SEA KAYAKING: Sea kayaking is massively popular around Mount Desert Island. Experienced kayakers arrive in droves with their own boats. Novices can sign up for guided tours offered by several outfitters. Many new paddlers have found their inaugural experiences gratifying; others have complained that the quantity of paddlers on quick tours in peak season makes the experience a little too much like a cattle drive to truly enjoy. A variety of options can be found on the island, ranging from a 2.5-hour harbor tour to a 7-hour excursion; plenty of outfitters in Bar Harbor and the other towns offer guided excursions. Try Coastal Kayaking Tours, 48 Cottage Street (tel. 800/526-8615 or 207/288-9605) or National Park Sea Kayak Tours, 39 Cottage Street (tel. 800/347-0940). Rates range from $55 to $70 per person for a 2- to 3-hour harbor, sunset, or half-day tour, up to perhaps $100 for a full-day excursion. Acadia Outfitters, 106 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor (tel. 207/801-9086) offers both guided tours and sea-kayak rentals; with unpredictable weather and squirrelly tides, however, kayakers are advised to have some prior experience before attempting to set out on their own.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.