Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 68 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks worth booking?
Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks is a 2-hour experience in Portland, United States, from $380 per person. It scores 66 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 68 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 66 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (68)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $380 per person
100% PRIVATE TOUR! Step aboard a vintage Maine Lobster Boat for a private, 2-hour lighthouse viewing & sightseeing charter. Leave the crowds behind as we cruise through the islands of Casco Bay, passing four iconic light
What you get
About this experience
100% PRIVATE TOUR! Step aboard a vintage Maine Lobster Boat for a private, 2-hour lighthouse viewing & sightseeing charter. Leave the crowds behind as we cruise through the islands of Casco Bay, passing four iconic lighthouses, historic 19th-century forts, and the stunning Maine coastline. Charters depart from Portland’s Old Port and are perfect for families and small groups. Each charter is completely private for up to 6 guests, and all ages are welcome! First round of drinks included – Enjoy a local Portland, Maine beer or a glass of wine as you take in the breathtaking views!
What's included
Included
- Licensed Captain
- Alcoholic beverages
- Private Charter for up to 6 guests (cost is a flat rate)
- Bottled water
- All Fees and Taxes
- Local Guide
- On-board restrooms
- Carbonated beverages
- Cooler, glassware, plates, & utensils for guest use
Not included
- Parking in Portland's Old Port
- Gratuity for your Guide
What you'll see and do
Portland
Board M/V MONHEGAN, a beautifully restored wooden lobster boat, and make yourself at home as you cruise through Portland's Harbor, past wharves dating to the period just after the Revolutionary War. At one point, Portland was one of the busiest harbors in the early decades of the United States, a fact attested to by the incredible stone fortresses protecting the harbor.
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Bug Light Park
Marking the entrance to Portland Harbor, this small lighthouse is typically the first of four lighthouses we see on our sightseeing excursions aboard our vintage wooden boats.
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Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
Get up close to Spring Point Light and nearby Fort Preble, a small gun emplacement built as a part of Portland's Harbor Defenses. In the early years, the lighthouse was not connected to the mainland by the granite breakwater that exists today, and ships that went on the wrong side of the lighthouse went aground on shallow ledge.
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Portland Head Light
See Maine's most iconic lighthouse from the water. Weather and sea conditions permitting, we spend time in the waters in front of the lighthouse for photos and discussion about the history of the lighthouse. We do not go ashore or tour the lighthouse. Lighthouse is not open for tours as it is still an active navigational beacon.
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Ram Island Ledge Light
Marking the opposite side of the harbor channel from Portland Head Light, Ram Island Light sits atop a rocky ledge and at high tide appears to be floating and completely unattached to land. Whereas Portland Head Light has its stately keeper's house and beautiful white washed sides, Ram Island Light is weathered and gray almost inaccessible, with a now-derelict pier leading to a ladder that requires one to climb up 30 feet on the outside of the lighthouse before you get to the door.
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Casco Bay
Casco Bay is world-renown for its rugged islands, protected waters, and fantastic scenery. Cruise past some of the bay's 200+ islands boasting tree-covered rocky cliffs, small fishing communities, and cute harbors.
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Fort Gorges
As the most conspicuous stone fortress protecting Portland Harbor, Fort Gorges is a landmark visible from much of Casco Bay, which is exactly why it was built on this rocky outcropping a short distance from Peaks and Little Diamond Islands and the mainland itself. The fort could fire more than a dozen cannons on attackers coming from any possible sea route, but was never used in active battle. Technological advancements in artillery during the Civil War rendered it too vulnerable to be useful. The fort did serve as a storage facility for the army during World War II, when underwater mines, electromagnetic sensing cables, and other systems were used to help protect Portland and Casco Bay from German attack. Remember, Portland was home to a large shipyard during WWII and was the start of a pipeline that supplies oil to Montreal and eastern Canada, so the region was of high strategic importance even in more modern conflicts.
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Peaks Island
Enjoy fantastic views of the scenic cliffs on Cushing Island and the tree-lined streets and quaint cottages of Peaks Island. Once home to several amusement parks that were served by direct steamer routes from New York, Peaks is now a quiet island neighborhood that is technically part of the City of Portland but has a small-town feel all its own. By the time the fall colors are in full view, most seasonal residents have returned to their usual homes, and Peaks is home to just a couple hundred hearty year round souls who must take a ferry or water taxi to get to the mainland.
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Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Portland
Meet at the back of the parking lot between Gilbert’s Chowder House and Dry Dock in Portland’s Old Port. Arrive 20 mins early to find parking. Wait at the top of the boat ramp next to Boone’s Fish House & The Porthole deck. Your deckhand will meet you at the ramp just before tour time
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Meet at the back of the parking lot between Gilbert’s Chowder House and Dry Dock in Portland’s Old Port. Arrive 20 mins early to find parking. Wait at the top of the boat ramp next to Boone’s Fish House & The Porthole deck. Your deckhand will meet you at the ramp just before tour time
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Casco Bay Custom Charters, LLC
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 67 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Small groups
3 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
67 verified traveler reviews for Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Enjoyable outing
The experience of being on the ocean was very nice and the boat was great.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing experience and...
Amazing experience and wonderful crew. We had young kids and a stroller and it was perfect. Can’t recommend enoung
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for joining us! We loved having you aboard. We hope you have a summer filled with fun adventures with your kids.
via Viator
Portland’s finest private tour on the water!
Fun adventure with a fantastic captain and crew! A wonderful overview of Portland’s coastline, lighthouses, and neighborhoods from the comfort of your private luxury boat!
via Viator
What a great way to see...
What a great way to see Portland from the water! Great tour guides and beautiful boat make this cruise to remember!
Response from the operator: Thank you! We’re so glad you enjoyed seeing Portland from the water — it really is a special perspective. Our crew takes pride in making each trip memorable, and we’re thrilled the boat and the experience left a lasting impression. Hope to see you back on Casco Bay soon!
via Viator
Great Experience On The Water
It was a relaxing, wonderful way to tour the Portland Harbor and see the lighthouses and islands. I highly recommend Captain Nick and his mate, Lauren.
Response from the operator: Thank you! We’re so glad you enjoyed a relaxing cruise around the harbor — it’s one of the best ways to experience Portland’s beauty. Captain Nick and Lauren will be thrilled to hear your kind words. We appreciate the recommendation and hope to welcome you back aboard soon!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $380 to $760
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 24
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 66
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Portland.
How much does Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks cost?
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Prices start at $380 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Portland usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks take?
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Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Portland is not rushed.
Is Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 66 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 68 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Portland, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks?
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Around 24 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Portland can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Portland and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Portland within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Portland?
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Portland sells lighthouse and lobster-boat tours in Casco Bay, Old Port food and brewery walks, seal and puffin cruises, and fall foliage runs up the Maine coast. On Outty we rank every Portland experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local, Portland, Maine: Hidden Histories Guided Walking Tour, A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Portland?
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June to October, with peak foliage in early October. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Portland?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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