As there are no bridges, you must have your own boat, or hire one to get here.
There are two regularly-scheduled passenger-only ferry services to the Cranberry Isles, plus a water taxi:
The ferries encourage visiting both Great and Little Cranberry Island on the same ticket.
Please note that the above ferries do not carry cars. They carry only passengers, pets, and small freight, such as bicycles.
Tickets
No reservations are necessary on the regularly-scheduled ferries, though, of course, you must call ahead for the water taxi.
Tickets are bought on-board while the ferry is under way.
Ferry tickets are good for a visit to both islands (Great Cranberry and Little Cranberry.) Since the ferries make several round trips each day, it's possible to get off and tour one island, then re-board on a later trip stopping at the other island, and finally re-board on a still-later trip to return to Mount Desert.
Boarding
To get on the ferry you must step over the side of the ship. There are movable steps
on the dock, and also built-in steps inside the boat, to help you. Also, the deck hand holds the arm of anyone who
seems unsteady on their feet. Most elderly people have no trouble getting on.
Queasy Riders
The waters between the Cranberry Isles and Mount Desert, known as the Great Harbor, are relatively calm since the Cranberry Isles themselves block strong waves from the open Atlantic.
Persons subject to seasickness are advised that the calmest passage is from Northeast Harbor to Great Cranberry Island, via the Beal & Bunker ferry. This is because the dock on Great Cranberry directly faces Northeast Harbor to the north, while the open Atlantic is at the opposite (south) side of the island. Thus, Great Cranberry casts a "wave shadow" resulting in smoother seas, even on windy days.
Car, van, and truck access
For longer stays, or for easy handicap access, you can bring your car, van, or truck over on a barge, by appointment with Beal & Bunker, tel. (207) 244-3575, or J.P. Berzinis, Inc., tel. (207) 244-5525.
bkomusin@