I will be traveling up the Maine coast in late June with my family. I was wondering which of the many boat trips would be best for puffins?

We could take this trip out of Portland, Camden/Rockland, New Harbor, or even Bar Harbor (if north is better).

What's the best option ? I'd appreciate any thoughts you may have to share.

Mark:

Although many boat lines are good for Puffin, I find that the Stavros line out of Rockland serves up the best Puffin. There is something about the way they season them and slow roast them that really brings out that delicate "Puffin" flavor.

Mmmmmmm, Puffin.

Homer

Mark, The boat trips going out to Machias Seal Island are probably the best. They leave out of both Grand Manan, New Brunswick, and from a town east of Bar Harbor, Maine - not sure precisely. Only a set limited number of Americans and Canadians are allowed on the island each day, so making reservations as soon as possible is wise. I'm sorry not to be more specific about the boat trip's name and other info, but we made the trip 5 years ago, and try as I might, the facts are just not coming! Hopefully. someone else will be able to expand on this.
You will see many, many puffins, and other sea birds from blinds set up strategically around the island. We also saw a number of seals from our boat. Be careful not to get dive-bombed by the terns! And dress warmly {winter weight is not too warm} for the trip over.

I can't remember the name of the boat company, but a few years ago in Boothbay Harbor I took an excellent "puffin watch" boat ride. We saw tons of puffins! dress warm!

I thought you were looking for boat trip on which to take your puffins. Sorry no recommendations for boat trips just to see the puffins.

So, Puffins live by the sea? Are they the children of that old Magic Dragon Puff?

I have a similar dilemma - in June my family will spend time in both Boothbay Harbor and Bar Harbor.

I am not sure which location would be better for a Puffin-watching boat trip? Can anyone help on this one?

Hi, Mark

Go to this site http://www.mainebirding.net/puffin/norton/ to find info on puffin trips. My husband and I took this one several years ago and found everything top notch. We'd go with the same outfit if we wanted to see puffins and other seabirds again up front, close and personal.
Jane

P.S. Hi, again, Mark

Just read Molly's message. I believe Barna Norton and his son are the ones who took Molly out to MSI. We also saw whales in addition to seals on the way out. And, yes, the terns attacked us--we had to wave long sticks above and around our heads to keep them from truly attacking! It was an awesome day. I hope your family will be able to make reservations. Inquire SOON!
Jane