Most puffin trips are boat trips only - no landings are allowed on the seabird colony islands except for Machias Seal Island conditions
and weather permitting. Machias Seal Island is managed by the Canadian Wildlife Service and permits a limited number of landings from May to August.
Puffin trips generally run from early June through mid to late August when the puffins are in the breeding colonies.
Trip times and schedules vary by island and boat company and may be dependant on tide and sea conditions.
If possible, plan to allow a couple of days to get out to see the puffins and seabirds. Fog or rough
seas can cause the trips to be cancelled.
Offshore Weather
The waters of the Gulf of Maine are fed by the Labrador Current and remain cold all year, especially offshore
and Downeast. This means that the islands offshore and the boat rides to and from them can be cool (or cold) even in
Summer.
The months of July and August frequently see fog and this adds to the coolness and adds dampness.
If taking a Puffin Trip, be prepared for cool, wet weather!
Windbreakers, hats, sweaters, warm socks, extra socks, raingear - they can make a big difference. Bring 'em.
Reservations are highly recommended.
Visit the boat trip companies' websites for information and pricing.
