American Cruise Lines: Maine Coast & Harbors
American Cruise Lines: Maine Coast & Harbours8 nights From £3995 per person
Price includes: Return international flights, 1 nights in Portland before the cruise, 7 night cruise including all meals and excursions.
Optional excursions, gratuities and items of a personal nature are not included. Single supplement available on request.
People have been drawn to the spectacular coast of Maine throughout history. As your small ship winds through scenic rivers, sparkling bays, and historic harbors, discover the undeniable magic found along Maine’s coast.
From Boothbay to Bar Harbor, Camden to Castine, your journey brings you to charming ports famous for their shipbuilding, beautiful national parks, and quaint historic districts.
Stroll the charming village of Belfast, known for its beautiful Greek Revival architecture, marvel at the granite mountains of Acadia National Park, and admire the classic schooners in Camden Harbor. Come discover what makes Maine one of the most popular destinations in America.
Pre-Cruise
Portland, ME
Fly into Boston and pick up your hire car. Drive to Portland, ME (approx 112 miles).
Stay in downtown Portland overnight and spend the evening enjoying the many restaurants and downtown area.
Day 1 Portland, ME
In the morning check in at the port before enjoying breakfast and a guided city tour of Portland. Immerse yourself in the maritime heritage of Maine’s largest city-by-the-sea, as you view Longfellow’s boyhood home and the elegant Victorian Mansions that overlook the islands of Casco Bay. Stop at the famous Portland Head Lighthouse, a historic landmark and the most photographed lighthouse in America. The tour concludes at the ship, where your luggage will be waiting for you in your stateroom.
Begin your adventure with a calm afternoon on the sun deck looking for whales and enjoying the stunning natural beauty of Maine’s rugged coast. Cape Elizabeth marks the entrance to the Portland Harbor where you can witness spectacular views of the Old Port district.
Day 2 Bar Harbor, ME
Nestled on the east side of Mt. Desert Island, Bar Harbor enchants visitors with its natural beauty, cultural traditions, and endless opportunities for recreation. Visit Acadia National Park and witness breathtaking vistas and an abundance of wildlife in unspoiled habitats. End your day by taking a leisurely walk along the “Shore Path,” where you will be treated to views of the Atlantic Ocean and gorgeous, sprawling homes.
Day 3 Castine / Belfast, ME
Home to the Maine Maritime Academy, Castine offers both spectacular harbour views and an area rife with history. Enjoy the town’s many examples of early 19th-century architecture. Spend the afternoon exploring Belfast, a quaint coastal community. Stroll through its historic district, which showcases magnificent sea captains’ mansions. Art enthusiasts will enjoy visiting this area’s many art galleries.
Day 4 Camden, ME
Full of classic schooners, this charming village is considered the "Tall Ship Capital of Maine." Enjoy the warm summer sun and refreshing sea breezes as you relax and watch beautiful ships sail into the harbour. Walk Camden’s streets lined with shops and art galleries. Bring your camera to capture sweeping ocean vistas, placid coastlines, and panoramic views of Camden, Penobscot Bay, and the surrounding islands from atop Mount Battie.
Day 5 Rockland, ME
Rockland is an exciting town with a vibrant art culture and thriving lobster industry. Spend your time touring one of Rockland's unique museums, including the Owls Head Transportation Museum and the Farnsworth Art Museum. Explore downtown Rockland which features an eclectic collection of art galleries or relax on a park bench and watch classic schooners sail through the harbour.
Day 6 Boothbay Harbor, ME
Known as the “Boating Capital of New England,” Boothbay Harbor overflows with fishing vessels and pleasure crafts in equal numbers. Walk along Boothbay Harbor’s flower-lined streets, dotted with art galleries, antique stores, and speciality shops. Don't forget to visit the famous Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.
Day 7 Bath, ME
Long known as the “City of Ships,” Bath finds its identity in shipbuilding. From its architecture and cultural offerings to its urban downtown, Bath’s shipbuilding roots define its character. Walk Bath’s streets and admire the seaport’s tree-lined avenues, graced with classic examples of American architecture. Or explore the nationally acclaimed Maine Maritime Museum, which offers a variety of exhibits about Maine’s nautical history.
Day 8 Portland, ME
After a refreshing and relaxing week of cruising Maine’s coast and harbours, enjoy a day exploring the city of Portland. This charming area is located in the heart of Casco Bay and offers something for everyone. Visit one of Portland’s many museums and art galleries or peruse the speciality boutiques in the city’s celebrated Old Port.
Ship: The Independence
With the latest in navigation and safety technology, the Independence is fully stabilized, allowing American Cruise Lines to reach even more fascinating destinations in smooth comfort.
The ship is equipped with the largest staterooms in the industry, most featuring a private balcony. Complete with an exercise area and putting green, the Independence offers guests a relaxed and casual atmosphere.
