Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour welcomes children aged 6 and older with life jackets available for kids between 50 and 90 pounds.

What is the meeting location for the tour?

Guests meet at the ticket booth below Federal Jack’s Restaurant, ground level on the river side of 8 Western Avenue in Kennebunkport.

Are there restroom facilities on the boat?

No, restroom facilities are not available onboard, so please plan accordingly before departure.

Can I bring food or drinks on the boat?

Large coolers and bags are not allowed; complimentary water and ice are provided during the tour.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Tours may be canceled due to unsafe sea or weather conditions with full refunds or rescheduling options offered.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility information is not specified; please contact New England EcoAdventures directly for accommodation inquiries.

Explore Maine’s Coastal Heritage with the Tour of Goat Island Light

Stretching along Maine's rocky southern coast, Kennebunk offers a blend of marine history and rugged natural beauty that defines New England’s maritime legacy. The Tour of Goat Island Light, operated by New England EcoAdventures in partnership with the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust, delivers an intimate and immersive two-hour boat journey to one of the region's iconic landmarks: Goat Island Lighthouse. This experience captures the essence of coastal Maine and its working waterfront environment, making it a standout adventure for travelers seeking history, wildlife, and spectacular ocean vistas. Departing from the heart of Kennebunkport at 8 Western Avenue, the tour glides past renowned points including Walker’s Point—the summer estate of the Bush family—and into the tranquil waters of Cape Porpoise Harbor. This working harbor boasts a colorful mix of fishing boats and elegant coastal homes, where visitors can witness the ongoing maritime culture that has sustained the region for centuries. The highlight awaits on Goat Island, accessible only by boat, which is home to the historic Goat Island Lighthouse. Erected in the mid-19th century, the lighthouse stands sentinel amidst classic New England granite outcrops and offers a rare glimpse into coastal navigation history. Guests receive a guided, narrated tour around the lighthouse grounds, enriched by environmental insights and stories that connect the past with present-day conservation efforts. The tour’s small boat features custom POD seating and 360-degree views, allowing every traveler ample opportunity to frame the rugged shoreline, watch nesting seabirds, or capture sunlight glittering off tidal pools. After the lighthouse visit, the boat drifts to nearby Bumpkin Island, a favored spot for playful harbor seals that add a delightful wildlife encounter to the trip. Returning along Kennebunk Beach, the voyage wraps up with stunning views of beaches where the Atlantic meets coastal Maine’s unique geology—glacial erratics and smooth granite slabs shape this dramatic shore. The seamless mix of natural beauty, educational narration, and close animal encounters makes this tour a truly unique offering in the area. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or looking for a peaceful escape from tourist crowds, this tour offers an authentic Maine coastal experience. New England EcoAdventures’ commitment to comfort and sustainability enhances the trip, emphasizing low-impact marine tourism and protecting local ecosystems. This tour is perfect for families aged six and above seeking an easy to moderate activity that balances outdoor exploration with cultural enrichment in the charming coastal town of Kennebunkport. If you’re planning a Maine getaway, this lighthouse tour captures the spirit of the coast’s past and present with thoughtful, expert-led adventure.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels including families with children aged 6 and up; involves gentle boat seating and short walking on uneven surfaces.

Wildlife

Harbor seals basking on nearby islands
Ospreys soaring along the coastline

History

Goat Island Lighthouse was constructed in 1835 and played a critical role guiding ships safely into the harbors of southern Maine.

Conservation

New England EcoAdventures emphasizes low-impact boating and partners with local trusts to preserve marine habitats and local wildlife populations.

New England Eco Adventures is a Portland, Maine–based outdoor tour operator specializing in small-group marine experiences and paddle sports along southern Maine. The company offers guided and self-guided options including one-, two-, three-, and four-hour kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals in Kennebunkport, sunset boat tours in Casco Bay, whale watching excursions from Portland, and specialty trips such as a tour to Goat Island Light, a Boon Island Light sunset seal watch, and a visit to the Mere Point oyster farm. Trips are presented with clear trip lengths and guest limits; several boat experiences run on a 14-passenger rigid inflatable boat (RIB), while kayak and SUP rentals suit families and small groups. The Adventure Whale Watch and Adventure Whale Watch – Portland trips run approximately three to four hours and report high whale-sighting frequency. The Goat Island Light tour provides two-hour access to island views and seal sightings, and the Boon Island Light sunset seal watch is offered as a 1.5-hour narrated outing. New England Eco Adventures highlights local knowledge, safety briefings, and educational narration from captains and naturalists. Equipment for rentals and tours is maintained for reliability, and oyster farm trips include a shucking demonstration and six oyster samples for guests. With departures from Portland Harbor and operations along Casco Bay, Kennebunk River, and the Gulf of Maine, New England Eco Adventures focuses on responsible, informative, and family-friendly coastal adventures. Booking information, schedules, equipment details, safety policies, and group options are listed on the company's website and confirmed at reservation time.

Base locationKennebunk, Maine

Tours offered16+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace