PORTLAND SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Sunset from a 1950s Maine Wooden Launch: Private Charter in Portland Harbor
A private, 2-hour sightseeing cruise aboard the 36-foot MARIE L that passes Portland’s iconic lighthouses, looks for coastal wildlife, and returns in time to watch the sunset silhouette the city skyline.
Sunset from a 1950s Maine Wooden Launch: Private Charter in Portland Harbor.
Leave the crowds and board MARIE L, a Maine‑built wooden passenger vessel from the 1950s, for a private two‑hour sightseeing tour out of Portland. The itinerary typically threads past Portland Head Light, Bug Light, Spring Point Light, Fort Gorges, Fort Scammel, and Ram Island Light, while skirting haunts for seals and offering chances to spot bald eagles before the Captain turns the boat toward home and the Portland skyline is framed by the setting sun.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A 1950s Maine wooden passenger launch
MARIE L is a 36‑foot, Maine‑built wooden passenger vessel from the 1950s with an 11.5‑foot beam, cushioned benches and a private head, configured for private groups and intimate viewing.
Iconic lighthouses and coastal wildlife
The usual route cruises past Portland Head Light—Maine’s oldest—and other harbor lights including Bug Light, Spring Point Light, Fort Gorges, Fort Scammel, and Ram Island Light, with regular opportunities to spot bald eagles on the rocky shorelines and seals at Halfway Rock.
Two hours into the setting sun
This private, two‑hour charter is timed to end with a dramatic sunset: the Captain steers back toward Portland so guests can watch the skyline silhouette as daylight falls.
What the day feels like
What it feels like aboard MARIE L
The trip is deliberately compact and intimate: a private group of up to six boards a wooden launch, cruises a familiar lighthouse route, scans coastal pines and rocky outcrops for eagles and seals, and finishes with the Captain angling the boat home to meet the sunset over Portland’s skyline—all within a two‑hour window.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private sunset charter suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Private, two‑hour charter offered at a flat rate of $665 for up to six guests.
MARIE L is a 36‑foot, 11.5‑foot beam, 1950s wooden passenger vessel with cushioned benches and a private head.
Optional upgrades available include catering and drink packages (all‑inclusive drinks, premium wines, beer, cider, and cocktails).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the charter?
The Private Sunset Charter aboard MARIE L is a two‑hour sightseeing tour.
How many people can onboard the MARIE L?
The vessel accommodates groups of up to six guests.
What is the cost for a private charter?
The flat rate for the private charter is $665 for up to six guests.
What sights and wildlife will we see?
The usual route includes Portland Head Light, Bug Light, Spring Point Light, Fort Gorges, Fort Scammel, and Ram Island Light, with opportunities to spot bald eagles and seals at Halfway Rock before returning for sunset over the Portland skyline.
Is there a restroom onboard?
Yes—MARIE L is equipped with a private head.
What are the vessel’s dimensions and era?
MARIE L is a 36‑foot, 1950s passenger vessel with an 11.5‑foot beam and cushioned bench seating.