Maine Yacht Charter Guide
As America’s New England’s most northeastern yachting hotspot, and largest state, Maine is the ultimate destination to discover by yacht charter. Cruise the dramatic, rocky coastline and islands that make up part of the well-protected Acadia National Park. Begin the journey in the historic, creative city of Portland and island-hop your way to Bar Harbor.
The iconic, coastal summer retreat of the Gilded Age, and today, Bar Harbor continues to attract visitors, superyachts, and croquet enthusiasts to its charming downtown area and serves as a gateway for adventures. Maine’s mountainous, wild, and rugged landscape is the perfect setting for outdoor pursuits, and its waters host excellent dives and an exciting deep-sea fishing scene. As the lobster capital of the world, you will never be far from indulging in the iconic lobster roll after exploring here. From adventuring in the coastal forests and secluded beach spots to stepping ashore into the inviting fishing harbors, spend an entire charter itinerary exploring Maine, or head onwards to explore more of New England.
Best Time To Visit: The peak season with the warmest weather is from June to August. New England’s ‘Indian Summer’ from September to November offers beautiful fall foliage along the coastline and fewer crowds.
Key Cruising Areas: Cruise Maine’s coastline, beginning in the Portland area to Boothbay Harbor, Camden, and Rockland, then onwards to Penobscot Bay, Bar Harbor, and Acadia National Park. Or as part of a wider New England itinerary, island hop from Maine to Newport.
Don’t Miss: Acadia National Park is a gateway to popular hiking trails, including the highest point on the Atlantic Coast, Cadillac Mountain, which offers panoramic scenery.
Best Spots For Wining And Dining: Portland has a thriving and renowned food scene, take the tender to the iconic DiMillo’s on the Water - a former car ferry now a floating restaurant. In Camden, be sure to check out the many waterfront shacks, and finish with a visit to Cellardoor Winery - Maine’s first vineyard.
Best Local Dish: Hailed as the ‘lobster capital of the world,’ it would be rude not to indulge here. Try the area’s signature dish of lobster rolls, Connecticut-style.
Local Culture: From working lobster boats to maritime museums and iconic lighthouses, explore Maine’s connection with the sea - visit one of the oldest lighthouses in the US, Portland Head Light, and the nearby Fort Williams Park for a glimpse into Maine’s maritime defense history.
Best Beach: Named by Maine’s indigenous Abenaki people, Ogunquit, meaning “beautiful place by the sea,” is a long sandy beach bordered with seagrass and dunes. When the tide goes out, it leaves shallow waters and sandbars.
IYC Recommends: Enjoy a day anchored at Monhegan Island, with no cars or roads, it's the perfect opportunity to soak up the serenity and natural beauty along the hiking and biking trails, where you can spot the famous fairy houses. Keep an eye out for the harbor seals along the cliffs when exploring.