SEAL ISLAND PUFFIN CRUISE

Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge offers ideal habitat for a large colony of Atlantic puffins.  Razorbills, black guillemots, common and Arctic terns, and common eiders also nest here, and it’s the southernmost breeding colony for the great cormorant. Northern gannets and common murres are occasionally seen diving for fish in the rich waters that surround the island.  Periodically, a hungry merlin or peregrine falcon will make a pass in search of a seabird meal.  We also expect to have good views of harbor seals and gray seals with their pups.  Meet your trip leaders at the ferry terminal in Stonington at 12:30 p.m.  The boat leaves promptly at 1:00 p.m., and this will give us all enough time to park, gather our gear, use the restroom, and scan the harbor together before departure.  Dress warmly, and please bring your binoculars and/or camera!

Note: Space is limited, and this trip often fills quite early.  Please make your reservations directly with the Isle Au Haut Boat Company, 207-367-5193, and tell them you are with the Penobscot Valley Chapter group.  The trip is unlikely to cancel for bad weather, since the boat has an enclosed, heated cabin with large viewing windows in addition to plenty of open-air deck space. However, if the trip is canceled by the Captain for any reason, you will receive a full refund. You can also obtain a refund by calling to cancel any time prior to departure.