Kent Island

Each August, a lucky few get the chance to travel to one of Bowdoin’s most remote and remarkable outposts: the Bowdoin Scientific Station on Kent Island, located in the Bay of Fundy off the coast of New Brunswick, Canada. This island is rich in natural beauty and ecological significance. You’ll travel by van, ferry, and lobster boat to reach this field station surrounded by intertidal wonders and bird colonies. 

Once on the island, you’ll stay in a bunkhouse and spend your days exploring tidal zones, birdwatching, or making art. You’ll be joined by Ian Kyle, Bowdoin’s Assistant Director of Kent Island, who will share stories, ecology, and Kent’s rich scientific legacy—including its long-running storm petrel research project.

Students participating in this trip must have a valid US Passport or Visa to enter Canada.

You can read more about Kent Island here: https://www.bowdoin.edu/kent-island/index.html

See Packing List. 

Sample Itinerary

Wednesday

•  Depart Bowdoin and drive, drive, and drive some more
  • Cross the U.S.–Canada border. 
• Take the ferry to Grand Manan Island.
• After the ferry, drive to Seal Cove, where you’ll hop on a boat for the final leg to Kent Island.

Thursday & Friday

• Explore the island with Ian:
  • Walk the shoreline, hike the inland trails, visit research sites, and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
  • Learn about Kent’s history and science—especially its storm petrel population.

Saturday

• Wednesday's transportation plan in reverse. Clean camping gear and return borrowed equipment when you get back to campus before returning to your dorms.