Adventure Collective
Seal Watching Adventure in Casco Bay, Portland ME - Portland

Seal Watching Adventure in Casco Bay, Portland ME

Portlandeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels, including children and seniors; minimal walking required

Overview

Cruise Casco Bay aboard the EXPLORER to see seals, sea birds, historic forts, and lighthouses. Perfect for families seeking close encounters with Maine’s coastal wildlife.

Portland, Maine

Seal Watch

Aboard "EXPLORER" | $31 per passenger | Approximately 45 mins.

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Adventure Photos

Seal Watch photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable seal watching adventure at Halfway Rock in Casco Bay. Cruise aboard the open-air "EXPLORER" through Portland's scenic waterfront, spotting seals and sea birds while passing historic forts and lighthouses. This family-friendly trip promises a unique blend of wildlife and stunning coastal views.

Seal watch at Halfway Rock, a seal rookery in Casco Bay. We’ll head out through Portland’s working waterfront aboard "EXPLORER", our open-to-air Carolina Skiff, to look for seals and sea birds, passing forts and lighthouses along the way. A great trip for families! Trip time: Approx. 45-60 minutes | Cost: $31

Adventure Tips

Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing

Enhance your seal spotting experience by bringing binoculars to see animals from a distance without disturbing them.

Dress in layers for changing weather

Coastal weather can shift quickly; windproof and warm layers keep you comfortable on the open-air boat.

Arrive early for best boarding position

Get to the dock before departure to secure a prime spot on the vessel’s open deck for unobstructed views.

Follow crew instructions for safety

Listen closely to safety briefings and guidelines to ensure a smooth, safe journey around the rocky islands.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Harbor seals
  • Piping plovers

History

The lighthouses around Casco Bay date back to the early 19th century and protect one of the most important shipping channels in New England.

Conservation

Operators adhere to strict wildlife viewing guidelines to minimize disturbance and promote conservation of marine mammals.

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Adventure Hotspots in Portland

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Windbreaker jacket

Essential

Protect against brisk coastal winds typical of springtime cruises.

spring specific

Sunglasses

Essential

Shield your eyes from reflective glare off the water during sunny summer days.

summer specific

Camera with zoom lens

Capture sharp images of distant seals and lighthouses amid autumn light.

fall specific

Warm hat and gloves

Essential

Stay warm during colder months when chill from the water intensifies.

winter specific