Silversea Luxury Cruises À BAR HARBOR MAINE

Embrace the pristine natural beauty of Acadia National Park during this memorable, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

Depart the pier for the brief drive to the 35,000-acre (14,164-hectare) Acadia National Park, one of the most visited parks in the United States. En route, pass through the quaint town of Bar Harbor to view some of the charming Victorian mansions built by America's rich and famous at the turn of the 20th century. Upon arrival at Acadia National Park, a stop is made at the Hulls Cover Visitors' Centre.

Scenic Tour and Thunder Hole

Next, drive along the 27-mile (43-kilometre) Park Loop Road, where wonderful coastal, mountain and forest scenery abounds. Proceed along the ocean's edge and pass by Sand Beach, Schooner Head Overlook and the High Seas Estate. At Thunder Hole, a brief photo stop is made to see the ocean swells converge against the granite cliffs to create a thunderous roar. You may watch this phenomenon from the top of the road, or take the stairs down to the water's edge.

Cadillac Mountain

Your drive continues past Otter Cliffs and the Gulf of Maine, which offers spectacular vistas of offshore islands. From here, pass by pine wood forests and the Jordan Pond House for splendid views of the Penobscot Mountains and Bubbles Hill, home to old stone-cut bridges, carriage trails and over 50 animal species.

Your tour concludes with a panoramic photo stop on Cadillac Mountain (weather permitting) before commencing the brief drive back to the pier.

Boarding your coach at the pier, you will set-off on the drive to Acadia National Park, first passing through the quaint town of Bar Harbor to view some of the charming Victorian mansions built by America's rich and famous at the turn of the 20th century. Upon arrival at Acadia National Park, you will proceed along the 27-mile Park Loop Road taking in spectacular coastal, mountain and forest views.

Next, you will travel along the ocean's edge, passing Sand Beach, Schooner Head Overlook, and the High Seas Estate, a beautiful mansion built by a wealthy gentleman whose wife perished on the Titanic before ever stepping foot in her dream home. At Thunder Hole, a short photo stop will be made where you can see the ocean swells converge against the granite cliffs to create a thunderous roar (If designated bus parking is not available, an alternate photo stop will be made in the park at the tour guide's discretion).

Continuing on, you will pass Otter Cliffs and the gulf of Maine with beautiful views of the off shore islands, as well as travel through pine wood forests and past the Jordon Pond House. A beautiful view of the Penobscot Mountains and Bubbles Hill awaits you at this location and with much of the land donated by John D. Rockefeller. You will also see the romantic stone-cut bridges and evidence of the elaborate carriage trails built by his family at the turn of the century. Home to over 50 species of mammals, keep your eyes peeled for Moose, Black Bear and White Tail Deer as you make your way around the Park Loop Road.

Weather and traffic/crowd conditions permitting, there will be a photo stop from atop the 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on North America's eastern seaboard. Here, you will have the opportunity to take in spectacular panoramic views and enjoy photo opportunities of Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island. This wonderful vantage point allows you to see how glaciers have carved through the granite cliffs to form a breathtaking landscape of lush forest, lakes and valleys.

Make your way back to the ship with a 40 minute drive on board your coach bus.

Explore the seaside village and working waterfront of Bar Harbor on this easy walking tour while thrilling to tales of local haunts and early history as well as seafaring mysteries and lore.

Your guide clad in period clothing will combine gracious hospitality with extensive local knowledge for an adventurous and lively interpretation of land and sea stories.

See Victorian mansions, hear stories of rum runners, and learn about people who shaped the history of this Maine island village.

Learn about the fisherman's timeless trade, from battling giant cod alone in an open boat on stormy seas, to the struggle of hauling lobster traps by hand. Find out about how seafood is harvested in modern times, and what it takes to bring that freshly caught lobster, swordfish, haddock, clam or oyster to your plate.

Your tour ends in the center of town, within sight of the tender landing to return to your ship, across the street from the chamber of commerce information booth, and directly in front of world famous Ben and Bill's Chocolate Emporium; for which your tour guide will give you a voucher for a free Italian soda or hot chocolate and a taste (if you dare) of lobster ice cream! If you want to continue exploring beautiful Bar Harbor, your guide will be happy to answer your questions or make suggestions.

