Quick Details
Adult
$ 120
Youth
Ages 15+ for this tour
$ 120
Private Tour , 1 - 4 people
Price is per trip
$ 440
Private Tour , 5+ people
Price is per person
$ 120
Explore the wilder reaches of Casco Bay with a full-day island-hopping adventure
Our Full Day Kayak Tour is an opportunity to island-hop through the rugged islands of Casco Bay and sea kayak to some of the most historically fascinating and scenic landmarks in the Portland region.
On this trip we visit several of Casco Bay’s islands and explore stunningly beautiful spots that our shorter tours typically don’t reach. Along the way we often spot wildlife like seals, osprey and eiders, and we enjoy close-up views of lighthouses and forts (which may include Spring Point Light, Fort Preble, Portland Head Light, Fort Scammel, Ram Island Light, Bug Light or Fort Gorges).
You’ll have the chance to hone your paddling skills during this trip with the help of your expert guide, and you’ll also learn about the natural history and culture of Maine’s islands. Through it all, you’ll take in the many sides of Casco Bay, including the bustling working waterfront of Portland harbor, the cliff-lined outer islands exposed to the open ocean, and the more protected coves lined with beaches.
Unlike our other tours, we limit this trip to 6 or fewer people and require participants to have some previous sea kayaking experience. While the group will take many breaks and stops along the way, the trip does involve a very full and active day. (We suggest our shorter trips for first-time kayakers or anyone who has difficulty with prolonged physical activity).
The cost of this trip includes a well-rounded picnic lunch, with vegetarian and gluten-free options.
More Info
-
- Views of many of Maine’s most fascinating & picturesque forts and lighthouses
- Lunch on an island beach in Casco Bay
- Possible sightings of seals, eider ducks, guillemots, osprey, eagles and all sorts of seabird
- Island-hopping from the working waterfront of Portland harbor to the wild, open-ocean waters of Casco Bay’s outer islands.
-
- Choice between a solo sea kayak and a double (two-person) sea kayak.
- A well-rounded picnic lunch on an island, plus snacks.
- An expert sea kayak guide who will create an custom itinerary that fits with the group’s background and interests, as well as with the conditions.
- Essential paddling gear: life jackets, paddles, dry bags, spray skirts, etc.
-
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!