Sunset Private Boat Tour of Portland & Casco Bay — 2-Hour Cruise to Portland Head Light
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; must be able to step aboard a small vessel and move on a wet deck.
Overview
A private two-hour cruise that threads Portland Harbor and Casco Bay at the most flattering hour—sunset. Expect close-up views of Portland Head Light, working lobster grounds, and islands only accessible by boat, all guided by a local captain.
Sunset Private Boat Tour of Portland & Casco Bay — 2-Hour Cruise to Portland Head Light
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The salt-slick air tastes faintly of kelp and diesel as the motor settles and the city of Portland slips aft. On a two-hour private charter through Casco Bay, the islands tilt like weathered pages and the lighthouse at Cape Elizabeth cuts a crisp silhouette against a bleeding sky. Waves nudge the hull—playful, insistent—and the boat answers, carving a clean path between lobster pots and anchored sloops.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Layer for wind and spray
Temperatures can drop quickly on the water—bring a windproof shell and a warm mid-layer even on warm days.
Book the sunset slot early
The 6:30 PM cruise fills fast in summer; reserve your private tour in advance for the best light and routes.
Seat choice matters
Claim the bow for unobstructed lighthouse shots and the stern for skyline images; stay seated when transiting lobster pot areas.
Protect against motion sickness
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication before boarding and focus on the horizon; fresh air helps.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals
- Ospreys
History
Portland Head Light, completed in 1791, is Maine’s oldest lighthouse and has guided vessels through Casco Bay for more than two centuries.
Conservation
Casco Bay faces pressures from runoff and marine debris; follow Leave No Trace, avoid disturbing seal haul-outs, and steer clear of lobster gear to reduce impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Portland, Maine
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windproof jacket
Shields you from spray and the cool marine breeze during evening cruises.
Non-slip deck shoes
Provide traction on wet surfaces and help you move safely around the boat.
Binoculars
Bring a compact pair to pick out distant islands, seals, and seabirds.
Motion sickness medication
Take preventive medication before boarding if you’re sensitive to boat motion.