TREMONT BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Lobster-Boat Nature Cruise to Bass Harbor Head: Seals, Birds and a Hands-On Lobstering Moment
A 2-hour Island Cruises outing from Bass Harbor that introduces Maine’s fishing life, lets guests haul lobster traps, and puts seals, nesting birds, porpoises and Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse within easy view.
A Lobster-Boat Nature Cruise to Bass Harbor Head: Seals, Birds and a Hands-On Lobstering Moment.
Set out from Bass Harbor on a compact, two-hour nature cruise that threads the outer islands of Blue Hill Bay. On board a working lobster boat, the trip combines explanation of the local fishing industry with hands-on moments — hauling a few traps — while scouts watch for seals on exposed ledges, nesting birds on small islands, and the white silhouette of Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. When porpoises are running or eagles are hunting the captain will pause to give passengers closer looks at wildlife.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Working Lobster-Boat Perspective
Learn how Maine’s fishing industry functions from crew and captain commentary while the boat operates as a real working vessel; expect instruction and demonstration tied to local lobster fishing practices.
Haul a Few Lobster Traps
Passengers will have the chance to help haul a few lobster traps, a signature hands-on element of the cruise that illustrates the day-to-day of coastal Maine fisheries.
Seals, Nesting Birds and the Lighthouse
The route passes ledges where seals sun and swim and small islands hosting nesting birds and ducks, with the iconic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse appearing on the course; porpoises and eagles are also possible sightings when they are active.
What the day feels like
How the Cruise Feels
This is a compact, experiential outing: two hours aboard a lobster boat that alternates between narrated passages about the local fishery, short hands-on work at the traps, and slow, attentive steaming past islands and ledges where wildlife congregates. Stops are made to give passengers better views when porpoises are running or eagles are hunting, and much of the trip’s appeal is the close, uncomplicated access to the Maine coast and its animals.
THE FISHERY
A Working Lobster-Boat Perspective
Learn how Maine’s fishing industry functions from crew and captain commentary while the boat operates as a real working vessel; expect instruction and demonstration tied to local lobster fishing practices.
THE HANDS-ON
Haul a Few Lobster Traps
Passengers will have the chance to help haul a few lobster traps, a signature hands-on element of the cruise that illustrates the day-to-day of coastal Maine fisheries.
THE WILDLIFE
Seals, Nesting Birds and the Lighthouse
The route passes ledges where seals sun and swim and small islands hosting nesting birds and ducks, with the iconic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse appearing on the course; porpoises and eagles are also possible sightings when they are active.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise is right for.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a jacket or sweater; this is recommended even on warm days.
Meet at the Island Cruises Ticket Office: 12 Little Island Way, Bass Harbor, Maine, 04653.
The cruise lasts 2 hours.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is The Nature Cruise?
The cruise is two hours long.
Where do I meet the boat?
Meet at the Island Cruises Ticket Office: 12 Little Island Way, Bass Harbor, Maine, 04653.
What wildlife might we see?
Expect seals on ledges, nesting birds and ducks on small islands, and the possibility of porpoises and eagles when they are active; the route also passes Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.
Will we get to haul lobster traps?
Yes — passengers will haul a few lobster traps as part of the cruise experience.
What should I bring aboard?
A jacket or sweater is recommended even on warm days.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes — the tour is advertised as appropriate for all ages.