Old Port “Seafood Lovers” Walking Lunch Tour in Portland, Maine

If you’re heading to Portland, Maine, and love the idea of tasting fresh seafood while soaking in some local history, the Old Port “Seafood Lovers” Walking Lunch Tour might catch your eye. We’ve looked into it thoroughly, and here’s what you need to know before booking.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on genuine, locally caught seafood paired with insightful commentary from guides who know their stuff. Plus, the included lobster roll, chowder, craft beer or soda, and souvenirs make it feel like a well-rounded experience. On the flip side, a few might find the tour’s price point a bit steep for just a couple of hours of tasting and walking, especially if you’re on a budget.

This experience is perfect if you’re a seafood lover eager to learn about the lobster industry while enjoying Portland’s waterfront vibe. It also suits travelers who appreciate a mix of food and some light education, all in a manageable, friendly group.

Key Points

• Authentic seafood tasting includes lobster rolls and chowder, showcasing local Maine flavors.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the lobster industry and Portland’s waterfront life.
• Value for money with included drinks, souvenirs, and a lively walking experience.
• Accessible for most travelers with moderate physical activity and walkability.
• Tour length of about 2 hours 30 minutes offers a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.
• Small group size (up to 14 guests) ensures a personalized experience.

What’s Included in the Tour?

This tour is designed to give you a taste of Portland’s seafood and local culture in about 2.5 hours. For the price of $159.99 per person, you get a lot more than just a walk. The experience is led by a knowledgeable guide who takes you through the Old Port and Waterfront District, visiting a mix of restaurants, pubs, markets, and artisanal shops.

You’ll start at Andy’s Old Port Pub and end at Cellardoor Winery or Deans Sweets, depending on the day. Along the way, you’ll sample a fresh lobster roll—a Portland staple—along with clams or seafood chowder, complemented by craft beer or soda. The inclusion of drinks is a nice touch, especially since you’re sampling local flavors, and many reviews mention how much they enjoyed trying regional beers like Allagash.

A small but thoughtful addition is the souvenir gift you take home, which adds a memorable touch to the tour. Although gratuities aren’t included, reviews repeatedly praise guides for their warmth and knowledge, making tipping a nice way to show appreciation.

What’s Not Included

Gratuities are not included in the tour price, so if you felt your guide did a great job, tipping is appreciated. Also, travelers should note that there are no vegetarian or gluten-free options available on the tour, so if you have dietary restrictions, this might not be the best fit.

How the Tour Unfolds

Stop 1: Old Port Walk

The tour kicks off with a leisurely walk around the historic Old Port area. This part is about soaking in the sights and hearing stories about Portland’s maritime past. Guides often share personal insights, making the experience feel friendly and authentic. As you stroll, you get to see the docks where lobster boats unload their catches—an engaging way to connect with Maine’s famous seafood industry.

Sampling and Learning

The real highlight here is tasting a freshly prepared lobster roll, which most reviews rave about. The seafood is always fresh, thanks to local sourcing, and the guide explains what makes Maine lobsters special. Alongside, you’ll enjoy a hearty cup of clam or seafood chowder, a quintessential New England dish.

One reviewer shared that the guide, AJ, was “fantastic and we enjoyed it so much,” noting her engaging storytelling. Guests learn about the lobster industry—from how lobsters are caught on the ocean floor to what makes Maine lobster unique. Many appreciate the detailed explanations, which add depth to the tasting experience.

Food Quality and Portions

The portions are generally generous, with multiple reviews mentioning that guests often leave feeling full. The dishes are described as delicious, with some reviewers noting the chowder as “the area’s best,” and the lobster roll as “freshly picked.” The inclusion of local craft beers, such as Allagash, is often highlighted as a perfect pairing.

The Atmosphere

The tour’s pace is relaxed, typically walking through the waterfront and market areas. It’s a comfortable walk, suitable for most with moderate physical fitness. The small group size ensures that conversations with guides and fellow travelers are easy-going and friendly.

Souvenir and Final Stop

The tour concludes at either Cellardoor Winery or Deans Sweets, depending on timing. Guests often comment on the friendly atmosphere and the additional recommendations for exploring Portland further.

The Guides and Their Impact

Multiple reviews highlight the importance of a good guide. AJ, Timothy, Ray, and Marsha are often praised for their knowledge and warmth. Guests love guides who make learning about local food and history fun and accessible. Ray, for instance, was described as “extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and courteous,” who even customized the tour, making the experience feel personal.

Is the Price Worth It?

At nearly $160, this tour isn’t the cheapest in town, but considering what’s included—multiple tastings, drinks, souvenirs—many consider it a fair deal. Guests mention that the portions are large enough to feel like a full meal, and the guided insight adds value beyond just eating.

However, some reviews note that the lobster roll wasn’t “nothing special” or what they’d hoped, which suggests that if you’re expecting a gourmet experience, this might be more about the local flavor and storytelling than fine dining. Still, most reviewers agree the overall experience is “delicious” and “well worth it.”

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is especially suited for seafood lovers, curious travelers wanting to learn about Maine’s lobster industry, and those who appreciate a relaxed, social outing. It’s also a good pick if you want a memorable introduction to Portland’s waterfront and food scene without committing to a full restaurant meal.

Note that it’s not designed for vegetarians or those with severe dietary restrictions since options are limited. Also, the tour is accessible for most with moderate walking ability but may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

The Bottom Line

The Old Port “Seafood Lovers” Walking Lunch Tour offers an authentic, engaging way to experience Portland’s seafood culture. You’ll taste some of the freshest local seafood, learn from passionate guides, and soak in the city’s maritime character—all in a relaxed, small-group setting.

It’s a good choice if you’re keen on trying Portland’s signature dishes like lobster rolls and chowder while gaining some insight into the local fishing industry. The included drinks and souvenirs add a nice touch, making it feel like a well-curated experience rather than just a quick tasting.

That said, if you’re hoping for a gourmet seafood feast or have special dietary needs, you might find the tour somewhat limited. But for most, it’s a fun, informative, and tasty way to spend part of your Portland trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? While it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour, the walk and tasting experience can be enjoyed by older children, especially those interested in seafood and local culture. Keep in mind the tour involves walking and some seafood eating, so younger kids might not find it ideal.

How long does the tour last? The tour runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you a relaxed pace to enjoy both the food and the sights without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included? Yes, craft beer or soda are included in the tour price, allowing everyone to enjoy a refreshing drink with their seafood.

Does the tour cover local history? Absolutely. Guides share stories about Portland’s fishing industry, the waterfront, and the city’s maritime background, enriching the tasting experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. If you cancel less than 24 hours in advance, you won’t receive a refund.

Is the tour accessible for those with limited mobility? The tour requires a moderate level of physical activity, mainly walking, so it’s suitable for most but not recommended for those with significant mobility issues.

What if I have dietary restrictions? The tour doesn’t offer alternatives for gluten, seafood sensitivities, or vegetarian diets. Consider this before booking if you have specific dietary needs.

If you’re seeking a fun, flavorful way to get to know Portland’s seafood culture with friendly guides and a relaxed vibe, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a tasty, educational outing that captures the essence of Maine’s coastal charm—perfect for foodies and curious travelers alike.