Quick Details
Queer Paddling Night
These bi-weekly kayak tours offer a chance for queer folks living in Maine to experience paddling on Casco Bay on a 1.5-hour paddle led by a licensed sea kayak guide.Â
Our Queer Paddling Night starts with some introductions and a brief paddling lesson. Then the group heads onto Casco Bay for a quick paddle during the hour before sunset. There’s no set route for the tour, but the guide usually leads the group on a slow-paced paddle along the edge of Portland Harbor and near the inner islands of Casco Bay. If skies are clear, everyone will get a panoramic view of the sun setting over the city during the paddle back to the East End Beach.
We typically use tandem (two-person) sea kayaks for most people on our Queer Paddling Nights, so you may be paired with somebody else in the group. We find that tandems are best for most people because they are more stable and spacious. Plus, if you get tired, your partner can pick up the slack!
This two-hour tour is designed for paddlers of all experience levels — including first-time kayakers.
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- A sea kayak.
- Paddling gear (paddle, lifejacket, sprayskirt).
- A small dry bag for your belongings.
- Brief instruction on the basics of sea kayaking.
- Licensed Maine Sea Kayak Guide.
- Fun!
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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 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 or sneakers are good options. During a trip with Portland Paddle you may encounter a variety of ground surfaces, including rocks, mud, and sand, so be prepared!
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We’re offering sliding scale pricing for these events to make them accessible to as many Queer folks as possible. Choose whichever rate works for your situation when booking your spot. If you’re able to pay the standard or supporter rate that will help us ensure that these events continue. If cost is still a barrier, email Gabby at [email protected]
Standard Rate – Tailored for most members, offering a solid value for those planning to paddle regularly.
$20Community Rate – A more affordable option for those facing budget constraints.
$10Supporter Rate –Â For those able to contribute more, this tier supports members at the Community Price level while still offering value.
$ 30
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Please reserve your spot in this tour by clicking on the “Book Now” button on this page. This will help us ensure that we have the correct number of kayaks and guides available for the group.