Portland: Schooner Tall Ship Cruise on Casco Bay

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Portland from the water, a schooner tall ship cruise on Casco Bay might just be your thing. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but from the wealth of reviews and info out there, it’s clear this is a lovely way to enjoy Maine’s rugged coastline. Think scenic views, a chance to spot seals and lighthouses, and maybe even get a hand at sailing if you’re feeling adventurous.

What really pulls us in about this experience are how engaging the crew is and the quality of the ship itself — you’re not just bobbing around on any boat, but a vessel recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the cruise runs for just two hours, which might feel a bit short if you’re looking for a full-day adventure. Still, if you want a relaxed, scenic outing with a touch of maritime history, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s perfect for those who love history, beautiful views, and a bit of hands-on sailing without needing to be an expert.

This cruise seems best suited for travelers who appreciate a blend of relaxation, scenic beauty, and learning something about Maine’s maritime past. It’s family-friendly, too — great for kids who want to see seals or learn about lighthouses — but also perfect for adults craving a peaceful escape on the water.

Key Points

• Scenic Portland views and rugged coastline make for a stunning backdrop.
• Learn about Maine’s maritime history through the ship and crew’s detailed commentary.
• Hands-on sailing opportunities like hoisting sails or steering.
• Wildlife spotting includes seals and other marine creatures.
• No food or drinks included, so bring your own snacks, wine, or beer.
• Two-hour duration offers a relaxed but concise experience.
• Crew members are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their passion for sailing and local history.
• Weather can impact the experience — rain can be a factor, but the crew responds well.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Schooner Tall Ship Cruise

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $108 per person, you get a two-hour cruise aboard a beautifully maintained schooner. The vessel is not just a boat but a piece of Maine’s maritime heritage — listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Life jackets are provided for both adults and children, which is reassuring if you’re traveling with little ones or just want peace of mind.

However, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own snacks, wine, or beer if you want to sip while enjoying the views. There’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to the Maine State Pier, where the meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation.

What to Expect During the Cruise

The general flow of the cruise is pretty straightforward: you set sail from Portland, heading out along Casco Bay. From the deck, you’ll see lighthouses perched on rocky outcrops, seals lounging on nearby rocks, and possibly other marine wildlife. The waters are described as peaceful, allowing for a relaxed ride and good photo opportunities.

The crew typically invites guests to participate — hoisting sails, steering the ship, or asking questions about the ship’s history. Several reviews mention how friendly and eager to share the crew is, making the experience more engaging. One reviewer noted that the captain displayed “ample patience,” giving even young children a chance to take the wheel, which can be a real highlight for families.

The Ships and Their Stories

The schooner itself is more than just a vessel — it’s a piece of history. Many of the ships used are recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, and the crew is keen to share stories about Maine’s windjammers. We loved hearing that the guides are very knowledgeable and genuinely passionate, adding depth to the scenic cruise.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wildlife and Scenery

Keep your eyes peeled for seals, which many travelers report seeing lounging on rocks or swimming nearby. The rugged coastline, with its lighthouses and rocky outcrops, provides a postcard-perfect backdrop. The views of Portland from the water are especially enjoyable in the early morning or late afternoon, giving that warm, golden light perfect for photos.

Weather Considerations

One thing to note from reviews is that weather can impact the cruise experience. Rainy days might mean rain gear is advisable, and the overall visibility might be lower. In one review, the crew responded well to the rain, passing out rain parkas and maintaining a cheerful attitude. Expect that if the weather isn’t perfect, your experience will still be enjoyable thanks to the crew’s attitude, but the scenery might be less spectacular.

The Price and Its Value

At $108 per person, this cruise offers a fair price considering the historic ship and the scenic adventure. For around two hours, you get not only beautiful views but also a taste of Maine’s maritime history and a chance to participate hands-on. Many reviewers felt it was worth the cost, especially given the friendly crew and the quality of the vessel.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is a good pick for history buffs, wildlife lovers, and anyone wanting to experience Portland from the water in a relaxed setting. It’s family-friendly, so kids who enjoy boats or wildlife are likely to love it. It’s also suited for couples or groups of friends wanting a calm daytime outing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed experience with a dash of maritime history and wildlife observation, this schooner cruise on Casco Bay hits the spot. The two-hour duration makes it manageable for most schedules, and the friendly crew adds a warm, personal touch. While the lack of included food and drinks means you’ll want to come prepared, the overall value is solid when considering the historic vessel, stunning scenery, and the chance to participate actively.

Don’t expect a high-energy, all-day adventure — instead, think of this as a peaceful hour or two on the water, soaking in Maine’s breathtaking coast. It’s perfect for those who like their outdoor experiences with a good dose of history and natural beauty, especially if you enjoy sailing or are curious about Maine’s maritime legacy.

In short, this tour is a charming way to see Portland’s stunning coastline, appreciate its maritime craftsmanship, and maybe even learn a little about the seafaring life. It offers enough to keep you engaged without feeling rushed, making it a worthwhile addition to any Maine itinerary.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly. Several reviews mention kids enjoying helping hoist sails or taking the wheel, and life jackets are provided for children.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, making it a good option if you want a shorter yet memorable water experience.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
Yes, food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks, wine, or beer if you’d like to enjoy a drink while sailing.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The meeting point is Maine State Pier, which is conveniently located near public transportation.

What is the price?
Tickets are around $108 per person, which includes the cruise and life jackets. You’ll want to factor in bringing your own food or drinks.

Can I participate in sailing activities?
Absolutely. The crew may invite you to hoist sails or help steer the ship if you’re interested, adding an interactive element to the experience.

What’s the weather like?
Weather can vary, and rain might impact the experience. The crew responds well to weather issues, providing rain gear if needed.

Is there a lot of narration or commentary?
While there’s no official narration, crew members are very knowledgeable and cheerful, happy to answer questions about the ship, wildlife, or local sights.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic way to enjoy Maine’s coast with a touch of sailing adventure, this tour seems to deliver just that. It balances history, natural beauty, and fun participation, making it a memorable water outing for many travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: