Puffin Tours
wildlife photos by Lee Runge
Maine Puffin Tours
Experience one of the best puffin tours in Maine with a guided wildlife cruise to Seal Island, home to a restored Atlantic Puffin colony, thriving seabird populations, and abundant Atlantic harbor and grey seals.
Puffin Tours depart Wednesdays and Sundays during nesting season, from the charming coastal town of Stonington, the top lobster fishing port in the country. Our small-group tours offer an unforgettable opportunity to observe Atlantic Puffins, razorbills, Arctic terns, and other pelagic birds in their natural habitat.
Seal Island Wildlife
Seal Island is part of Maine’s historic seabird restoration effort, which successfully brought Atlantic Puffins back to nesting islands along the coast.
During peak season, you may see:
Atlantic Puffins (lots of them!)
Razorbills and Black Guillemots
Common and Arctic Terns
Northern Gannets
Shearwaters and other pelagic seabirds
Harbor seals basking on the rocks
Occasional porpoises
For birders, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts, this is one of the most rewarding birdwatching tours in Maine.
Why Tour with Us?
Our Seal Island puffin tours are designed for comfort, safety, and exceptional wildlife viewing.
Small-group excursions
Experienced local captain
Educational narration from our personable naturalist guides
Respectful wildlife viewing practices
Scenic cruise along the Maine coast through Merchant Row and past Isle au Haut and the Isle au Haut Lighthouse
You will learn about seabird ecology, marine conservation, and experience the remarkable story of the return of puffins to Maine.
Puffin Tour Details
Trip Length: 4-4.5 hours
Season: Peak puffin activity is mid June, July and early August
2026 Dates & Time: Our tours go out most Wednesdays and Sundays, June 14-August 12 at 1:00 pm. Please check our booking page for exact departure dates
2026 Rates: Adults - $80/ Children under 12 - $45
Advance ticket purchase recommended: Spots are limited to maintain a small-group experience
Due to unexploded ordnance from its time as a U.S. Navy bombing target, Seal Island does not allow visitors. Passengers remain on the boat for the tour.
Book Your Puffin Tour
To learn more about where to park and what to bring on your Puffin Tour, please our visit Parking and Important Guidelines pages