Boat TOURS

Portland, ME

Harbors and Horizons, Explore Portland by Boat!

Discover the beauty of Portland, ME from the water with our unforgettable boat tours. Cruise through Casco Bay, past historic lighthouses, rugged coastlines, and scenic islands while taking in breathtaking ocean views. Let our knowledgeable local guides bring the maritime history to life as you glide across the waves.

Family-Friendly Boat Cruise & Fort Exploration

Fort Tour

Step back in time on a two-hour journey to Fort Scammel. Explore hidden underground passages of this historic coastal defense fort on House Island. Learn its storied past while soaking in stunning Casco Bay views. A must for history buffs and adventure seekers!

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Boat Tour

Historic Sights & Coastal Views

Scenic Lighthouse Harbor Cruise

Experience the beauty and history of Casco Bay on this scenic harbor cruise. Marvel at the iconic lighthouses, historic forts, and picturesque islands that define Portland’s coastline. This tour is a must for anyone wanting to soak in Maine’s maritime charm.

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Boat Tour

Oysters, Bubbles & Bay Views

Pearls and Prosecco

Savor fresh oysters and crisp prosecco as you cruise Casco Bay’s sparkling waters. Whether celebrating or just indulging, this tour blends flavor and relaxation for a truly delicious experience on the water.

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Boat Tour

Great For Couples or Friends

Sunset Cruise

Relax on a sunset cruise through Casco Bay as the sky bursts with color. Glide past lighthouses, islands, and Portland’s waterfront, soaking in panoramic views and a peaceful ambiance. The perfect way to end your day with stunning scenery and pure relaxation.

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Boat Tour

Portland’s Unforgettable Coastal Landmarks

Casco Bay

Historically a key shipping route, Casco Bay has played a central role in Portland’s maritime economy, particularly in trade and fishing.

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse

Built in 1897, this lighthouse has been crucial in guiding ships safely into Portland Harbor, particularly during the age of industrial shipping.

Bug Light Park Lighthouse

Constructed in 1855, this lighthouse marks the entrance to the Portland Harbor and is part of the historic Portland Breakwater, designed to protect the harbor from rough seas.

Portland Head Lighthouse

Established in 1791, Portland Head is one of the oldest lighthouses in the U.S. and was commissioned by George Washington to help guide ships along the coast.

Fort Gorges

Built in the mid-1800s, this Civil War-era fort was never fully completed but was intended to protect Portland Harbor from naval attacks during wartime.

Fort Scammel

Originally constructed in the 19th century to defend Portland Harbor, this fort on House Island was an important military site during the Civil War and World War I.

Peaks Island

Home to a historic community, Peaks Island served as a summer retreat for Portland’s wealthy in the late 1800s and was strategically used during both World Wars for military defense.

Halfway Rock

A small rock off the coast of Macworth Island, Halfway Rock is known for being a popular spot for seal spotting!

Little Diamond Island

Once a military stronghold, Little Diamond Island features several historic homes and remnants of its past as a key defense point during the 19th century.

Great Diamond Island

Known for its role as a military outpost during the Civil War, this island later became a private retreat and continues to hold historical significance as a site for Portland’s early settlers.

Diamond Cove

Home to a former military fort, Diamond Cove served as a key site for coastal defense during the Spanish-American War and has remnants of its military past.

Fore River

Historically a hub of shipbuilding and industrial activity, the Fore River was home to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and continues to be a major shipping route.

Portland’s Working Waterfront

Once the center of Portland’s bustling maritime industry, the working waterfront is steeped in the history of Portland’s shipbuilding, fishing, and cargo shipping legacy.

Cushing Island

An island with military history, Cushing Island was the site of several fortifications used to protect Portland during various wars and was later developed as a private retreat.

Ram Island Ledge Lighthouse

Built in 1905, this lighthouse sits on a rocky outcrop marking the entrance to Portland Harbor and has been a key navigational aid for mariners entering Casco Bay for over a century.

13+ Years of Happy Travelers

Reviews from our Portland Explorers

Frequently Asked Questions

We offer a variety of tours to explore Portland, Maine, including Walking Tours like the Pub History Walk and Sips and Slices, Van Tours such as Lighthouse Tour and Local Pour Tour, and Boat Tours like the Harbor Cruise and Sunset Cruise.

All tours begin at Portland Beer Hub, the home of Portland Explorer and the best craft beer bar and retail shop in town. Enjoy cozy couches, air conditioning, a clean bathroom, and a welcoming environment in downtown Portland. Guests receive 10% off drinks, snacks, food, and craft beverages to enjoy before your tour or to take home after the tour.

Tour durations vary depending on the type. Walking tours, van tours, and boat tours typically last 2 to 3 hours. Some speciality tours may be longer. Make sure and check the tour details for your specific tour.

Yes, many of our tours are family-friendly. Some tours with alcohol tastings, like the Beers, BBQ, and Bourbon tour, are 21+ only. Please review tour descriptions for age recommendations.

Our only tour in which we allow pets is our Portland History Walking Tour. Service animals are allowed on our other tours.

Yes! We can arrange private tours tailored to your group’s interests. Contact us directly for details via our Private Groups Booking Page.

Absolutely! We provide custom tours for corporate outings, team-building events, and large groups.

Yes, we love helping celebrate special occasions with personalized tours. Contact us to discuss your ideas.

CHECK IN LOCATION

Your tour will begin at the Portland Beer Hub, the home of Portland Explorer and the best craft beer bar and retail shop in Maine. Enjoy the following amenities as you comfortably wait for your tour to begin. 

  • Air conditioning
  • Clean bathroom
  • Comfortable seating
  • Water
  • Beer, cider, and gluten-free options
  • Snacks