Written by Chillie Falls, AccessAdventure.net, August 14, 2025
Bar Harbor Cruise Passenger Cap Upheld by Appeals Court
1,000 Daily Limit Stays in Place
Bar Harbor Maine’s controversial daily limit of 1,000 cruise passengers coming ashore will remain in place, following a key federal appeals court decision — though one legal question remains unresolved.
On August 11, 2025, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit upheld most of a lower court ruling in favor of the ordinance, which was approved by local voters in 2022 to curb congestion in the busy port town and gateway to Acadia National Park.
Supporters argue the cap protects residents’ quality of life and enhances the visitor experience, while opponents say it risks hurting tourism revenue. The three-judge panel — Chief Judge David Barron, retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, and Judge William Kayatta — agreed Bar Harbor has the authority to enforce the restriction, finding that federal laws on ports, navigation, or immigration do not preempt it.
However, the court sent part of the case back to U.S. District Judge Lance Walker to re-examine whether the ordinance places an “excessive burden” on interstate commerce compared to its benefits for the town.
The dispute began in 2022 when residents placed the measure on the ballot, passing it with 58% of the vote. The 1,000-passenger daily limit was scheduled to take effect with the 2024 cruise season, running each year from spring through fall.
Would you like to visit Bar Harbor? Email chillie@bookalaska.net
Rolling Through Bar Harbor: A Wheelchair-Friendly Coastal Escape
When most people picture Bar Harbor, Maine, they imagine sailboats bobbing in the harbor, the smell of fresh lobster rolls drifting from seaside shacks, and the dramatic cliffs of Acadia National Park rising just beyond town. As a wheelchair traveler, I wondered: Could I enjoy all of this without worrying about accessibility? The answer, I’m happy to report, is a resounding yes.
Bar Harbor, with its blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure, has made thoughtful strides in making its attractions more inclusive. While some of its cobblestone streets and historic buildings require a little extra planning, there’s an abundance of accessible experiences waiting for visitors on wheels.
Arrival & Getting Around
If you’re arriving by cruise ship, Bar Harbor operates as a tender port, which can be tricky for wheelchair users. Some tender boats are equipped with lifts, but not all — so check with your cruise line in advance. If you’re arriving by car or shuttle, downtown Bar Harbor has curb cuts at most street corners, and the sidewalks are generally wide enough for easy navigation.
Accessible taxis and shuttles can be arranged ahead of time, and the Island Explorer bus system — operating in and around Acadia National Park — offers wheelchair-accessible vehicles on request.
Bernard Taxi Service
Accessible Things to Do in Bar Harbor
1. Stroll the Shore Path
This picturesque path runs along the water’s edge for about a mile. Much of it is flat and paved or hard-packed gravel, making it manageable for many wheelchair users. The views of Frenchman Bay, dotted with fishing boats and yachts, are simply unforgettable.
2. Explore Acadia National Park
Acadia is the jewel of Mount Desert Island, and it’s impressively wheelchair-friendly in many areas. The park’s Sand Beach and Thunder Hole both have accessible viewing areas, while the carriage roads offer miles of hard-packed, gently graded trails. The Jesup Path boardwalk is an especially beautiful and accessible route through birch groves and wetlands.
3. Visit the Abbe Museum
This museum, located downtown, is fully accessible and offers engaging exhibits about the Wabanaki Nations and Maine’s Indigenous history. Wide doorways, elevators, and accessible restrooms make the visit smooth and enjoyable.
4. Whale Watching & Harbor Cruises
Some tour companies in Bar Harbor offer wheelchair-accessible vessels, though it’s essential to book in advance and confirm boarding procedures. The thrill of spotting whales or puffins is well worth the effort.
5. Shop & Dine Downtown
Many restaurants and shops in Bar Harbor are housed in historic buildings, but several have been updated with ramps and accessible restrooms. From accessible seafood restaurants with harbor views to charming souvenir shops, you can roll right into the coastal Maine vibe.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Plan ahead for tender ports: If arriving by cruise, confirm tender accessibility before booking.
- Check seasonal hours: Many attractions and services operate only from spring to fall.
- Bring layers: Coastal Maine weather can change quickly, and you’ll want to be comfortable whether you’re on a breezy pier or in a shaded park trail.
Bar Harbor proves that you can combine rugged natural beauty with accessibility, offering wheelchair users a chance to enjoy Maine’s coastal magic without compromise. Whether you’re gazing at the Atlantic from the Shore Path, savoring a lobster roll, or watching the sun set over Frenchman Bay, the memories you’ll take home will be as warm and welcoming as the town itself.
For cruise information stopping in Bar Harbor, email chillie@bookalaska.net