Casco Bay Boat Tour: Portland's Lighthouses, Forts and Seal Watching
Glide through Casco Bay on a two-hour tour that brings you closer to Portland Head Light, Fort Gorges, and sunning seal colonies. Perfect for photographers and history buffs who want a fast, local primer on Maine’s maritime coastline.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring layers and a wind shell
Wind and spray are constant on open-deck tours; a light, waterproof layer keeps you comfortable without overheating.
Binoculars or a telephoto lens
Seals and lighthouse details are best seen through optics—pack them for close-up shots without disturbing wildlife.
Tide-check if you want to land Fort Gorges
Landing on Fort Gorges is tide-dependent—message the operator ahead to confirm your tour overlaps the right tide window.
Arrive early to find the meeting point
Meet at the white gates and blue picnic tables near the Narrow Gauge train—plan extra time for parking or public transit.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Approaching Fort Gorges at low tide offers better shore access—ask about tide windows
- •Peaks Island’s western shore provides quieter coastal views if you plan extra time on land
Wildlife
- •Harbor seals
- •Common eiders and cormorants
Conservation Note
Operate with low wake in sensitive areas and avoid close approaches to hauled-out seals; the operator provides life jackets and follows wildlife-disturbance best practices.
Casco Bay’s lighthouses and forts reflect centuries of maritime traffic; Portland Head Light dates to the late 18th century and Fort Gorges is a Civil War–era granite fort.
Photographer's Notes
- • Approach to Fort Gorges for dramatic granite silhouettes
- • Water-side view of Portland Head Light for cliff context
- • Half Way Rock vicinity to capture seals on rocks
What to Bring
Wind shell or light waterproof jacketEssential
Blocks spray and wind on exposed decks, useful in all seasons.
Binoculars or 200mm+ lensEssential
Helps you spot seals, birdlife, and lighthouse details from the boat.
Non-slip shoesEssential
Stable footing on wet docks and deck surfaces is important.
Warm hat and gloves
Cooler months bring sharp winds off the bay—small insulation goes a long way.
Common Questions
Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at Fore Points Marina (1 Marina Way)—look for white gates and blue picnic tables next to the Narrow Gauge train platform.
Can we go ashore at Fort Gorges?
Sometimes. Landing is tide-dependent; message the operator in advance to confirm if your chosen time allows a landing.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes. The operator supplies appropriate life jackets for adults and children—notify them ahead if you’re bringing a small child so they can size correctly.
Will we see wildlife?
You have a good chance of seeing harbor seals and seabirds; sightings aren’t guaranteed but Half Way Rock is a reliable haul-out on calm days.
Is the tour suitable for children and older adults?
Yes. The trip is rated easy and designed for all fitness levels; infants must sit on laps and service animals are permitted.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; tours may be canceled for bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Portland, Maine
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal; suitable for walkers and families, mostly standing or seated with short, tide-dependent landings
Ready to Explore Portland?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now