Directions: From Route 3, take Route 102. After passing through Southwest Harbor, look for Route 102A on your left. Look for signs for the Bass Harbor Ferry, and follow them. You will take a right on a narrow road which goes down to the harbor. If you can find a place to park, you can launch on the rocky beach between two restaurants which are just before the ferry terminal. The restaurants are just after an intersection with a small road coming in from your left. If you see the ferry terminal, you've gone just a little too far. I know it sounds dumb, but I think you'll find it.
Paddling Information: From Bass Harbor, I recommend paddling north along the western side of Mt. Desert. That's a right as you are leaving the harbor. It is tempting to head in the other direction toward the Bass Harbor Lighthouse, but that brings you into more open ocean, and at times there are strong currents in the area near the lighthouse.
You can also head up into the harbor, and paddle in the tidal marshes. However, you must watch the tides or it will be difficult to get in and out of the marshes. Sorry, I have not done this, so I cannot advise you on the timing. Ask some of the locals for advice.