Harbor Master Division
Ensuring safe and efficient harbor operations in Bar Harbor
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About Our Division
The Harbor Master Division is responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of Bar Harbor. We oversee mooring assignments, enforce harbor regulations, and provide assistance to boaters. Our goal is to maintain a welcoming and enjoyable environment for all who use the harbor.
Key Responsibilities
Contact Information
Address
3 Town Pier, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Phone
207-288-5571
Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Maine Shellfish Information
Stay informed about current shellfish growing areas, closures, and water quality classifications through Maine's Department of Marine Resources.
Visit the Maine DMR Interactive MapThe map shows:
- Current shellfish growing areas
- Active closure areas
- Water quality classifications
- Aquaculture lease information
Current Harbor Conditions
Real-time conditions at Bar Harbor
Wind
Light
5-10 mph SWWater Level
Normal
2.1 ft MLLWNext Tide
High Tide
2:30 PMTide Range
Moderate
10.8 ft rangeCurrent Phase
Rising
2 hrs to highToday's Tides
2 High / 2 Low
Next: High 2:30 PMReal-time conditions from NOAA Station 8413320. Data updates every 10 minutes. Always check current marine forecasts before departing.
7-Day Tide Forecast
High and low tide predictions for the next week
Tide Schedule
| Date | High Tide | Low Tide | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AM | ft | PM | ft | AM | ft | PM | ft | |
All times are in local time (EST/EDT). Heights are in feet above Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW).
Mooring & Docking Services
The Harbor Master Division provides comprehensive mooring and docking services for vessels visiting Bar Harbor. Our modern facilities and professional staff ensure a safe and convenient experience for all boaters.
Book slips, docks, and moorings at the Bar Harbor Municipal Pier through our online reservation system.
Booking Information
2022 Rates
Rates ending June 30th:
Rates starting July 1st:
A convenience fee is automatically added to these rates and will be reflected during booking.
Services & Amenities
Available Services
Slip Reservations
Easy online booking through Dockwa for slips and moorings
Harbor Regulations
Enforcement of harbor rules and regulations for orderly operations
Harbor Regulations & Guidelines
Access the complete harbor regulations and guidelines for safe harbor operations. All boaters and vessel operators must comply with these regulations while using Bar Harbor facilities.
Key Regulations
Mooring Requirements
Annual Registration
All permanent moorings must be registered annually with the Harbor Master by May 1st, including vessel information, charted position, and mooring type/condition. An annual fee is required.
Placement Permission
Placing any mooring in the harbor requires prior application and permission from the Harbor Master, who designates the location and ensures safety and best use of space.
Equipment Standards
Moorings must meet specific stone weight, chain size, and scope requirements, and be visibly numbered. Unregistered or unsafe moorings are subject to removal.
Prohibited Mooring
Mooring watercraft to buoys, beacons, or any Town channel markers is prohibited.
Speed Limits
Safe Operation
Watercraft must be operated at a rate of speed and in a manner that does not endanger other craft or persons.
Headway Speed
Speed must be reduced to "headway speed" (the slowest speed that maintains steerage way) in special anchorage areas, narrow channels, and congested mooring areas.
Time Limits (Temporary Tie-ups)
Municipal Pier
Maximum 1 hour without Harbor Master permission.
Fisherman's Float
Maximum 15 minutes at the northern end; maximum 1 hour at other parts without Harbor Master permission.
Public Floats
Maximum 15 minutes at the eastern end; longer periods generally require Harbor Master permission.
Finger Floats (Western Side)
Maximum 1 hour without Harbor Master permission.
Launching Ramp
Maximum 30 minutes without Harbor Master permission.
Residential Use
Watercraft used primarily as residences require specific permission from the Harbor Master and the owner of the shore rights.
Environmental & Usage Restrictions
Marine Life Cleaning Prohibited
Cleaning or disposal of any marine life (fish, lobsters, scallops, shrimp, clams, bait, or parts thereof) is prohibited at any float, pier, mooring, or anchorage within the inner harbor.
Trawling Restrictions
Operating watercraft when towing a drag or trawl is prohibited within 300 feet of any dock, pier, or wharf, or within 100 feet of any mooring, or within the defined harbor boundaries.
Channel Interference
Interfering with vessel passage in channels, including excessive prop wash alongside floats, is prohibited.
Sailing Restrictions
Operating watercraft under sail with an operable auxiliary engine is prohibited within the inner harbor.
Questions about Regulations?
Contact the Harbor Master office for clarification on any regulations or to report violations.