Experience the scenic natural splendour and charming seaside villages of Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Bar Harbour, Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park, Park Loop Road

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to Thunder Hole. En route, learn about the history of Mount Desert Island, named 'One of the World's Best Islands' by Travel and Leisure magazine, and beautiful Acadia National Park, which comprises two-thirds of Mount Desert Island. Continue onto Park Look Road, an approximately 27-mile-long (about 43.4-kilometre-long) road connecting the park's lakes, mountains, forests and rocky coast.

Somes Sound, Seawall, Bass Harbour Headlight, Northeast Harbour, Free Time, Thunder Hole

Along the way, pass by Sand Beach and stop for photos at Thunder Hole. Carved out of the rocks, this natural wonder is famous for the thunderous clap that occurs when seawater crashes in, and air-and-water are forced out. Next, re-board your van and head to the village of Northeast Harbour and some free time at your leisure. Your route winds its way through the part of the island known as the 'quiet side' for its slower, more relaxed pace. View the magnificent Somes Sound, the only fjord on the east coast of the United States. Photo stops are made at a pair of stunning sights perched on the fjord; the Seawall, an amazing, naturally-formed breakwater comprised of millions of loose granite boulders and rocks, and iconic, 160-year-old Bass Harbour Headlight, one of the most recognizable and photographed lighthouses in North America.

Bass Harbour, Southwest Harbour, Tree-Lined Streets, Bay, Downtown Area, Free Time, Shopping

Next, re-board your van and drive through the village of Bass Harbour to Southwest Harbour. Often called 'the jewel' of Mount Desert Island, this coastal gem boasts tree-lined streets, a sparkling bay filled with lobster boats and yachts, and a quaint downtown area brimming with shops, cafés and galleries. Upon arrival, some free time is made available for a pleasant stroll and shopping at your leisure. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your van and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Indulge your senses with the picturesque beauty of Bar Harbor during this sightseeing tour of Acadia National Park followed by a delicious lobster bake.

Acadia National Park and Thunder Hole

Depart the pier for the brief drive to Acadia National Park en route to Thunder Hole. Upon arrival at the park, drive along the 27-mile (43-kilometre) Park Loop Road, where wonderful coastal, mountain, and forest scenery abounds. At Thunder Hole, a brief photo stop is made to see the ocean swells converge against the granite cliffs to create a thunderous roar

Afterward, proceed for lunch, and feast on fresh lobster pulled from Maine's ocean water.

Jordan Pond House and Cadillac Mountain

After lunch your drive continues on to the Jordan Pond House. A brief photo stop is made here for panoramic views of the Penobscot Mountains and Bubbles Hill from the observation deck.

Your tour concludes with a brief yet panoramic photo stop at the summit of the 1,530-foot (466-metre) Cadillac Mountain (weather permitting). Upon arrival, marvel at the sweeping vistas and natural beauty of Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park before commencing the brief drive back to the pier.

Explore the fascinating world of 'downeast' Maine cooking with author and Cordon Bleu trained chef Sharon Joyce. Enjoy a cooking demonstration as Sharon shares the ingredients and technique for her iconic Popover and Maine chowder. Popovers are a special bread that has been served for generations in Bar Harbor and are easy to make if you know the secrets. The type of chowder is dependent on the catch of the day and is usually fish. The secrets of the base will give you many options of the types of chowders to make at home.

You may volunteer to assist the chef in front of the class or just enjoy watching. At the end of the class you will have a taste of the chowder, enjoy a hot popover, and be given written recipes to make popovers and chowders at home to enjoy with your friends and family.

Sharon Joyce - Bio

Sharon Joyce is a trainer/educator/chef/author and studied in Advanced French Cooking and French Pastry at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. In 1981 she opened and operated a catering business and cooking school in Chicago and the Virgin Islands. She has taught various cooking classes including French, International, Regional American and Cruzan in such locations as Chicago, Bar Harbor, California, and Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S.V.I. She was fascinated by Maine cooking and the abundance of local foods when she moved to Bar Harbor over 30 years ago. Her most recent cookbook A culinary History of Downeast Maine was published last year. She operates Ambrosia Cooking School in Bar Harbor, Maine.

Enjoy a day of golfing at Kebo Valley Golf Club.

Established in 1888 it is the 8^th oldest golf club in the United States. The course is surrounded by Acadia National Park and offers majestic views of the mountains of Acadia. The course was designed by Herbert C. Leeds and Donald J. Ross.

The 18-hole course features 6,131 yards (5,606 metres) of golf from the longest tees for a par of 70. The course rating is 69.5.

