Adventure brief
Private Half and Full Day Tour
Tailor your own maritime adventure on Maine’s Casco Bay with Portland Charter Boat. Choose from relaxing harbor cruises, island escapes, and sunset sails for a private, customizable journey with up to six guests.
Situated along Maine’s rugged coastline, Casco Bay is a harbor of endless discovery. The waters surrounding Portland offer countless inlets, quiet coves, and over 30 islands that shimmer against the Atlantic’s cool breeze. Portland Charter Boat takes full advantage of this striking seascape, delivering tailored private half- and full-day tours that invite up to six guests to experience Casco Bay from a uniquely personal vantage point.
Portland Charter Boat specializes in custom adventures, whether you’re after a peaceful harbor cruise, scenic island-hopping, or a sunset sail framed by expansive sky and sea. Each tour is crafted to deliver an experience that matches your group’s interests and pace. Swim in hidden coves off the beaten path, step foot on isolated islands, or simply unwind with your own beverages while watching seals and seabirds drift by.
The company’s flexible itineraries range from 3.5-hour half-day trips to immersive full-day voyages that open up the bay’s lesser-traveled corners. What distinguishes Portland Charter Boat is the combination of exclusivity and local knowledge. Their vessels are sized perfectly for small groups who want to avoid the crowds and dive deeper into the bay’s natural beauty and marine life.
Captains draw on extensive experience navigating these waters to introduce guests to the bay’s distinct glacial rock formations, salt marshes, and historic sites without sacrificing comfort or safety. Operating out of 72 Commercial Street in downtown Portland, this charter service offers a front-row seat to the living seascape of Maine’s coast. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning Maine enthusiast, the ability to curate your time on Casco Bay makes these private tours an outstanding choice for anyone craving a distinctive, hands-on maritime adventure just a short drive from Portland’s urban energy.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring Your Own Beveragesinfo
Alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks are welcome on board—pack what you like to enjoy while cruising.
- 02Dress in Layersessential
Maine’s coastal weather can shift quickly, so bring a light jacket even on warm days.
- 03Wear Sunscreen and Sunglassesessential
Protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s reflection off the water during your tour.
- 04Limit Group Sizeinfo
Each charter holds up to six guests—plan accordingly to secure a private, intimate experience.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Light Windbreaker
Keeps you warm and shields against spring breezes on the water.
springEssentialSunglasses
Protects eyes from glare reflecting off the bay’s surface.
summerEssentialSunscreen
Prevents sunburn during long hours spent cruising under the sun.
summerEssentialClosed-Toe Shoes
Useful for stepping ashore on rocky or uneven terrain during island stops.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Spectacle Island’s quiet hiking trails, Lobster Point for secluded swimming spots
Local fauna
Harbor seals, Ospreys hunting above the bay
Historic heritage
Casco Bay has served as a vital fishing and shipping region since the 1600s and is dotted with historic islands once home to fishing villages and coastal defenses.
Mindful exploration
Portland Charter Boat emphasizes sustainable boating practices to protect marine habitats and minimize environmental impact on Casco Bay.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- The deck looking toward the Portland Head Light, Island shorelines with granite outcrops, Open water vistas capturing distant islands
- Subjects
- Seabirds in flight, Coastal rock formations, Sailboat silhouettes against sunset
- Best times
- Golden hour at sunset, Mid-morning for clear sky shots
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their own beverages and snacks, including alcohol in moderation.
How many people can the boat accommodate?
Each private charter accommodates up to six guests.
Are children allowed on the tours?
Children are welcome aboard, and USCG-approved life jackets are provided for all passengers.
Can tours be customized based on our interests?
Absolutely. The itinerary is flexible and tailored to your group’s preferences within safety limits.
What should we wear for the trip?
Dress in layers, bring a light jacket, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection and comfort.
Where do tours depart from?
Tours leave from Portland Charter Boat’s dock at 72 Commercial Street in Portland, Maine.