Port Guide | United States | Worth a Wander
Rockland
Isabella Moreno | Editor
Published on 2025-04-30
Congratulations: you've successfully docked in Rockland, Maine-a quintessentially stubborn, artsy, and slightly salty coastal town where lobster traps outnumber residents, and galleries sprout faster than craft breweries in Portland. Once a scrappy limestone and shipbuilding hub, Rockland now flaunts its maritime grit with a proud, paint-stained hand, offering views so picturesque they practically beg to be mocked on postcards. While you're here (for a few leisurely days of shore leave), amble into the Farnsworth Art Museum, home to one of America's finest collections that somehow, improbably, thrives just steps from bait shacks and weather-beaten wharfs. And because the sea runs deep in the veins here, why not hop a ferry or snag a kayak to scout out one of the area's historic lighthouses-keeping mariners alive since long before Instagrammers discovered them? Welcome ashore, adventurers: Rockland awaits, charmingly unfussed and refreshingly real.
United States has 6 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Rockland is known for its art scene and picturesque coastal views. Don't miss the Farnsworth Art Museum and nearby lighthouses.
Where do cruise ships dock in Rockland?
Port Name Rockland
Country United States
Region Northeast USA
Ship Terminal Rockland Harbor Terminal
Port Type Dedicated Port
Accessibility The port is located approximately 1 mile from the city center, accessible by foot or local transport services.
What's the weather like in Rockland?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to September)
Climate Temperate maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters.
Weather Notes Summer months are warm but can experience occasional rain. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in early fall.
Temperature Range 68F to 80F (20C to 27C)
High Temp 85F
Low Temp 10F
Average Temp 56F
What do I need to know about Rockland?
Language English
Currency US Dollar (USD)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 7,300
Timezone Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) / Eastern Standard Time (EST)
How do I get around Rockland?
Local taxis, shuttles, and rental cars are available; some cruise lines may offer shuttle services into town.
What are The Best Things to do in Rockland?
Discover what you should do while you're in Rockland.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Maine Lighthouse Museum
1 Park Dr, Rockland, ME 04841
Explore the history of lighthouses in America, especially the Northeast maritime culture.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Tour Farnsworth Art Museum
16 Museum St, Rockland, ME 04841
View works emphasizing artists from Maine, notably Andrew Wyeth.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Visit
3115 Bristol Rd, Bristol, ME 04558
Visit an iconic, rocky coastline lighthouse significant to Maine's maritime history.
Distance from Terminal: 30 miles
Rockland Sculpture Walk
N/A
Explore locally-created sculptures throughout Downtown Rockland.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Jameson Point, Rockland, ME 04841
Walk the iconic mile-long granite breakwater for stunning ocean views.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Climb Mt. Battie for Coastal Panorama
280 Belfast Rd, Camden, ME 04843
Hike or drive up scenic Mt. Battie for panoramic views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay.
Distance from Terminal: 9 miles
Visit Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
132 Botanical Gardens Dr, Boothbay, ME 04537
Wander the Northeast's largest botanical garden showcasing native species.
Distance from Terminal: 40 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Maine Lobster Festival
Harbor Park, Rockland, ME 04841
Annual celebration of Northeast maritime culture and Maine's finest seafood.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Sail on a Historic Schooner from Camden
Camden Harbor, Camden, ME
Experience traditional sailing aboard centuries-old schooners along beautiful Penobscot Bay.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
Lobster Boat Tour and Lobster Harvest
Rockland Harbor, ME
Join local fishermen to haul lobster traps and learn the traditional method.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Participate in a Clambake
N/A
Enjoy a traditional Maine clambake broadcasted seaside by locals.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Overnight Trips
Island Overnight Camping at Vinalhaven Island
N/A
Camp overnight on a picturesque island known for lobstering and untouched nature.
Distance from Terminal: 15 miles
Stay overnight at Samoset Resort
220 Warrenton St, Rockport, ME 04856
Luxurious waterside accommodations with distinctive Northeastern charm.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
A Little Extra
Eat at Red's Eats
41 Water St, Wiscasset, ME 04578
A legendary roadside shack serving the best Maine lobster rolls in a unique setting.
Distance from Terminal: 35 miles
Attend the Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors Show
N/A
Annual summer showing unique Maine craftsmanship in boats, homes, and coastal products.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Saltwater Taffy at Wasses Hot Dogs
2 N Main St, Rockland, ME 04841
Savor popular Northeastern saltwater taffy and classic hot dogs.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
United States Regional Tip
Value of Independence It's common for young adults to live independently and make personal life and work decisions autonomously.