
Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 45 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks worth booking?
Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks is a 2-hour experience in Portland, United States, from $407 per person. It scores 66 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 45 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 66 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (45)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $407 per person
Leave the crowds behind and step aboard a vintage Maine Lobster Boat for a private 2-hour sightseeing and lighthouse viewing charter, ending with a breathtaking Maine sunset. We’ll navigate through the islands of Casco Bay, passing by Portland’s most iconic coastal sights, including historic 19th-century forts, lighthouses, and the stunning Maine coastline. This experience is perfect for families and small groups, offering a completely private and personalized tour just for you. First round of alcoholic drinks included – Enjoy a local Portland, Maine beer or a glass of wine as you take in the view!
What you get
About this experience
Leave the crowds behind and step aboard a vintage Maine Lobster Boat for a private 2-hour sightseeing and lighthouse viewing charter, ending with a breathtaking Maine sunset. We’ll navigate through the islands of Casco Bay, passing by Portland’s most iconic coastal sights, including historic 19th-century forts, lighthouses, and the stunning Maine coastline. This experience is perfect for families and small groups, offering a completely private and personalized tour just for you. First round of alcoholic drinks included – Enjoy a local Portland, Maine beer or a glass of wine as you take in the view!
What's included
Included
- Licensed Captain
- Private Charter for up to 6 guests (cost is a flat rate)
- Alcoholic beverages
- 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
Casco Bay
With over 200 islands that are home to both tiny coastal fishing towns and Maine's largest city, Casco Bay is vibrant, scenic, and a great way to experience Maine's incredible beauty, world-class cuisine, and wonderful boating opportunities.
Pass by without stopping
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.
Pass by without stopping
Bug Light Park
This is the smallest and first of four lighthouses we will encounter on our cruise through Casco Bay. On windy days, keep an eye out for gatherings of expert kite flyers and their colorful kites. Sometimes there's even a giant purple octopus floating lazily in the breeze! Just around the corner from Bug Light is a statue of the bow of a Liberty Ship. Many ships were constructed here during WWII, including the S.S. Jeremiah O'Brien, which is a popular tourist attraction in San Francisco and one of the only surviving Liberty Ships.
Pass by without stopping
Portland Head Light
See Portland Head Light, Maine's oldest and most iconic lighthouse, from the water. Commissioned by George Washington and constructed starting in 1791, this lighthouse has been an important navigational beacon and local landmark for more than 2 centuries. The lighthouse has withstood hurricanes and global conflicts. German U-boats sunk a US Navy ship just 15 miles off the Head Light in the waning days of WWII.
Pass by without stopping
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.
Pass by without stopping
Peaks Island
See some of the most incredibleEnjoy 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.
Pass by without stopping
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
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 44 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
44 verified traveler reviews for Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Lobster Rolling through Maine
Our group of four visited Maine for the first time. We wanted a boating experience that was more personal than some of the large boat experiences, and this checked the box. The crew, Captain Zach and Lauren were excellent! We highly recommend this experience.
via Viator
The smaller size boat and...
The smaller size boat and occupancy gives the sunset cruise a more personal experience. The crew was extremely friendly and attentive. Beautiful scenery and sunset. Saw lots of wildlife in addition to the beautiful views.
via Viator
A fabulous private Sunset Cruise on Marie L with Casco Bay Custom Charters
The cruise, the crew, the appetizers and meals were all excellent. We had 15 people on the Casco Bay Custom Charter for a private Sunset Cruise on Marie L and it was perfect. They crew customize the experience exactly as you would like it and it's fun time. They were wonderful and the celebration of my son and his bride was loved by all. Book a cruise with Casco Bay Custom Charters you'll be happy you did.
via Tripadvisor
Absolutely fabulous tour!!!
Best tour of our trip!!! Nick and Myles were absolutely incredible hosts, answered all of our crazy historical questions, accommodated all of our needs, and were so great with the grandkids! They were informative and fun, and the tour left us in awe. Thanks for a fantastic evening!!! We highly recommend this trip!!!
via Tripadvisor
It was an outstanding tour!
It was an outstanding tour! First mate and Captain were the best. Very scenic tour and relaxing. Highly recommend it. Score big points with your date.
Response from the operator: Thanks so much, Michael! We’re thrilled to hear the cruise was a hit — and love that it earned you some extra points with your date! Scenic, relaxing evenings on Casco Bay are hard to beat, and our crew will be glad to know they helped make it memorable. We appreciate the recommendation and hope to see 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
- $407 to $815
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 16
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Casco Bay Custom Charters, LLC, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.0.
See everything Casco Bay Custom Charters, LLC runsWhy this scores 66
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Sunset 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 Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks cost?
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Prices start at $407 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 Sunset 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 Sunset 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 (5/5 across 45 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 Sunset 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 Sunset 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 Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks?
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Around 16 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 Sunset 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.
What is included in Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks?
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Included: Licensed Captain; Private Charter for up to 6 guests (cost is a flat rate); Alcoholic beverages; Bottled water; and All Fees and Taxes. Not included: Parking in Portland's Old Port; and Gratuity for your Guide. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks?
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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. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks?
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Across 45 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, photo opportunities. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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