A day in Lubec

Question

I was wondering if it’s possible to see the tides of the bay of Fundy in Lubec or do we need to go to Canada.

Otherwise would we have time to visit the west quoddy light and chart a boat to see the whirlpool.

Thanks for any suggestions.

Answer

Lubec, Maine, is the easternmost town in the United States and sits right on the Bay of Fundy, which is famous for having some of the highest tides in the world. While the highest tides of the Bay of Fundy occur further north in Canada (especially around the Minas Basin in Nova Scotia and the Hopewell Rocks in New Brunswick), you can still observe noticeable tidal changes from Lubec itself. You don’t need to cross the border to see the tide rise and fall, though it won’t be as dramatic as the Canadian sites.

West Quoddy Head Light:

This iconic lighthouse is a must-see in Lubec. It’s the easternmost point in the U.S. and offers beautiful coastal views. You can easily spend 30–60 minutes walking the grounds, taking photos, and enjoying the scenic cliffs.

Boat Tours and Whirlpool Observation:

While there are boat tours available in Lubec and nearby Eastport, you should plan ahead and check schedules. The waters around Lubec and Eastport are known for strong tidal currents, including the Quoddy whirlpool, but most commercial tours focus on wildlife viewing (whales, seals) and scenic cruises rather than strictly the whirlpool. A guided boat tour can give you both the chance to see tidal currents in action and enjoy the Bay of Fundy scenery safely.

Suggested itinerary for a day in Lubec:

Morning: Visit West Quoddy Head Light and explore the surrounding park.
Late morning/early afternoon: Walk along the shore or local trails to observe tidal changes in Lubec Bay.
Afternoon: Take a guided boat tour from Lubec or Eastport to see tidal currents, islands, and local wildlife; confirm if the tour passes through areas with noticeable whirlpools.
Optional: Quick stop at the Lubec Marine Museum or local shops for souvenirs and local history.

In short, you can see tidal changes from Lubec itself, though the most extreme tides are in Canada. Visiting West Quoddy Head Light is straightforward and worth the time, and a boat tour can provide a safe and scenic way to see whirlpools and the bay’s strong currents.