PORTLAND FERRY FIELD GUIDE
Short Harbor Crossing, Big Views: Burnt Island Lighthouse in a Single Visit
A brief 15‑minute ferry from Pier 8 delivers visitors to Burnt Island for a guided island visit and the opportunity to climb into the lighthouse—this guide explains what the verified itinerary includes.
Short Harbor Crossing, Big Views: Burnt Island Lighthouse in a Single Visit.
Embark on a memorable, close‑in maritime outing: a scenic 15‑minute ferry carries you from Boothbay Harbor to Burnt Island, where Keepers of the Burnt Island Lighthouse lead a guided circuit of the island and up into the tower. The short outing compresses sea travel and island time into a compact visit that highlights the lighthouse and its setting.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A brisk, 15‑minute ferry across the harbor
The trip begins with a short ferry ride from Pier 8—an efficient approach that frames the island visit and places the lighthouse at the center of the experience.
Keepers lead the island tour
Staff from the Keepers of the Burnt Island Lighthouse guide visitors around the island, sharing context and escorting groups through the site as part of the programmed visit.
Climb into the lighthouse lantern
A highlight of the visit is the chance to ascend into the lighthouse tower under Keeper supervision, offering a distinct vantage on the island and surrounding water.
What the day feels like
What the visit feels like
The outing is compact and focused: a short ferry ride sets the tone, then Keepers lead a guided walk of the island and bring small groups into the lighthouse tower for the climb, after which the ferry returns you to Pier 8. The structure is designed to deliver an island experience within a tight time frame.
THE APPROACH
A brisk, 15‑minute ferry across the harbor
The trip begins with a short ferry ride from Pier 8—an efficient approach that frames the island visit and places the lighthouse at the center of the experience.
THE GUIDED VISIT
Keepers lead the island tour
Staff from the Keepers of the Burnt Island Lighthouse guide visitors around the island, sharing context and escorting groups through the site as part of the programmed visit.
THE TOWER
Climb into the lighthouse lantern
A highlight of the visit is the chance to ascend into the lighthouse tower under Keeper supervision, offering a distinct vantage on the island and surrounding water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and where to pause before booking.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The verified data does not list specific gear requirements for this outing.
The full program is listed as 1.75 hours in total, with a 15‑minute ferry to the island, about 1.25 hours on the island, and a 15‑minute ferry return.
Boarding is at Pier 8, 42 Commercial St., Boothbay Harbor, ME.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the entire outing?
The verified duration is 1.75 hours in total.
Where do I meet for the ferry?
Meeting and boarding are at Pier 8, 42 Commercial St., Boothbay Harbor, ME.
How long is the ferry ride to Burnt Island?
The ferry ride to the island is approximately 15 minutes each way.
How much time do visitors spend on the island?
The verified breakdown lists about 1.25 hours spent on the island.
Is there a lighthouse climb included?
Yes. The Keepers of the Burnt Island Lighthouse staff guide visitors around the island and up into the lighthouse tower.
Who operates the trip to Burnt Island Lighthouse?
The operator is Balmy Days Cruises.