Quick Details
Adult
Ages 17+
$ 75
Child
Ages 10-16
$ 70
Private Tour , 1 - 4 people
Price is per trip
$ 335
Private Tour , 5+ people
Price is per person
$ 75
Kayak across Casco Bay to a fascinating island fortress
A classic Portland, Maine ocean adventure!
This guided sea kayaking tour involves paddling on the waters of Casco Bay to Fort Gorges, an abandoned island fortress from the mid-1800s that offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands. After a scenic crossing from the shoreline of Portland harbor, you’ll land on the beach outside the fort and explore the historic structure while your guide tells you about its fascinating history and uncertain future. This tour is a terrific way to experience the thrill of sea kayaking on the rugged coast of Maine, and to visit a unique island with a legendary historic site.
Expect roughly two hours of slow to moderate paddling suitable for novice paddlers, plus 30-45 minutes to explore the fort by foot. Throughout the tour you’ll find opportunities to view marine wildlife like seabirds and seals and you’ll encounter lots of beautiful coastal scenery.
Please keep in mind that Fort Gorges is a historical structure that is not currently maintained, so there are no bathroom facilities and there are unlit areas that require caution when exploring.
More Info
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- Views of the major landmarks of southern Casco Bay, including lighthouses, forts and the working waterfront of Portland harbor.
- A visit to historic Fort Gorges, where you’ll spend 30-45 minutes exploring the site, which is only accessible by small boat
- Possible sightings of seals, eider ducks, guillemots, osprey, eagles and all sorts of seabirds
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- Double (two-person) sea kayaks that are stable, swift and perfect for beginners. (Solo kayaks may be available upon request, based upon guide discretion).
- A brief lesson on the basics of sea kayaking taught by expert licensed Maine Sea Kayak Guide
- Basic sea kayaking gear (PFD, paddle, dry bag etc)
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Clothing: It’s often cooler on the water than on land, so bring a warm layer even if it is a warm day. Sometimes we get slightly wet from seaspray or from water dripping off the paddles. Cotton will not keep you warm if it gets wet, so it’s best to leave the blue jeans and t-shirts at home and instead wear fleece, nylon, wool or other non-cotton materials. Long sleeves are also the best protection against sunburn, so a light, long sleeved shirt is often best for sun protection.
Footwear: You may need to briefly step in shallow water while getting in and out of your kayak, so you should wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. We recommend close-toed shoes to protect from stubbed toes. Watershoes and sneakers are good options.