USA Machias Seal Island (via Boat from Maine)

Machias Seal Island is a small, rocky island located in disputed waters (US and Canada both claim the area) between the Gulf of Maine and the Bay of Fundy. It is a great spot known for its unique political status and its immense importance as a seabird sanctuary.

200-500mm will be a great focal length to have. You will be in a small blind for 2 hours with three other people (likely photographers). Be prepared and communicate that you will rotate within the blind every 10 minutes to ensure everyone gets to see everything there. Expect lots of puffins, razorbills, and maybe even some ganets along with some other shorebirds. July and August the puffins will come back with fish to feed their young in the burrows. Earier in the season you will not get photos with fish.

You reach the Island by boat leaving from Cutler, Maine. As of 2025, you do not need a passport to get on the island (run by Canadian researchers for the most part). The season to visit is usually May-August, and is highly weather dependent. Learn more on https://www.boldcoast.com/ If you decide to go, have a date in mind and be ready to pick up tickets within a few minutes of their availability.