Please note: Programme involves moderate to extensive activity and includes green fees, roundtrip transportation and shared cart. Optional rentals and purchases are not a part of the programme and are to be paid directly to the pro shop. Golf attire is mandatory; no jeans, tee-shirts or tank tops permitted. Golfers may wear soft-spiked golf shoes. Golf must be booked the latest 72 hours prior to play and is subject to cancellation charges if cancelled within this time. A minimum participation of four golfers is required to operate this tour.

Meet your guide on the pier and walk for approximately five minutes to your awaiting lobster boat. Once aboard, the captain offers insight into the lobster fishing history and industry as you cruise through Frenchman's bay en route to his traps. See first-hand how lobster traps are hauled, set and baited. During the voyage, learn how these succulent creatures get from the bottom of the ocean to the dinner plate.

Listen as the crew discuss these crustaceans' habits, the conservation efforts of the lobster industry, and understand the difference between hard shells, shedders, shorts, culls, and keepers. Along the way, you may have a chance to see the antics of the seal colonies as you quietly cruise past the rock ledges where they rest and catch a glimpse of the picturesque Egg Rock Lighthouse, while the Captain points out the sites and shares local history and folklore.

After an exhilarating morning, make a 5 minute walk back to the ship.

Take a short 15 minute transfer by van from the pier to the Acadia National Park, where you will meet your naturalist guide and commence your walk along the Ocean Trail. As you make your way through the dramatic setting of this picture-perfect rockbound coastline, you will be introduced to all the wonders of the park, watch the waves crash against granite, learn about the powerful glacial activity that gave the Maine coast its unique identity.

Your hike will immerse you into the variety of wildlife that abounds and the flora and fauna that make this such an island paradise. Learn the role that barons such as John D. Rockefeller played in forming the park and about the fishing industry known as the "golden age" of Bar Harbor. A time when Mount Desert Island was the playground of America's fabulously wealthy.

After an exhilarating hike of approximately 90-minutes, rejoin your van and travel back to the pier.

This casual and invigorating tour along Acadia's famous Ocean Trail and a hike to the summit of Gorham Mountain is an excellent way to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the beautiful New England coastline. Discover the spectacular natural beauty and fascinating history of one of the most gorgeous islands in America.

It's a short transfer by van from the pier to the trailhead, where you will meet your naturalist guide and commence your walk along the Ocean Trail. As you make your way through the dramatic setting of this picture-perfect rockbound coastline, you will be introduced to all the wonders of Acadia National Park. As waves crash against granite, learn about the powerful glacial activity that gave the Maine coast its unique identity, the variety of wildlife that abounds, and the flora and fauna that make this such an island paradise. Hike to the summit of Gorham Mountain for wonderful views of Cadilac Mountain and Maine's rocky coast. Learn the role that barons such as John D. Rockefeller played in forming the park. Also learn about the fishing industry and the "golden age" of Bar Harbor, when Mount Desert Island was the playground of America's fabulously wealthy.

After an exhilarating hike of approximately 90-minutes, you'll rejoin your van and travel back to the pier.

Explore the coastal beauty and history of one of North America's most picturesque islands on-foot during this excursion to Acadia National Park.

Depart the pier for the brief drive to Acadia National Park. Upon arrival, proceed to the Otter Cliffs area and commence your guided, 90-minute walking tour along Acadia's famous Ocean Trail. As the waves crash against the granite cliffs along the rocky coast, your naturalist guide introduces you to the wonders of Acadia National Park.

Along the way, learn about the powerful glacial activity that shaped the coast of Maine, Acadia's abundant wildlife, and diverse flora and fauna. In addition, discover the park's origins, from the influence of John D. Rockefeller Jr., the local fishing industry and the 'golden age' of Bar Harbor, when Mount Desert Island was the playground of America's wealthy.

Following your walking tour, re-board your van for the brief drive back to the pier.

Explore Bar Harbor at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Guides are English-speaking only. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary. Acadia National Park entry fee is included.

Explore Bar Harbor at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. Guide is English-speaking only. The price is per vehicle and exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities. When making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary. Acadia National Park entry fee is included.

Explore Bar Harbor at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 8 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Guides are English-speaking only. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary. Acadia National Park entry fee is included.

Explore Bar Harbor at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 8 guests per van. Guide is English-speaking only. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary. Acadia National Park entry fee is included.