Island Crossing: Beal & Bunker’s Cranberry–Northeast Round Trip

MOUNT DESERT FERRY FIELD GUIDE

Island Crossing: Beal & Bunker’s Cranberry–Northeast Round Trip

A concise guide to the Beal & Bunker ferry running between Northeast Harbor and the Cranberry Isles, summarizing schedules, what’s included, and what to expect on the water.

Check availabilitySee guide details

Island Crossing: Beal & Bunker’s Cranberry–Northeast Round Trip.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Mount Desert
Operator
Beal & Bunker
Category
Ferry
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

The Beal & Bunker ferry links the picture‑postcard Cranberry Isles with Northeast Harbor, offering a short, scenic passage along Maine’s rugged coastline. Operated as a year‑round transportation service, the run serves commuters and day visitors alike, with comfortable onboard watching for ocean vistas and the region’s island culture.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

Open‑water views and island silhouettes

Passengers relax onboard with unobstructed views of the ocean and nearby islands, a defining element of the crossing between the Cranberry Isles and Northeast Harbor.

THE ROUTE

Short crossings — reliable schedules

Crossings typically run 20+ minutes, with select 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm runs lasting 45 minutes, making the service convenient for quick island access or routine travel.

THE SERVICE

Year‑round island link

Beal & Bunker operates this year‑round connection between Northeast Harbor and the Cranberry Isles; fares reflect round‑trip transportation.

What the day feels like

What the crossing feels like

The trip is a straightforward ferry passage between two island communities: an unhurried boarding, a short open‑water transit with sky and island views, and arrival at the opposite shore. Whether used for commuting or for a day of island exploration, the service emphasizes reliable, comfortable transport.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this service suits best and what to consider before you go.

1
CommutersA practical year‑round link for routine travel between the Cranberry Isles and Northeast Harbor; the schedule includes short crossings suitable for daily use.
2
Day trippers & island explorersIdeal for visitors making a same‑day trip to the Cranberry Isles — short transit times make single‑day island visits straightforward.
3
FamiliesMarketed for all ages, the ferry accommodates multigenerational groups traveling between the islands and harbor.
4
SightseersThose focused on coastal scenery and island culture will find the crossing delivers consistent ocean views and a sense of place between shorelines.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Season

Service operates year‑round. Crossings are typically 20+ minutes; select 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm runs are 45 minutes.

What’s included

Fares reflect round‑trip transportation.

Logistics

The ferry links the Cranberry Isles and Northeast Harbor under Beal & Bunker’s operation.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the crossing?

Crossings are typically 20+ minutes; the 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm runs are 45 minutes.

Where does the ferry run between?

The service runs between the Cranberry Isles and Northeast Harbor.

Who operates this ferry?

The ferry is operated by Beal & Bunker.

Are fares round‑trip?

Fares above reflect round‑trip transportation.

Is the service year‑round?

Yes — the operator offers year‑round transportation between Northeast Harbor and the Cranberry Isles.

Is this suitable for all ages?

The service is described for all ages.