Top Portland On the Water

Experience the scenic coastline of Casco Bay in Portland, aboard a traditional Maine windjammer. Sail past lighthouses, rocky islands, and wildlife while enjoying the peaceful pace of a classic schooner cruise. Bring your own picnic and drinks to enjoy on board as you take in the views. Suitable for all ages, this relaxing sailing experience offers an authentic way to discover the beauty of the coast.

Board your boat, the Elizabeth Grace, near the Portland ferry terminal and cruise around Portland Harbor at sunset, when Casco Bay and the coast of southern Maine are the most romantic. See lighthouses, historic forts, and stray groups of swimming seals and enjoy local craft beer from the boat. As the sun sets, turn toward Portland to see the town light up before returning to harbor.

Few things are more beautiful than a majestic sunset. However to see it from the waters of Portland's magnificent Casco Bay is a truly remarkable experience. Whether a first-time kayaker or experienced hand, this 2-hour tour offers phenomenal vistas of Portland harbor and cityscsape. Your only neighbors are your guide, your small group and the wildlife as you leisurely paddle back to shore.

Half maritime adventure, half sightseeing exploration, the best way to catch Portland’s history is from the water. Gliding along Diamond Pass, you’ll catch views of Civil War–era forts, historic lighthouses, and likely some lobster boats bobbing in the breeze. Perfect for all ages, you’ll get to know the city and its maritime heritage, all while taking in its most scenic side.

See a new vantage on Portland and the Maine coast—and enjoy a relaxing excursion out on the water—on this sailing tour. Make your own way to the Maine State Pier, and hop aboard a traditional, Maine-built windjammer. Once you set sail, soak up the sea breezes, look out for seals, and even take a turn at hoisting the sails or behind the ship’s wheel.

Paddle among the magnificent islands of Casco Bay during this 4-hour guided sea kayaking tour in Portland. Island-hop by boat through the scenic landscape of this coastal area, admiring 19th-century forts and lighthouses along the way. As you travel you’ll scout for marine life like seals and seabirds and take a break on a local beach for snacks and exploring.

Charter a vintage lobster boat, dubbed MONHEGAN, and set sail with this two-hour tour into Casco Bay. You'll get great views of the Maine coastline, passing by four lighthouses as you go. This is a great opportunity to take photos of the coastline and waters, while learning about local nautical history from a knowledgeable captain.

Discover the beauty of Northwest Casco Bay on a 3-hour morning kayaking tour. No experience is necessary, as you get a crash course before the tour begins and your guide is on hand at all times. Double kayaks are available, if you prefer to paddle tandem. See Brunswick and its native wildlife from a unique vantage point. Then enjoy complimentary snacks and a brief land excursion, before your return.

What better way to see the delights than in the style of a private charter for you and five friends or family members? Experience the beauty and serenity of the rugged coastline as you gaze upon seabirds, sea houses, and islands. Guests are encouraged to help raise the sails with a deckhand and steer the ship for themselves. Your charter is your time to relax, celebrate, entertain, and sail, so you get to set the pace and atmosphere. Beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages are permitted on board.

This two-hour sunset private sail is the perfect way to experience Maine's sunset on the coast - complete with lighthouses, seals, and seabirds. Sail aboard Heart's Desire, a 101 year old schooner, designed by famed yacht designer, John Alden. Heart's Desire measures 53' feet and features some of John Alden's trademark design elements including a long bowsprit and dramatic, raked transom. Built in 1925 by T.S. Soule in South Freeport, Maine, Heart's Desire has been used mainly for chartering along the Eastern seaboard in New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Maine.

Spend three hours kayaking through Casco Bay with this small-group tour led by a professional guide. You'll launch from Mere Point in Brunswick and paddle over to a couple of different islands, with the opportunity to see all sorts of marine birds, and maybe even a seal or two, along the way.

Enjoy a relaxing morning paddleboarding along Portland's Casco Bay. After a brief instruction, set out for a stand-up tour of the area—searching out native wildlife such as great blue herons and osprey as you slowly explore the waters. Learn about the area's fascinating history, from ways Native Americans used the land to how lobsters play a big part in the local economy. This leisurely and informative 2-hour tour includes an on-shore snack break before making your way back to Mere Point.

Take in the famous autumn foliage of New England during a private 2.5-hour sightseeing cruise from Portland. With room for six people, it's an ideal intimate experience for couples, friends, or families. It’s also a great opportunity to photograph the leaves and wildlife from a unique perspective. Learn about the area from your private guide as you cruise at a gentle pace.

There are a lot of ways to get out on the water in Maine, but we make every charter feel personal, relaxed, and genuinely memorable. We’re a small, family-run sailing charter, and Sasa is a thoughtfully restored and beautifully outfitted yacht designed to feel warm, welcoming, and comfortable from the moment you step aboard. A half-day sail is the easiest way to get out on the water and see the Maine coast from a completely different perspective. This small group Maine sailing charter is perfect if you want a relaxed few hours to cruise, take in the views, brush up and your sail trim, or just relax and maybe sneak in a swim on a warm day.

This experience combines three things you rarely get in one outing: a small-group boat tour, yoga on a Casco Bay island, and a celebratory drink on the water. Choose a morning experience with mimosas and bakery favorites or an afternoon flow followed by a guided four-wine tasting and savory bites. With only a handful of guests, the experience feels personal, relaxed, and completely different from a traditional boat tour or yoga class.

This two-hour afternoon private cruise is the perfect way to experience Maine's coast, your special event, or a family get-together that will never be forgotten. Ride aboard Heart's Desire: designed by famed yacht designer - John Alden, measures 53' feet and features some of his trademark design elements including a long bowsprit and dramatic, raked transom. Built in 1925 by T.S. Soule in South Freeport, Maine, Heart's Desire has been used mainly for chartering along the Eastern seaboard in New York, New Jersey, and most recently Massachusetts.

A half-day sailing charter offers a unique and personalized way to explore the stunning Maine coast. Departing from downtown Portland, this private experience aboard Sasa, a family-run small business charter sailboat, with a coast-guard certified captain, allows you to cruise through Casco Bay, enjoying views of iconic landmarks like Portland Head Light. With options to swim in secluded spots or simply relax, every charter is tailored to your group's preferences. Enjoy light refreshments and the chance to take the helm or trim the sails, making for an unforgettable day on the water.

Looking for a romantic way to watch the sunset while in Maine? How about chartering a vintage lobster boat and heading out to Casco Bay, where you'll take in great views of the sea and coastline. Your captain and guide will be on board to point out lighthouses, historic forts, and natural features. A round of drinks is included to toast the sunset with, but more beverages are available to purchase onboard.

Crowded public cruises make it harder for groups to enjoy Casco Bay together. From Portland's Old Port, charter a classic wooden boat for up to 16 guests, with the full boat to yourselves, passing Portland Head Light, historic forts, and other coastal landmarks while watching for harbor seals and seabirds. Bring your own food, use the onboard glassware and utensils, and purchase beer or wine onboard for a relaxed sightseeing cruise shaped around your group.