Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.

Experience Stunning Wildlife in Bar Harbor

Visitors to Bar Harbor are greeted with not only a breathtaking setting but also the opportunity to witness an array of spectacular wildlife. Among the most enthralling experiences is the chance to see various kinds of whales in the Gulf of Maine, most commonly viewed on a whale watching cruise offered by the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company.

Tour Duration and Details

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company is conveniently located downtown and offers whale watching tours from late May until mid-October, boasting a high accuracy rate in spotting marine life each day. Their high-speed catamarans enable the tour to catch up to whales spotted from a distance efficiently.

Each tour lasts approximately three to five hours, typically venturing 30 to 50 miles offshore, where whales frequently gather. Tours begin at the northern end of the Shore Path, adjacent to the Town Pier.

Best Time to Go

The whale watching season runs from late May through September, coinciding with the whales' migration to the gulf to feed on plankton, fish, sand eels, and more. During this period, you may spot humpback, pilot, finback, and minke whales, alongside toothed varieties such as Atlantic white-sided dolphins and harbor porpoises. Occasionally, you might also see Sei and right whales. Additionally, the coastline is home to numerous harbor and grey seals.

Tickets and Scheduling

Tours operate once or twice daily, with departures at 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., or 2:30 p.m., depending on the season. Ticket prices are as follows:

• Adults: Starting at $88
• Children (ages 6 to 14): Starting at $68
• Children (5 and younger): $33

Recent Reviews

Recent visitors highly recommend the whale watching tour, often describing it as a must-do activity. Many applauded the local guides for their extensive knowledge and appreciated the chance to observe other types of marine life. However, guests advised bringing plenty of layers, as it can get quite chilly on the water. Even on hot 90-degree days in Bar Harbor, items like hats, gloves, fleece jackets, and windbreakers are recommended for comfort.

Aside from whale watching, the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. offers various other seasonal cruises, including puffin cruises, lobster boat cruises, and traditional harbor cruises, which typically run from late spring through early fall. Detailed information on rates, schedules, and more can be found on the company's official website.

For more detailed recommendations on whale watching in Maine, check out our curated list of the best whale watching experiences in the area.