If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the rugged beauty of Maine’s coast without the crowds, the Belfast VIP Private Harbor Cruise offers a relaxed and authentic boat experience. This tour, run by The Back and Forth, invites you aboard a traditional wooden lobster boat for a personalized jaunt around Belfast Harbor. It’s ideal for travelers seeking intimate scenery, local flavor, and a touch of maritime history.
Two things we particularly like about this tour are the chance to get up close to the boats and yachts that dock in Belfast’s harbor and the opportunity to learn about the area from a knowledgeable captain. The ability to bring your own drinks and have a flexible, private experience can make this trip stand out.
That said, one consideration is the boat itself—while charming, it’s a simple, no-frills vessel, which might not appeal to those expecting luxury or extensive amenities. If you’re after a genuine, laid-back maritime experience with a dash of Maine’s local character, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially well-suited for small groups, couples, or families wanting an exclusive adventure on the water.
Key Points
- Private, personalized experience on a traditional wooden lobster boat.
- Flexible duration ranging from 1.5 to 6 hours, tailored to your interests.
- Ideal for boat lovers and those interested in local harbor scenes.
- Opportunity to see seals and yachts up close and enjoy scenic views.
- Bring your own beverages and enjoy a relaxed, informal atmosphere.
- Learn about Belfast Harbor’s history directly from your captain.
An Introduction to the Belfast Harbor Cruise Experience
This private cruise promises an intimate look at Belfast’s waterfront, a scene filled with boats, yachts, and working lobstermen. We loved the idea of making this a personalized outing—your own boat, your own pace. Whether you want a quick 1.5-hour jaunt or a leisurely 6-hour exploration, the flexibility means you can tailor the trip to fit your schedule and mood.
A key feature of this cruise is the opportunity to see Belfast from the water, which offers a different perspective than walking around town. The views are described as breathtaking, especially when passing by the iconic Young’s Lobster Pond or the bustling harbor filled with boats. The chance to learn about the harbor’s history from the captain adds a layer of local storytelling that makes the experience more meaningful, especially for those interested in the maritime culture of Maine.
While reviews praise the friendly and knowledgeable crew, some mention that the boat itself is straightforward—no luxury lounge, just a classic wooden vessel. If you’re expecting a fancy yacht with all the bells and whistles, this might be a different kind of experience. However, for authentic charm and direct contact with local life, it’s hard to beat.
This tour appeals most to those who enjoy quiet, scenic water views, are curious about harbor life, or want a private experience rather than a large-group tour. It’s perfect for couples, small families, or groups of friends seeking a laid-back day on the water.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Belfast Maine
What to Expect During Your Belfast Harbor Cruise
Boarding takes place at the Belfast City Harbor Dock at 3 Main Street, in the parking lot. Once aboard ‘The Back and Forth,’ you’ll find a traditional wooden lobster boat that’s both sturdy and charming. The boat’s simplicity is a plus for those wanting an authentic maritime experience—no flashy electronics or luxury features, just a boat built for function and history.
The cruise typically lasts between 1.5 and 6 hours, giving you plenty of options for a short scenic tour or a longer exploration. If you choose a morning or evening cruise, you’ll enjoy different lighting conditions—morning light on the bay or sunset reflections that make photos pop.
The captain will take you around the harbor, pointing out highlights like Belfast’s boat-filled docks and the historic Young’s Lobster Pond, where you might even stop to pick up some fresh lobster for an onboard meal. This is a rare chance to see sea seals or harbor porpoises if they’re around, adding a fun wildlife element.
You are encouraged to bring your own beverages, with coolers provided onboard. The relaxed atmosphere means you can sip wine or soda while watching boats glide by or chatting with your captain about local lore. Toward the end of the cruise, you’ll have a chance to get up close to yachts and smaller boats docked in the harbor, perfect for photography and a bit of boat spotting.
The Value of the Experience
At $211 for a group of up to six people, this tour offers a good value for a private outing in a scenic setting. The cost covers your exclusive boat, the captain’s insights, bottled water, and the flexibility to customize your time on the water. Compared to larger tours, this is a more controlled, personalized way to experience Belfast’s harbor without feeling like just another passenger on a crowded vessel.
