Bar Harbor’s Cruise Ban Partially Overturned in Major Court Ruling

A federal judge has struck down Bar Harbor, Maine's restrictions on cruise ship passengers outside the summer peak season. US District Court Judge Lance Walker ruled on May 15 that the town's daily cap of 1,000 guests is unconstitutional for all months except July and August, when tourism naturally peaks. The ordinance, adopted in 2022 to reduce downtown congestion and preserve local quality of life, has contributed to a sharp decline in cruise visits—from 182,000 passengers in 2024 to an expected 50,000 in 2026. Ban supporters, led by local businessman Charles Sidman, have pledged to appeal the decision and pursue further voter referendums. The ruling reopens the contentious debate over balancing cruise tourism revenue with residents' concerns about overtourism impacts on the coastal community. Originally reported by Cruise Hive, Catie Kovelman (May 16, 2026).