Discover Maine, New England New England

ARRIVAL IN BAR HARBOR

Welcome to New England! Pick up your rental car at Bangor International Airport before proceeding to Bar Harbor for your elegantly appointed accommodations at the Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina. Take some time to unwind and relax as you enjoy this waterfront property’s luxurious amenities. In the afternoon, head to Frenchman’s Bay for an aerial survey of your new surroundings aboard an authentic 1930s biplane. Enjoy stunning bird’s-eye views of Acadia’s rugged rock-bound shores, islands, lakes and beaches against the romantic backdrop of the setting sun. Fly over the stately homes of Mt. Desert Island and see if you can pick out all seven of the nearby lighthouses from the air. Once back on terra firma, make your way back to your hotel to enjoy the evening at your leisure. 

BIKING AND MARINE LIFE BOAT CHARTER

Explore Acadia National Park’s 47,000 acres of raw beauty this morning on a private guided bike tour. Learn about the details of this stunning natural environment, from its unique glacial history to the diverse flora and fauna that call it home, as you traverse a small segment of its network of carriage trails comprised of gravel roads and stone bridges. At the end of your tour, you will pedal back to the bike shop, rack up your bike, and enjoy lunch in town.

In the afternoon, board a private watercraft and head out into the open ocean in search of the majestic variety of marine life that can be found in these biodiverse waters. With luck, you may catch sight of humpbacks, fins, minke and even endangered right whales as they frolic, breach and blow in their natural habitat! Your experienced captain will navigate to get you as close as is allowed by law to the marine life you encounter. Along with marine animals and seabirds, enjoy unparalleled views of the scenic Maine coastline, undisturbed by human habitation. As the afternoon winds to a close, make your way back to the harbor and proceed to your hotel for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. 

LOBSTER FISHING AND LUNCH CRUISE

This morning, arrive at the docks of Acadia's Northeast Harbor to head out on an authentic lobster boat for a sightseeing tour of the Somes Sound. you head to your first set of lobster traps, your Captain will be on the lookout for gregarious seals and porpoises, as well as ospreys and eagles hunting for their next catch. Upon arrival at the fishing spot, you will gain a deeper understand of the ins and outs of the life of a lobsterman as you help pull up traps, bait and replace them. Wish the lobsters well as you make your way to Little Cranberry Island, where you will disembark for a delicious seafood lunch (paid direct) at a renowned lobster shack perched over the water. After lunch, peruse the adjacent art gallery and gift shop, before boarding the boat for your return journey back into the sound. 

BAR HARBOR TO PORTLAND

This morning after breakfast, head out to your accommodations in Portland. Arrive at The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection, an upscale lifestyle boutique property conveniently located in Portland's charming Old Port District. Spend the day settling into your room and exploring Portland’s urban charms.

LIGHTHOUSES OF PORTLAND

This morning, arrive at the docks of Acadia's Northeast Harbor to head out on an authentic lobster boat for a sightseeing tour of the Somes Sound. you head to your first set of lobster traps, your Captain will be on the lookout for gregarious seals and porpoises, as well as ospreys and eagles hunting for their next catch. Upon arrival at the fishing spot, you will gain a deeper understand of the ins and outs of the life of a lobsterman as you help pull up traps, bait and replace them. Wish the lobsters well as you make your way to Little Cranberry Island, where you will disembark for a delicious seafood lunch (paid direct) at a renowned lobster shack perched over the water. After lunch, peruse the adjacent art gallery and gift shop, before boarding the boat for your return journey back into the sound. 

CASCO BAY AND CRAFT BEER

Today, you will spend your morning on a sea kayaking expedition to the craggy islands of Casco Bay, alongside an expert guide with extensive knowledge of Maine’s ecology. Meet on the Portland waterfront for a brief kayaking refresher course, then venture onto the open waters to enjoy views of seals, lighthouses and rustic island villages. Learn about the importance of Maine’s prized natural resources before disembarking at a remote island beach for a gourmet picnic lunch. Afterwards, continue paddling through the glassy blue waters as you make your way back to shore, change into a pair of dry clothes and return to your hotel.

In the afternoon, visit some legendary breweries while learning about the history of Maine's most important seaport city. With your guide’s insider access to some top-tier breweries, sip and taste your way toward the realization that Portland's beer buzz is a proud part of its cultural fabric. From modern tasting rooms to the towering kettle-like tanks that dominate fermentation chambers, observe how Portland’s brewhouses are blazing the trail of a craft beer nation. Once you have drank your fill, make your way back to your hotel to enjoy the evening at leisure.

DEPARTURE

After breakfast, say goodbye to Maine, and make your Portland International Jetport, where you will drop off your rental car and begin the journey home.