BANGOR DAILY NEWS • June 29, 2023
There are five puffin islands along the Maine coast and a dozen tour boats visiting them. Two islands offer the most convenient viewing. I’ve lost count on how many times I’ve been to Seal Island with Isle au Haut Ferry, and I recommend them highly. They only visit the island once or twice a week, though, so plan ahead. Several companies visit Petit Manan daily. Acadia Puffin Cruise departs from Steuben, and it’s only a 25-minute hop to the island. In the height of summer, they can manage up to three tours per day. I’ve done Bar Harbor Whale Watch a bunch. Each island, boat, and trip is different, but one thing is constant. The puffins start leaving in mid-August. You’ve got six weeks remaining to get out there. ~ Bob Duchesne