After years of anticipation we were finally going on a Puffin trip with “Norton of Jonesport”. We were even lucky enough to get landing permits! We started our morning trip by meeting Holly at the Jonesport Marina at 6:45 in the morning. The fog was so thick we wondered if we would be able to go. Holly gave us the good new, the trip was on.
We were very excited as we loaded our lunch and camera gear on the “Chief”, a boat built especially for the business of transporting birdwatchers and nature lovers. Holly introduced us to the rest of the crew Captain Steve, Whitney, (3rd generation Norton to run puffin trips) and the Mate, Jake. After everyone was settled in, we were on our way to start the long journey 25 miles out to Machias Seal Island.
After about an hour of cruising, the sun started burning through the fog and we began to spot our first birds. We caught glimpses of seabirds including razor bills and puffins. Captain Steve announced that we were getting close to the island and soon, through the fog, we were able to make out the shape of the light house. As we rode around the island to be closer to the landing area, great news! Holly said we were good to land. Having landing permits did not guarantee that we would land. Safety is always their first priority, but the people at Norton’s are very experienced, and you have a great chance of landing whenever possible.
By the time we transferred to the landing craft and made our way to the boat ramp, the sun was out and it was a beautiful day. Our group gathered at the waiting area, where we were given some history and rules to follow while we were on the island. Then, we were lead to our blinds.
En route to the blinds there were Puffins and Razorbills flying everywhere. We were amazed at how close the puffins were to us as they stood on the rocks all around us, including on top of the blind we were in. The Puffins seemed as curious of us, as we were of them. We took plenty of pictures as we looked out at the birds all around the island. The puffin nests were marked by blue spots of paint on the rocks. We watched as the adult birds came back from the ocean with mouthfuls of fish and climbed down in between the rocks to feed their young. We even saw a young puffin climb out from under the rocks while we sat in the blind. After a very eventful stay and great photo opportunities, we were lead back the “Chief” for the ride back to the Jonesport Marina. I want to thank everyone at Norton’s of Jonesport for a great trip. We are already looking forward to our next trip!
For more information click here Norton of Jonesport or call 207-497-5933 207-497-2560 or Email:puffins@machiassealisland.com