The Port
A port city unlike
any other in New England.
Eastport sits on Moose Island in Passamaquoddy Bay — the easternmost city in the United States and home to the deepest natural seaport on the entire East Coast. The Bay of Fundy tidal system produces some of the most powerful tidal currents on the planet, making Eastport a port of genuine nautical significance. By the mid-19th century it was ranked the second-busiest trading port in the U.S., behind only New York City. The sardine canning industry later made it famous across the country. Today, major cruise lines have rediscovered what traders and fishermen have known for centuries — this is a remarkable place to arrive by water.
2026 Cruise Schedule
Upcoming ship
arrivals.
Schedule based on publicly available cruise line data. Always verify exact times with your cruise line before arriving. Times are approximate arrival — ships typically stay 6–10 hours.
| Date |
Ship |
Cruise Line |
Passengers |
Arrival |
| July 12, 2026 | ms Zuiderdam | Holland America Line | ~2,364 | 10:00 AM |
| Aug 16, 2026 | ms Volendam | Holland America Line | ~1,718 | 9:00 AM |
| Oct 4, 2026 | ms Zuiderdam | Holland America Line | ~2,364 | 10:00 AM |
For the most current schedule including additional sailings, visit cruisetimetables.com or check with the Eastport Port Authority.
The deepest natural
seaport on the East Coast.
The Port of Eastport has deep-water capabilities that few East Coast ports can match. Larger vessels anchor in Passamaquoddy Bay and tender passengers ashore to the breakwater terminal — putting cruise guests right in the heart of Eastport's historic downtown waterfront within minutes of arrival.
⚓
Port Type
Deep-water natural seaport
🌊
Tidal Range
Up to 28 feet (Bay of Fundy)
🏛️
Terminal
Eastport Breakwater — downtown waterfront
🇺🇸
Distinction
Easternmost city in the United States
Shore Excursions
A day ashore
in Eastport.
🦞
Waterfront & Seafood
1–2 hours
Walk Water Street from the breakwater — galleries, shops, and fresh Maine seafood restaurants are steps from where you come ashore. Waco Diner and The Happy Crab are both right on the water.
🎨
Arts & Culture
1–3 hours
The Eastport Arts Center and Tides Institute are world-class cultural institutions in a town of 1,300 people. The gallery district on Water Street showcases regional artists. A genuinely surprising arts scene for a small Maine port.
🌊
Tidal Observation
1 hour
The Old Sow whirlpool — the largest tidal whirlpool in the Western Hemisphere — is visible from the Eastport waterfront on the right tide. Ask locally when to look. Cobscook Bay's 28-foot tides are unlike anything in the Lower 48.
🐋
Wildlife Tours
2–4 hours
Whale watching and wildlife boat tours depart from the Eastport waterfront. Finback and minke whales are regularly seen in Passamaquoddy Bay. Bald eagles are visible from the shore without any effort at all.
🏛️
Historic Walking Tour
1–2 hours
Eastport's 19th-century downtown is remarkably well-preserved. Federal-era buildings, a storied military history involving both the War of 1812 and the American Revolution, and walking distance to everything. Pick up a self-guided map at the waterfront.
🚌
Day Trip to Lubec
3–4 hours
Quoddy Head State Park and the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse — the easternmost point in the U.S. — are 45 minutes from Eastport. A taxi or rental car excursion for those wanting more of the Bold Coast.
Where to Eat Ashore
Waterfront dining
in Eastport.
🍔
Waco Diner
Downtown Eastport
A classic Maine waterfront diner serving burgers, chowder, and lobster rolls. A local institution and the first stop for most cruise passengers coming ashore.
🦀
The Happy Crab
Water Street, Eastport
Casual seafood on the waterfront with outdoor seating and harbor views. Fresh Maine seafood, cold drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere.
🍺
Horn Run Brewing
Eastport
Local craft brewery in downtown Eastport. A relaxed spot for a cold beer and pub food after a morning of exploring the waterfront.
🥘
Old Sow Grill
Eastport
Solid American grill food in downtown Eastport. Named after the famous Old Sow whirlpool visible from the bay. Good option for groups with varied tastes.
Staying longer
on the Bold Coast?
If your cruise itinerary lets you extend your stay — or if you're planning an overland trip to see the Bold Coast before or after your sailing — our trip planner will build a custom itinerary for your time ashore.
Plan My Bold Coast Trip