American Cruise Line Ships Return to Bangor Waterfront All Summer

Keep your eyes on the river—cruise ships are rolling into Bangor all summer long.

The City of Bangor is excited to welcome back American Cruise Lines to the Bangor Waterfront this season.

This isn't a one time thing, after the first visit at the end of May, there will be another 8 ships coming to visit us in June, another 12 scheduled in July, 12 in August and 6 final stops in September.

Their Maine Coast & Harbors Cruise is one of the best ways to see coastal Maine, traveling from Portland Harbor up to Bangor. Along the way, guests take in Casco Bay, classic New England lighthouses, quiet seaside towns, Acadia National Park, and plenty of working waterfronts that define the region. There’s also time for local food experiences like a traditional lobster bake, plus stories and history that bring Maine’s maritime heritage to life.

The trip finishes in Bangor, so passengers can step off the ship and walk right into shops, restaurants, and maybe a stop by Stephen King's house, on West Broadway.

Stops along the route include Bath, Boothbay Harbor, Rockland, Camden, Belfast, Bar Harbor, Castine, Bucksport, and Portland. Each one adds a different slice of coastal Maine, from busy harbors to quiet village docks.

Read More: 13 Things To Do In Maine This Summer: Ultimate Bucket List Guide

This summer, ships like American Independence, American Maverick, American Legend, and American Mariner are scheduled to call on Bangor, with additional sailings throughout the season and into early fall.

These are smaller, U.S.-flagged ships built for coastal cruising, not massive ocean liners. They focus on comfort and scenery, with open decks for viewing, relaxed public spaces, and an easy pace that fits the Maine coastline.

Check out the American Cruise Lines website for more info, and if you’re down at the Bangor Waterfront this summer, keep an eye out—you might just see a cruise ship easing into port right in the middle of the city!