HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT MONHEGAN ISLAND? FERRY PRICES & PLANNING TIPS
A day trip to Monhegan Island typically costs $30–$32 per person for ferry tickets, with additional costs for food or optional shopping on the island. Since there are no cars, admission gates, or tour fees, most of your expense goes toward transportation.
With about 5 hours to explore on your average day trip, Monhegan is one of Maine’s most affordable coastal day trips.
Ferry Prices to Monhegan Island
Ferry tickets are the primary cost of visiting Monhegan Island. Because Monhegan is a car-free island with no entrance gates or attraction fees, transportation by boat is the main expense most visitors plan for. Once your ferry is booked, many of the island’s best experiences — hiking scenic cliff trails, exploring quiet coastal paths, and enjoying ocean views — come at no additional cost.
Understanding ferry pricing ahead of time helps you budget accurately and choose the best departure times for a smooth day trip from New Harbor.
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (13+) | $32 |
| Youths (2–12) | $30 |
| Children under 2 | $10 |
| Dogs (leashed/kenneled) | $21 |
| Group Rate (30+) | $28/person |
📌 Travelers must book two one-way tickets for a round trip. Learn more about the Monhegan Island ferry service and book your crossing.
How Long Is the Ferry Ride to Monhegan Island?
The ferry ride takes about one hour each way, traveling 10 miles into the Gulf of Maine through Muscongus Bay.
Along the crossing, passengers often spot local wildlife, including seals resting on rocks, bald eagles overhead, harbor porpoises moving through the water, and a variety of seabirds along the coastline.
How Long Do You Get on the Island?
Daytrippers spend about 5 hours on Monhegan Island during peak season schedules.
Typical Daytrip Schedule:
-
9:00 AM New Harbor → Monhegan
-
3:15 PM Monhegan → New Harbor
Visitors planning to stay longer can choose from charming inns and guesthouses. Check out our guide to Monhegan Island accommodations to compare lodging options
What Other Costs Should You Budget For?
Most of Monhegan Island’s top experiences are free, so beyond your ferry ticket, your extra costs mainly come down to food and any optional purchases.
Hiking trails, coastal viewpoints, and exploring the village are all open to visitors at no charge, making it easy to enjoy a full day without spending much.
You can explore a variety of things to do on Monhegan Island ahead of your trip to plan how you’ll spend your time.
Food
The island has several small cafés and seasonal restaurants offering casual meals, snacks, and drinks. Many visitors also bring a picnic to enjoy along the shoreline or on a scenic overlook, which can help keep costs down.
Hiking & Sightseeing
The island has no cars and no paved roads, so walking trails lead to quiet coves, dramatic viewpoints, and peaceful coastal scenery, all free to access.
Art Galleries
Monhegan has a long history as an artists’ retreat, and its galleries welcome visitors to browse at no cost. If something catches your eye, artwork and locally made goods are available for purchase, but buying is always optional. 🙂
Why Monhegan Island Is an Affordable Maine Adventure
Unlike many coastal destinations, Monhegan has no entrance fees, parking fees, or activity charges.
Your ferry ticket covers:
✔ Scenic ocean crossing
✔ Wildlife viewing en route
✔ Access to hiking trails
✔ Island exploration
What Makes the Ferry Ride Part of the Experience
The ferry boat ride is a highlight, not just transportation.
You’ll depart from a working waterfront where lobstermen unload their catch, cruise past islands, and possibly see seals sunning on rocks.
Learn more about what to expect on your Monhegan Island ferry service, from coastal wildlife sightings to scenic views along the way.
FAQs About Visiting Monhegan Island
Do you need reservations for the ferry?
Yes, especially during peak season.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs are allowed for $21.
Are there cars on Monhegan Island?
No, it’s a walking-only island.
Is Monhegan Island good for kids?
Yes, hiking, wildlife, and beaches make it family-friendly.
Where do ferries depart from?
Ferries depart from 89 State Route 32, New Harbor, ME
How many Google reviews does Hardy Boat Cruises have?
Hardy Boat Cruises has 4.8 stars from over 1,500 Google reviews.
Plan Your Trip to Monhegan Island
Ready to explore one of Maine’s most peaceful and scenic islands? A ferry ride with Hardy Boat Cruises is the first step toward a day filled with coastal views, cliffside hikes, wildlife sightings, and the quiet charm Monhegan is known for.
With about five hours to explore during a typical day trip, you’ll have plenty of time to walk the trails, visit local galleries, enjoy lunch, and soak in the island’s natural beauty. Secure your seats in advance so your trip goes smoothly from departure in New Harbor to your return ride across Muscongus Bay.
Book your Monhegan Island ferry tickets and start planning your getaway today!