Bar Harbor Whale Watch runs the largest operation out of the town pier, with a fleet of fast catamarans. Trips last about four hours and reach the deep waters off Mount Desert Rock where finbacks, humpbacks, and minkes feed in summer. Atlantic puffins nest on Petit Manan Island, and longer combined trips include the puffin colony.
The boats sail late May to October. The water is cold and the open ocean can be rough — bring layers and seasickness pills if you are prone. The pier is at the foot of West Street.