The reviews suggest that the personal touch makes this cruise memorable—one guest remarked on the friendliness and competence of the crew, and another loved the relaxing scenery and seal sightings. The opportunity to sample Maine lobster directly from Young’s Lobster Pond adds a delicious local flavor, especially if you decide to grab some for an onboard snack.
The Charm of a Traditional Wooden Lobster Boat
This tour’s vessel, a wooden lobster boat, is a highlight in itself. The warm, weathered wood and classic design evoke Maine’s maritime heritage. It’s a boat built for the local lobstermen, not luxury travelers, which means you get a genuine taste of working harbor life.
While some might find the boat a bit basic or crowded, many appreciate the authentic, no-fuss character. It’s a reminder of how Maine’s coast has been shaped by generations of fishermen and boatbuilders. If you’re looking for a photo-worthy vessel that feels like stepping back in time, this boat delivers.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Reviews: What Other Travelers Say
The feedback from past guests paints a balanced picture. Many praise the friendly crew and beautiful scenery, with comments like “the boat was clean and very comfortable,” and “we saw seals feeding,” highlighting the natural appeal. One guest notes, “the captain and first mate were terrific,” reinforcing the value of local knowledge.
However, a reviewer mentioned that the boat was “plain” and “a bit dirty,” with no extras offered—an honest reminder that this isn’t a luxury cruise. If you’re seeking a simple but genuine experience, this straightforward approach is part of its charm.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is best suited for those who value authenticity and scenic tranquility. If you enjoy quiet time on the water, observing boats and wildlife, and learning about local history from a friendly captain, you’ll find this outing rewarding. It’s especially appealing for small groups, couples, and families that want a private, flexible experience.
It may not be ideal for pregnant women, or travelers expecting high-end amenities, but for anyone wanting a taste of Maine’s maritime culture with stunning views and a bit of local storytelling, it hits the mark.
The Sum Up
The Belfast VIP Private Harbor Cruise is a charming way to explore Maine’s coastline from the water. With a traditional wooden boat, flexible timing, and the ability to bring your own drinks, it offers a relaxed and intimate maritime experience. The scenic views, seals, yachts, and local insights combine to create a memorable outing that’s both authentic and enjoyable.
For travelers who want to avoid the crowds and connect with Belfast’s harbor in a personal way, this tour provides great value. It’s ideal for small groups craving a peaceful day in Maine’s maritime landscape, or anyone eager to see the harbor’s lively scene up close.
While it’s not a luxury cruise, its intimacy and local flavor make it a standout for those seeking genuine, scenic fun on the water. If you appreciate Maine’s nautical traditions and scenic views, this tour will not disappoint.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour duration varies from 1.5 to 6 hours, giving you the flexibility to choose shorter or longer cruises based on your schedule and interests.
Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Belfast City Harbor Dock, located at 3 Main Street, in the car park.
Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you’re encouraged to bring your own beverages. The boat has coolers, glasses, and bottle openers for your convenience.
Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is described as clean and very comfortable by some travelers, but it’s a traditional wooden vessel without luxury features. Expect a simple, authentic ride.
What are the main sights during the cruise?
You’ll enjoy views of Belfast Harbor, passing by boats, yachts, and the iconic Young’s Lobster Pond. Wildlife sightings like seals are also possible.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s a private tour that can accommodate small groups, making it suitable for families and couples. However, pregnant women should consider safety and comfort.
Can I customize the cruise?
The tour is flexible in duration, and your captain can tailor the experience, especially if booking a morning or evening slot for scenic lighting.
What is the cost?
Priced at $211 per group (up to 6 people), it offers good value for a private, personalized experience on Belfast’s water.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for all ages, but pregnant women are advised against participation. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.
What do reviews say about this tour?
Guests consistently praise the friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and seals, though some mention the boat’s basic condition. Overall, it’s received a 4.8-star rating from five reviews, reflecting satisfaction with the experience.
This private harbor cruise in Belfast is a genuine way to enjoy Maine’s coastal charm—simple, scenic, and tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re after wildlife sightings, local stories, or just soaking in the views, it’s a small adventure worth considering.
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