Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Skip to footer

Our Story

Our Story

Explore More.
Experience the Best of Portland, Maine.

Welcome to Portland Explorer, your premier tour company offering the best land and sea experiences in Portland, Maine. Whether you’re cruising Casco Bay’s iconic lighthouses, uncovering the city’s rich history, or exploring Maine’s renowned craft beer and culinary scene, our expert-led tours offer something for every kind of explorer.

  • Owner and guide, Eric, Sitting on the Thomas Block, behind Custom House Wharf, Old Port Portland – 1987

Person sitting at a picnic table near a lighthouse and ocean, surrounded by greenery.

The Portland Explorer Story

Portland Explorer was formed from the merger of three of Portland’s top tour operators:

  • Maine Brews Cruise – Established in 2012 as The Maine Brew Bus, it is the original craft beer tour company in Maine, connecting visitors with the best breweries, distilleries, wineries, and cideries.
  • SeaPortland – A top-rated boat tour company that began by bringing visitors and locals out to Fort Scammel, a 200-year-old fort only accessed by our company.
  • Portland Explorer – Started in 2018 and quickly became known for its intimate lighthouse and city tours.

By merging these three established companies under the Portland Explorer name, we’ve created a one-stop destination for the best sightseeing, history, and beverage tours in Portland, Maine.

The Portland Explorer Team:
Experts in Land & Sea Adventures

Our team brings together decades of expertise in tourism, hospitality, and event planning. With deep local connections and a passion for sharing the best of Maine, we’ve designed tours that are engaging, authentic, and unforgettable.

 

Group of people walking on a cobblestone street near brick buildings, with one person gesturing animatedly.
Three men on a boat with drinks, an American flag, and scenic water view in the background.

Our Signature Tours

  • Lighthouse & Coastal Cruises – Experience Casco Bay’s legendary lighthouses, including Portland Head Light, Bug Light, and Spring Point Ledge Light, while learning about Maine’s maritime history.
  • History & Sightseeing Tours – Walk or ride through Portland’s Old Port and beyond, discovering the city’s past, historic landmarks, and hidden gems.
  • Brewery & Beverage Tours – Explore Maine’s thriving craft beverage scene, with guided tastings at local breweries, cider houses, and distilleries.
  • Private Charters & Custom Experiences – Book a private tour by boat or land, whether it’s a sunset cruise, a food and drink adventure, or a custom itinerary built just for you.

Why Choose Portland Explorer?

Red location pin icon on a white background.

Locally Owned
& Operated

Our expert team knows Portland, Maine, inside and out.

Illustration of a boat with a red flag on blue water.

Exclusive Access

Partnerships with Maine’s best breweries, restaurants, and attractions.

Icon of three simple figures, representing a group of people.

Small-Group & Private Experiences

Personalized, high-quality, and engaging tours.

Icon of black binoculars with blue lenses.

A One-Stop
Tour Company

Offering the best lighthouse, history, sightseeing, and craft beverage tours all in one place.

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