puffins and visit a remote lighthouse.
Acadian Boat Tours: Convenient, right in Bar Harbor, with a variety of scenic tours and wildlife sightings, including puffins.
Other Options: If neither of these options seems perfect, consider a sunset cruise or a sailing tour to enjoy Acadia from a different perspective.

Ultimately, both options offer great experiences, so your choice depends on what you’re most interested in. If you’re more into wildlife and don’t mind the extra travel time, the Puffin Lighthouse Cruise is a great choice. However, if convenience and variety are more important, Acadian Boat Tours would be a solid pick, with more tour options and no need for an extra drive.

Whichever you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the beautiful coastline and stunning views of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park!