Partners In Cruise: Maine

Working Together to Share Maine’s Beauty and Maintain Vital Economic Support from Cruise

CLIA member cruise lines are committed to responsible tourism. Travelers from around the world cruise to Maine to enjoy the natural beauty, lighthouses, coastal towns and culture. The cruise industry is dedicated to safeguarding these experiences for generations to come. We collaborate with local communities, city officials and other stakeholders on solutions that help preserve great resident and visitor experiences while protecting the economic benefits of cruise tourism that many local businesses rely on.

Responsible Tourism

Protecting Maine’s Ports: 

The cruise industry works closely with Coastal Maine communities for responsible tourism solutions and managed growth.  In 2023, cruise contributed more than $30 million in economic impact to coastal Maine communities.  An estimated 454,000 cruise passengers visited Maine in 2023, from 379 ship visits across eight ports, during the April to November season. 

Canada/New England cruises generally include Bar Harbor and/or Portland – two of North America’s highest-rated cruise destinations.  Eastport and Rockland have also opened their doors to more cruise visitors, with additional towns such as Searsport considering the opportunity.  Most Maine ports currently have fewer than 5,000 cruise passenger arrivals a year. 

Maine’s cruise schedule can be viewed at Cruise Maine. 

Renowned for stunning fall foliage, lighthouses and lobster, Maine also offers award-winning restaurants, artisanal shops, historic sites and a wide variety of outdoor activities including access to Acadia National Park.   

Explore Maine’s Ports

Click the links below to learn more about Maine's Ports

CruiseMaine

2023 Annual Report

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National Park Service

Tourism to Acadia National Park contributes $685 million to the local economy

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News Center Maine

Rockland caps off record-breaking cruise ship season

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Bangor Daily News

Midcoast ports see opportunity as Bar Harbor limits cruise ships

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Midcost Villager

Queen Mary 2 Brings Thousands to Rockland Area

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Maine Public

Portland exploring ways to reduce emissions of cruise ships docked in port

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Community Voices

How Cruise Tourism Sustains Local Businesses