Wild Maine Escape: Exploring Downeast & Acadia National Park

Time stands still in tiny fishing villages on remote islands, in the quiet coves of rocky islets, and in the ancient tall stands of pine and spruce forests. On a rejuvenating expedition along Maine’s wild and rugged coast, discover the world’s first restored Atlantic puffin colony, windswept places that inspired writers and artists, and remote communities with no paved roads. Breathe fresh spruce scented air on a forest hike, see lonely lighthouses atop granite cliffs, and meet friendly locals like the farmers whose vegetables, meats, and cheeses have been celebrated by national publications.

6 Days & 5 Nights

from $3,990 pp/do*

from $5,990 pp

M.V. Sea Lion

New Itinerary for 2023!!

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*Per person/double occupancy. Special single rates apply where listed. Excludes port fees.
Itineraries may operate in reverse.

Your Itinerary

1Portland, ME / Embark
Arrive in Portland, Maine and board the National Geographic Sea Lion.

2Island Exploration
Spend the morning winding in and out of the many islands along Maine's southern coast by kayak, paddleboard, and zodiac. With no firm schedule, we're free to follow the wildlife and the scenery, making the most of our time in this rugged seascape. Later, we may have the opportunity to visit Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership, an innovative, hands-on research and science education program.

3Eastern Egg Rock / Monhegan
Wake up this morning off of Eastern Egg Rock, where an ambitious project to restore seabird colonies begun in the 1970's has led to the return of Atlantic puffins-a true conservation success story. Tour the island in zodiacs on the lookout for nesting pairs of puffins. Continue to Monhegan, a small island with a rich history. Visit art galleries in this tiny community of about 70 full time residents. Explore the Monhegan Lighthouse that overlooks this remote outpost.

4Penobscot Bay / North Haven Island
Scattered with inlets, Penobscot Bay is a fantastic place to explore by zodiac, and, conditions permitting, by kayak or paddleboard. We'll spend the morning discovering its secret coves and stunning scenery, watching for wildlife and photographing vistas of rocky islands, boast moored in village harbors, and solitary lighthouses poised on the shore. In the afternoon, anchor off North Haven Island and go kayaking and paddle boarding or enjoy a hike ashore. Join the staff at Turner Farm for a tour of their organic farm, and then gather at the barn for a farm-to-table dinner as the sun sets.

5Schoodic Peninsula / Acadia National Park
Our adventure continues up the coast to the stunning Schoodic Peninsula, a lesser known part of Acadia National Park located on the mainland. Discover its lush spruce forests and granite shores during a full day of exploration on hikes and by kayak.

6Portland, ME / Disembark
This morning we bid adieu and disembark in Portland.