Island Cruises

Island Cruises: Your Gateway to the Quiet Side of Acadia

Located at 12 Little Island Way, Bass Harbor, ME 04653, Island Cruises is your premier travel agency for exploring the serene and picturesque landscapes of the Bar Harbor/Acadia area. Specializing in sailing, fishing, and nature cruises, Island Cruises offers an immersive experience that takes you off the beaten path to discover the hidden gems of Acadia National Park and its surrounding waters.

Our Offerings:

- Sailing, Fishing, and Nature Cruises: Embark on a two-hour tour where you’ll delve into Maine’s rich fishing heritage, encounter diverse wildlife, haul up a few lobster traps, and soak in breathtaking views of Acadia National Park. Our cruise routes include the iconic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and the outer islands of Blue Hill Bay, home to seals, nesting birds, and other fascinating wildlife.

- Private Fishing Charters: Enjoy a personalized day on the water with our experienced local captains who know all the best fishing spots. Whether you’re an avid angler or a novice, we’ll tailor a perfect fishing trip for you.

- Sightseeing Charters: Revel in the beauty of Acadia National Park from the water. Spot lighthouses, Cadillac Mountain, and a variety of wildlife including seals, eagles, and porpoises. Customize your trip with options like picnicking, hiking, or dockside dining on an offshore island (4-hour minimum).

- Sailing Adventures: Experience one of the world’s finest sailing destinations aboard our 36’ sailboat, Motu Iti. Sail through the pristine waters of Blue Hill Bay and enjoy the natural beauty and fresh breeze of Acadia National Park.

Why Choose Island Cruises?

- Intimate and Interactive: Unlike crowded Bar Harbor tours, our trips are designed to be leisurely and interactive. With a maximum of 49 passengers on our primary vessel, the 40-foot R.L. Gott, you’ll enjoy a more personal and engaging experience.

- Wildlife and History: From sunbathing seals to majestic eagles, marvel at wildlife in their natural habitats. Learn about the local history, fishing industry, and the lore of Bass Harbor from our knowledgeable local captain, Eli Strauss.

- Family-Owned and Operated: With 30 years of experience, Island Cruises is a family-owned business that prides itself on offering a friendly and informative service.

What Our Guests Say:

- "Amazing! Informative on historical, biological, cultural, and economic levels! Eli and Robin were wonderful guides, sharing interesting facts and stories. Despite the cold temps, we thoroughly enjoyed the tour."

- "The Afternoon Nature Cruise on the RL Gott was fantastic. We saw eagles, seals, and even a dolphin. The captain’s knowledge of the islands and their history was fascinating."

- "Capt. Eli and first mate Jill were great hosts. Eli’s knowledge of the islands and marine life made the trip worthwhile. We even saw a bald eagle and learned about lobster fishing."

Getting Here:

Escape the crowds of Bar Harbor and journey to the “quiet side” of Mount Desert Island. Drive through historic Somesville, visit the scenic Echo Lake, and explore Southwest Harbor with its rich boat-building heritage and charming shops. Don’t miss the Wendell Gilley Museum for its famous bird carvings.