Bar Harbor is a gem that unfortunately is being overrun by cruise ship tourists (“In busy Bar Harbor, fears of paradise lost,’’ Page A1, Sept. 3). Having spent about a week there recently as a land-based tourist, I was awed by its charm and by Acadia National Park. But the onslaught of cruise ship passengers, while good for the economy, spoils the area’s natural beauty and congests the park. The number of visiting ships should be limited, whether or not a ship terminal is built.

Michael Schilling

Millswood, Australia

In reference to the dilemma faced by the residents of Bar Harbor over increasing the number of tourists arriving by cruise ship, the solution is simple: Allow the ships to visit only from October to April.

Michael Grunko

Somerville