The working waterfront of Portland, Maine serves up excellent boat tours that combine local history, lighthouses, and raw coastal beauty. Smart travelers skip the fancy yacht excursions and opt for authentic experiences aboard traditional lobster boats, where seasoned captains share genuine insights about Maine maritime life.
The most worthwhile trips include the classic lighthouse tours (perfect for photographers and history buffs), sunset cruises along Casco Bay (great value with stunning views), and intimate lobster boat excursions (where you’ll learn about Maine’s fishing heritage from actual lobstermen).
Let’s explore the top boat tours that deliver the best bang for your buck in Portland.
Key Points
- The Portland Head Light Cruise offers a 105-minute tour highlighting the iconic Portland Head Light and other historic lighthouses.
- The Best of Maine Lighthouse Scenic Cruise features views of four lighthouses and civil war-era forts, with indoor/outdoor seating and a beverage/snack bar.
- The Sunset Lighthouse Cruise provides a 1.5-hour tour with complimentary craft beer or hard seltzer, showcasing iconic lighthouses, historic forts, and fishing piers.
- The Maine Lighthouses Sightseeing Cruise is a 105-minute tour focusing on views of historic lighthouses, including the renowned Portland Head Light.
- The Schooner Tall Ship Cruise offers a 2-hour immersive nautical adventure with informative commentary about Portland’s lighthouses and coastline.
Portland: Sightseeing Cruise to Portland Head Light
One of the top sightseeing cruises in Portland, Maine is the Portland Head Light Cruise. This 105-minute tour takes visitors past Casco Bay’s historic lighthouses, including the iconic Portland Head Light.
The cruise provides stunning views of the Maine coastline and an opportunity to learn about the area’s maritime history from the knowledgeable crew.
With a 4.8-star rating from 471 reviews and a price of $49 per person, the Portland Head Light Cruise is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area.
The cruise operates regularly throughout the day, making it easy to fit into any itinerary.
Read our full review: Portland: Sightseeing Cruise to Portland Head Light Review
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Portland: Best of Maine Lighthouse Scenic Cruise
Travelers visiting Portland, Maine can embark on the Best of Maine Lighthouse Scenic Cruise, a captivating 105-minute tour that showcases the region’s iconic coastal landmarks.
Priced at SEK 539 per person, the cruise offers spectacular views of four lighthouses, including the famous Portland Head Light. Guests can also explore civil war-era forts and the bustling Portland Harbor, while keeping an eye out for seals and other marine life.
With indoor and outdoor seating, a beverage and snack bar, and wheelchair accessibility, the cruise caters to all.
Boasting an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 471 reviews, this tour provides an informative and entertaining experience for visitors to the coastal town.
Read our full review: Portland: Best of Maine Lighthouse Scenic Cruise Review
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Portland: Sunset Lighthouse Cruise in Casco Bay With Drinks
As the sun begins to sink below the horizon, visitors can embark on the captivating Portland: Sunset Lighthouse Cruise in Casco Bay with Drinks.
This 1.5-hour tour departs from the Portland Beer Hub and ends at Custom House Wharf. Guests will cruise through Casco Bay, taking in iconic Maine lighthouses, historic forts, and fishing piers.
Onboard, they’ll learn about the local islands, wildlife, and history, while enjoying a complimentary craft beer or hard seltzer.
Due to limited capacity, the tour is currently unavailable for booking. However, guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Portland: Sunset Lighthouse Cruise in Casco Bay With Drinks Review
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Portland: Maine Lighthouses Sightseeing Cruise With Drinks
Visitors can embark on the captivating Portland: Maine Lighthouses Sightseeing Cruise With Drinks, a 105-minute tour that departs from the Portland Beer Hub and ends at Custom House Wharf.
This highly-rated cruise (4.8 out of 5 from 69 reviews) offers breathtaking views of iconic Maine lighthouses while sipping on drinks.
The cruise provides the opportunity to see several historic lighthouses, including Portland Head Light, which is the most photographed lighthouse in Maine.
With a price of $49 per person, this cruise is an affordable and enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty of the Casco Bay region.
Read our full review: Portland: Maine Lighthouses Sightseeing Cruise With Drinks Review
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Portland: Schooner Tall Ship Cruise on Casco Bay
Hop aboard the magnificent Schooner Tall Ship for a captivating 2-hour cruise around Casco Bay.
This highly-rated experience offers stunning views of Portland’s historic lighthouses, rugged coastline, and the serene waters of the bay.
Sit back and relax as the skilled crew navigates the ship, providing informative commentary about the area’s rich maritime history.
With a duration of 2 hours and a price tag of $52 per person, this cruise is an excellent way to learn about Portland’s nautical heritage.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Schooner Tall Ship cruise promises an unforgettable adventure on the waves.
Read our full review: Portland: Schooner Tall Ship Cruise on Casco Bay Review
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Portland: Private Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat
A private charter on a vintage lobster boat offers an exclusive opportunity to explore Maine’s Casco Bay. Priced from $307.50 per person, the 2-hour tour accommodates up to 6 guests and provides up-close views of iconic lighthouses, historic stone forts, and diverse wildlife.
The tour departs from the Portland Beer Hub, with passengers meeting 20 minutes prior at the dock. An experienced captain and charter host guide the journey, and an optional open bar with local beers, seltzers, and wine is available for purchase.
With a 5-star rating across 5 reviews, this private charter promises an unforgettable Maine experience.
Read our full review: Portland: Private Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat Review
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Recap
Portland, Maine offers a variety of enjoyable cruises and boat tours for visitors. From sightseeing cruises to lighthouse tours and private charters, there’s something to suit every interest. Travelers can discover the city’s coastal scenery, historic lighthouses, and local wildlife while enjoying the scenic waterways. With so many options, visitors are sure to find the perfect maritime adventure during their time in Portland.