Midcoast Expedition

This trip launches on the Kennebec River northeast of Portland near Bath, Maine, a town known for its long history of shipbuilding and home to both the Maine Maritime Museum and Bath Iron Works. From there you will paddle down the coast, either weaving your way through a number of narrow channels guarded by towering granite, or else along the open ocean, watching the waves crash against the basalt bedrock. You’re likely to explore the waters of Hockmock Bay, the Sassanoa River, Knubble Bay and the Sheepscot River. After two nights of camping on treelined islands you’ll paddle into one of the region’s many scenic harbors, such as Wiscasset or Boothbay Harbor, where our van will be waiting to drive the group back to Portland.

Your guide will customize the route to match the interests and experience level of the group. You should expect to paddle at a moderate pace for several hours each day, with lots of island breaks. Your guide will be happy to offer paddling instruction throughout the trip.

The group meets at 8:00 AM at Portland Paddle on the first day and will return by 4:30 PM two days later. Portland Paddle will transport the group roughly 60-90 minutes north to the launch site.

• Visiting several islands on the Maine Island Trail in the Midcoast Rivers region and camping alongside the ocean
• Observing the abundant wildlife of this massive estuary, including seals and seabirds
• Paddling along the wave-battered shores of Reid State Park, which has one of the most beautiful sand beaches in the state
• Visiting Knubble Bay, where you can hike the trails of Appalachian Mountain Club’s Beal Island, and feel the swift currents of the Hell Gates

• Well-rounded, delicious meals and snacks – two of each breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Kayaks and other paddling gear
• Two dry bags for personal gear are included, additional dry bags are available for rent 
• Licensed Maine guide
• Tent(s)

Please Note:

Tents are included in the cost of this trip, but we ask participants to either bring their own sleeping bags and sleeping pads or rent them from us for a small additional fee. Portland Paddle will provide kayaking gear, dry bags, drinking water, other essential camping gear and all meals. Cold water paddling gear, such as wetsuits, neoprene booties, and dry suits, are available to rent. We are happy to store your belongings (luggage, bikes, etc.) during your trip.

• Prior sea kayaking experience
• Ability to paddle at a moderate pace for several hours in one day (with plenty of island breaks)
• Experience with wet exits (having done one at least once)
• Comfort with tent camping

If you would prefer to book a private trip that is just for your group we would be happy to make that happen. A private trip allows your guide to customize the itinerary to fit the interests and experience levels of those in your group. It’s also  a good option if the dates of our public trips listed on the calendar above don’t work for your group.

To get more information and request a private trip please submit the form on this page.