SOUTHWEST HARBOR GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Brisk Afternoon Sail Through Acadia’s Island-Fringed Waters
A three-hour, wind-driven voyage from Southwest Harbor that follows the wind and tide for wildlife viewing and coastal scenery—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
A Brisk Afternoon Sail Through Acadia’s Island-Fringed Waters.
Departing Southwest Harbor aboard Ambergris, this afternoon sail uses the day’s increasing sea breeze to carry you through the islands and shoreline of Acadia National Park on a three-hour voyage with no fixed course—its route is set by wind and tide and offers repeated chances to spot seabirds, seals and possibly a whale.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Brisk, Wind-Driven Afternoon Sailing
Afternoons bring the strongest sea breeze as the land heats, producing a brisk sail that defines this outing and shapes the route for the afternoon.
Seabirds, Seals and an Outside Chance of Whales
Keep binoculars ready: the voyage provides opportunities to see seabirds, seals and, on occasion, whales while moving among Acadia’s islands.
A Flexible Course Through Acadia’s Islands
There is no set route; the captain follows wind and tide as you sail from Southwest Harbor through the park’s surrounding islands and coastal waters.
What the day feels like
What the Afternoon Feels Like
The sail unfolds as a lively, three-hour afternoon outing: you board at Southwest Harbor and, as the sea breeze builds, the vessel slips among islands and along Acadia’s coastline, the course adjusted by wind and tide with wildlife and coastal vistas punctuating the trip.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this sail suits—and who should check with the operator.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a three-hour afternoon sail; afternoons are typically the windiest part of the day, which creates the brisk sailing conditions central to the experience.
Departures begin at 172 Clark Point Road in Southwest Harbor.
Bring warm clothes, sunscreen, a camera and any food or drink you'd like for the trip.
There is no set course; the captain determines the route each afternoon according to wind and tide, and plans are subject to change based on conditions.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the afternoon sail?
The sail lasts three hours.
Where do we meet for the trip?
The meeting location is 172 Clark Point Road in Southwest Harbor.
Is there a set route for the sail?
No: there is no set route. The course is chosen by the captain based on wind and tide.
What wildlife might we see?
Passengers often spot seabirds and seals, and there is a possibility of seeing a whale.
What should I bring on the sail?
Bring warm clothing, sunscreen, a camera, and any food or drink you'd like to have on board.
Why is the sail scheduled in the afternoon?
Afternoons are usually the windiest part of the day as onshore sea breezes develop, which produces the brisk sailing conditions for this outing.