Adventure Collective
null - Portland

Port-City Lights Cruise

Portlandeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; no physical exertion required beyond boarding and disembarking.

Overview

Discover Portland’s stunning waterfront from a private boat tour focused on city lights and scenic views. Perfect for a romantic evening or special celebration, this cruise offers an unforgettable experience of Maine’s coast. Keep reading to learn more about this exclusive Portland adventure!

Boat Tour
Portland, Maine

Port-City Lights Cruise

For all ages! • 60 Minutes • Narrated Sightseeing

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About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 60-minute scenic cruise through Casco Bay, where you'll witness iconic lighthouses, historic forts, and vibrant wildlife. Get up close to Portland Headlight, Maine's oldest lighthouse, while enjoying the comfort of enclosed cabins and covered decks. This unforgettable journey promises stunning views and rich maritime history.

Experience the iconic lighthouses, forts, lobster boats and wildlife!

Duration

  • 60 minutes
  • Please arrive 30 minutes prior to departure

Rates

Adult: (Ages 13+) : $30 Child: (Ages 3-12) : $20 Infant: (Ages 0-2) : FREE Dogs: (Bring your well-behaved, leashed dog!) : $8

About

Enjoy this narrated 60-minute scenic cruise through busy Casco Bay and its innermost islands to see lighthouses, forts, lobster boats, seals, and seabirds. As many as four lighthouses can be seen including a close up view of Portland Headlight, Maine’s oldest and most photographed lighthouse.

More info

Our boats have fully enclosed cabins, and open but covered upper decks, so a little light rain doesn’t stop us as long as there is some visibility. Factors for cancellation include strong winds, heavy fog, downpours or anything making for unsafe conditions.

What to bring

You never know exactly what kind of weather you will get in Maine, but it’s safe to assume it will be cooler out on the water and bringing a light or heavy jacket is a good idea. We recommend sneakers as opposed to open-toed shoes for better stability.

Are Tours Handicap Accessible?

Canes and walkers are fine on either tour, though a foldable walker may be needed to fit on the trolley. There are three steps onto the trolley and there is a ramp that leads down to the boat that can vary in steepness, but our friendly, courteous drivers and deckhands are more than happy to lend a hand. Wheelchairs are not able to fit on the trolleys and MOST times manual wheelchairs are fine on the boats, but typically have to be lifted on, so weight restrictions can apply.

Are Tours Dog Friendly?

Our Tours are dog friendly! Provided your dog is friendly, well-behaved, and leashed they are welcome on our tours. Dogs cannot take up a seat of a paying passenger, so dogs must be in a lap or on the floor/deck near your feet.

Adventure Tips

Wear Layers and Bring a Blanket

Evenings can get chilly on the water, so dress warmly and bring a blanket for added comfort during the cruise.

Arrive Early to Secure Seating

Private cruises are limited, so arriving at least 15 minutes early ensures a smooth check-in and preferred spot on the boat.

Bring Your Camera or Smartphone

Capture stunning sunset and cityscape photos from the boat — stable spots near the railings are ideal for photography.

Check Weather Conditions Before Booking

Weather can vary, so review the forecast and be prepared for possible rain or wind during your cruise.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Seagulls
  • Harbor seals

History

Portland’s harbor has been a vital center for maritime commerce since the 18th century, shaping the city’s development.

Conservation

Portland Discovery Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including responsible wildlife viewing and minimal impact boat operations to preserve the harbor’s beauty.

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Adventure Hotspots in Portland

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm clothing and layers

Essential

Important to stay comfortable as temperatures can drop in the evenings on the water.

Camera or smartphone

Capture picturesque views of Portland’s harbor and city skyline.

Windproof jacket

Provides additional warmth and protection from sea breezes during cooler months.

spring|fall|winter specific

Binoculars

Great for wildlife spotting and viewing distant landmarks.