Portland: Casco Bay Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise

Set out on a captivating journey through the picturesque waters of Casco Bay as you experience the Casco Bay Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise. This 1.5-hour excursion aboard the classic picnic boat, Ruth, offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of Maine’s iconic lighthouses up close. With a focus on safety and comfort, this family-friendly cruise promises an unforgettable adventure, inviting you to learn about the rich maritime history and scenic vistas that await. Prepare to be enchanted as you bask in the tranquility of the bay and uncover the hidden gems that make this region truly special.

Good To Know

• The Casco Bay Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise is a 1.5-hour excursion that offers views of four iconic Maine lighthouses, departing from Fore Points Marina.
• The cruise takes place on a classic 39-foot picnic boat, Ruth, with a capacity of 19 guests, providing an intimate and family-friendly experience.
• Passengers can bring their own picnic items, including soda, wine, or beer, to enjoy during the cruise.
• The cruise features sightings of Fort Gorges and lush islands, showcasing the rich maritime history of the Casco Bay region dating back to 1678.
• The cruise has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, with praise for the opportunity to view the lighthouses, though transportation and value for money scores could be improved.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Cruise Overview

Set out on a delightful 1.5-hour excursion along the stunning Casco Bay, where the Portland Lighthouse Cruise awaits. Priced from $60 per person, this captivating tour presents an opportunity to witness four of Maine’s iconic lighthouses.

Depart from Fore Points Marina and glide through the waters aboard the classic 39-foot picnic boat, Ruth, operational since 1935. With a capacity of 19 guests, this family-friendly cruise invites you to bring your own refreshments and soak in the breathtaking sights.

Enjoy the rich history of the region, dating back to 1678, as you count the numerous islands dotting the bay. Don’t miss out – this tour is likely to sell out, so reserve your spot now.

Itinerary and Highlights

The cruise departs from Fore Points Marina, where guests board the classic 39-foot picnic boat, Ruth, to embark on a captivating 1.5-hour journey through the waters of Casco Bay.

Gliding past iconic landmarks, the cruise offers breathtaking views of four of Maine’s famous lighthouses, including the historic Portland Head Light and the distinctive Spring Point Ledge Light.

Cruisers will also catch glimpses of the 160-year-old Fort Gorges and the many lush islands that dot the bay, some with histories dating back to 1678.

This immersive experience allows visitors to soak in the natural beauty and maritime heritage of the region.

Experience and Amenities

Guests aboard the classic 39-foot picnic boat, Ruth, can’t help but feel a sense of adventure as they glide through the waters of Casco Bay.

Operational since 1935, this historic vessel offers a unique and intimate experience, with a maximum capacity of 19 passengers. Guests are encouraged to bring along their favorite picnic items, including soda, wine, or beer, to enjoy as they take in the stunning views of Maine’s famous lighthouses.

Life jackets are provided for adults and children, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.

Whether it’s a family outing or a special occasion, the Casco Bay Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise promises an unforgettable experience.

Meeting and Check-in Information

Arriving 30 minutes prior to departure ensures a smooth check-in process at the blue picnic tables across the train tracks from the Marina shed and entry.

Parking is available on Commercial/Thames Street, a short walk from the marina. The captain meets guests at the designated check-in location, ready to guide them through the boarding process and share insights about the journey ahead.

• Convenient parking nearby
• Designated check-in area with friendly staff
• Smooth boarding and departure for a seamless start to the adventure

This efficient and well-organized meeting and check-in process sets the stage for a delightful Casco Bay Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise.

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Customer Feedback

While the meeting and check-in process set the stage for a seamless start, guest reviews paint a mixed picture of the overall Casco Bay Lighthouse Cruise experience.

With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, the tour earns solid praise. Yet, transportation and value for money scores lag behind, reflecting some guests’ dissatisfaction with the boat’s size and comfort.

Noise levels and seating arrangements also drew complaints, prompting calls for refunds in select cases.

Despite these issues, the opportunity to view four of Maine’s iconic lighthouses and explore Casco Bay’s islands captivates many.

The classic picnic-style boat and family-friendly atmosphere continue to draw visitors seeking an immersive nautical adventure.

Cruise Duration and Pricing

The Casco Bay Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise whisks adventurous guests away for an immersive 1.5-hour journey, priced affordably from $60 per person.

With the cruise likely to sell out, there’s a sense of excitement in the air. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or reserve now and pay later.

The value-packed experience transports visitors through the scenic waterways, showcasing four of Maine’s iconic lighthouses.

Guests can expect to:

• View stunning architectural marvels from the vessel
• Discover the rich history of Casco Bay, dating back to 1678
• Enjoy the flexibility to bring their own picnic and refreshments

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Guests can reserve their spot on the Casco Bay Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise with ease, taking advantage of the flexible cancellation policy.

With a convenient "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, they can secure their seats without an immediate financial commitment.

And should plans change, the cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a full refund.

This hassle-free booking process allows adventurers to focus on the excitement of the journey ahead, knowing they can adjust their plans without penalty.

Whether last-minute or well-planned, the Casco Bay cruise makes it simple to explore Portland’s iconic lighthouses at one’s leisure.

Vessel and Capacity Details

Aboard the Ruth, a classic 39-foot picnic-style boat operational since 1935, guests embark on a delightful cruise through Casco Bay. This family-friendly vessel accommodates up to 19 passengers, promising an intimate and immersive experience.

The boat’s timeless charm and ample deck space allow guests to:

• Soak in the breathtaking coastal scenery
• Spot iconic lighthouses that dot the horizon
• Revel in the salty sea breeze and gentle waves

With life jackets provided for all ages, the Ruth offers a safe and comfortable journey, inviting guests to sit back, relax, and savor the maritime wonders of Portland’s renowned Casco Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Restrooms Available on the Cruise?

The cruise offers no restrooms on board, so guests should plan accordingly. However, the relaxed, leisurely atmosphere allows passengers to enjoy the scenic coastal views and historic lighthouses without distraction.

How Often Does the Cruise Depart?

The cruise departs at a fixed schedule, typically once or twice a day, offering passengers the chance to explore the serene Casco Bay and its historic lighthouses in an immersive and captivating adventure.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, guests can bring their own picnic lunch, favorite soda, wine, or beer to enjoy during the classic boat cruise. The relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere encourages visitors to make the most of the coastal adventure.

Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

The cruise offers limited wheelchair accessibility, with the classic boat design presenting some challenges. Passengers should inquire about specific accommodations when booking to ensure the experience meets their needs.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?

Discounts and packages aren’t mentioned, but you can save by reserving now and paying later. With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, you’ve got flexibility to secure your spot without risk.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating maritime adventure through the serene waters of Casco Bay, where iconic lighthouses stand as sentinels guiding the way. This intimate cruise aboard the classic Ruth offers an unforgettable escape, immersing you in Maine’s breathtaking coastal splendor. Savor the journey, capture the memories, and discover the enchanting beauty that this lighthouse-dotted excursion has to offer.

You can check if your dates are available here: