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Boat Tours

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.

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

Portland Beer Hub

CHECK IN LOCATION

Portland Beer Hub
320 Fore St, Portland, ME 0410

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