Boat Tours, Harbor Cruises & Island Experiences
Experience the best boat tours in Portland, Maine with on-the-water experiences that showcase Casco Bay’s islands, lighthouses, and working harbor. From scenic cruises to unique island adventures, these tours offer a perspective of Portland you simply can’t get on land.
Choose from a variety of experiences including a harbor cruise featuring iconic lighthouse views, a relaxing sunset cruise, an oyster and prosecco tasting on the water, or a one-of-a-kind trip to House Island to explore Fort Scammel—an exclusive historic site not typically open to the public.
Whether you’re looking for sightseeing, relaxation, or something truly unique, these boat tours are some of the best things to do in Portland, Maine.
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
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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.
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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.
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Tour duration 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.
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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.
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Our only tour in which we allow pets is our Portland History Walking Tour. Service animals are allowed on our other tours.
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Yes! We can arrange private tours tailored to your group’s interests. Contact us directly for details via our Private Groups Booking Page.
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Absolutely! We provide custom tours for corporate outings, team-building events, and large groups.
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Yes, we love helping celebrate special occasions with personalized tours. Contact us to discuss your ideas.
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