Some Common Questions

Why should I choose Camden Harbor Cruises?

• The Lively Lady has one-hour boat tours in Camden, a short trip for those unsure of the water or with young kiddos! Our charter vessel, Periwinkle, is available for fully customizable trips!
• The duration of most of our trips allow for free parking and time to do and see more ashore.
• We have comfortable seats with full backrests.
• The forward half of our deck on Lively Lady is covered, protecting our guests from sun and rain. We also have fold-down sides for added wind protection if needed. 
• Because we are not dependent on the wind for propulsion, we can guarantee you a superior view of all of the best sights our area has to offer.
• We have high solid rails around our deck, for your safety and particularly for the safety of children.

What will we see?

On every trip we will see Curtis Island lighthouse, traditional sailing vessels, visiting yachts, Maine's rocky coastline, and seaside mansions only visible from the water. In addition to seagulls and cormorants, we often see harbor seals, porpoises, bald eagles, osprey, and guillemots (a cousin to the puffin). We often get to observe commercial lobstermen hauling their traps, and once in a while someone famous on their mega-yacht. When we haul our own lobster trap you might see lobsters, baby lobsters, sea stars, urchins, crabs, mussels, and an occasional surprise from the deep!

Where will we go?

We have many different routes, times and excursion lengths to suit you and your families needs.  Please see the "Schedule and Rates" page for more details of our trips.  

What will we do?

If you prefer to sit back and simply take in the sun, scenery, and salt air - that's fine by us.  However, if you prefer more active participation, you can help Captain Dom steer the boat or help the crew haul our lobster trap. We can teach you the names of the islands, some local folklore, and answer any questions that come to mind.

What should we bring and wear?

It is always cooler on the water than on land, and we have warm blankets you can borrow. In the spring and fall we recommend a lightweight jacket and long pants. In the summer, unless it's really hot, you'll want a jacket or sweatshirt for morning and evening trips. During the day, bring sunglasses, sun block and wear a hat. Soft soled shoes, sneakers or sandals are fine. No high heels please. If it looks like rain, bring a rain jacket, and lastly, don't forget a camera and binoculars.

Will I get sea sick?

Hardly anyone ever gets seasick. The waters of Penobscot Bay are protected from ocean swells and the shore is always visible. If you're still nervous, we suggest purchasing acupressure wrist bands available at most drug stores, or ginger caplets or chews, which are an anti-nausea agent and are a natural alternative to Dramamine, which can make you drowsy.

Do you allow children?

Of course! Children love being out on the water and we enjoy showing kids the creatures we find in our lobster trap. Our boats have high rails for safety. We do ask that parents be responsible for their children at all times, and be sure they are respectful of other passengers and our crew. We have lifejackets onboard for children but they are of the horseshoe type and young kids may find them uncomfortable. If you have a vest style lifejacket for your child, by all means bring it with you. We offer discounted rates for children under 12 years old, and infants under two years old are always free.

What about food and drinks?

We are BYOB for both food and drinks (including alcohol).  

Where are you located?

We are on the boardwalk in downtown Camden, Maine. When approaching from the South on Route 1, (Commercial Street) turn right at the 4-way intersection in the center of town across the street from French & Brawn Grocery. Go down the hill, keeping Sea Dog Brewery restaurant immediately on your left, through the public parking lot, to the harbor boardwalk. Look for our umbrella, next to the small Harbormaster's "Shack."

Where do we park?

We suggest using one of the town's all-day parking lots: one is on Washington Street just past the fire station on the right, and the other is on Atlantic Avenue just past the Camden Public Library, on the left. Both are within walking distance. There is also paid, 4-hour parking at the Camden Public Landing where we board the boat.  

Keep in mind that there are often major events occurring weekends in Camden and it can take longer than usual to get into town and find a place to park. If you're coming on a weekend, give yourself plenty of extra time. If you're late and miss the boat, we unfortunately cannot give you a refund.

What about wheelchairs?

Our vessels are not wheelchair accessible, however, once aboard, all of our seats have comfortable back rests. We are happy to assist those with limited mobility in the boarding process and do this almost daily during the summer.  

Can I smoke aboard?

No cigarette, cigar or pipe smoking is allowed on any of our sails.

Is there a bathroom?

Yes, we have a flushable toilet (or 'head' if you're a mariner) on both Lively Lady and Periwinkle.

Is there shade aboard?

The forward half of our seating on the Lively Lady is in the shade, and the back half is not. If you have a preference, please let us know before boarding. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunblock are good ideas during the day. We are currently working on a sun-shade solution for Periwinkle!

Do you allow dogs?

We allow friendly, leashed dogs on our cruises.  They MUST be comfortable and non-aggressive with adults, children and other dogs.  As much as we love dogs, if yours does not love everyone we ask that they do not ride the boat for safety reasons.  A private charter may be available if you have a dog that does not fit this criteria and you still want to bring them on the boat-thank you for understanding, woof!

*PLEASE CALL AND LET US KNOW IF YOU PLAN ON BRINGING A DOG SO WE CAN MAKE A NOTE ON THE RESERVATION-THANK YOU!*

What time should we check-in?

Please arrive and check in with us 20 minutes before your trip is scheduled to depart. We board the boat 10 minutes prior to departure, and reserve the right to sell your ticket to someone else if we cannot find you.

What is the Cancellation Policy?

We will give a complete refund if WE have to cancel a trip because of intrepid weather. If you prebook your trip, you'll receive a full refund if you cancel with a 24 hour notice. If you have any questions or are unable to make your trip, please give us a call so we can do our best to reschedule you for a time and date that works for you. Unfortunately, there is no refund if you miss your departure time.

What if I need to Change my Reservation?

Please give us a call (207-236-6672) if you need to make changes your reservation. We will be happy to assist you to reschedule a day or time, or add or subtract guests (subject to our cancellation policy) if there is space available.