Sail Portland Maine is proud to provide the best boat tours Portland, Maine has to offer, with various types of cruises and options to ensure there is something for everyone!
There are some common questions we are frequently asked prior to our chartered trips, which we have compiled and answered for you below. If you have questions that aren’t answered here, please contact us directly!
How long are the trips?
Trips generally last two hours for public and specialty cruises. Longer trips are available upon request.
What should we bring?
Any food or beverage you like. Any appropriate clothing you think you may want during the trip. BYOB!
Is gratuity included?
If you have a great time onboard, feel free to show it. This is considered a tourism/service based industry where a 20% tip is common. Your captain and crews will greatly appreciate it!
What happens if it rains at the time of my trip?
We are a rain or shine business. See our cancellation/rescheduling policy here.
Are babies/children allowed onboard?
Yes. But they count as a passenger towards our United States Coast Guard regulated passenger count and require a ticket purchased for them. If you show up without a ticket for them and the boat is sold out, you will be turned away and not refunded, or if there is room you will be required to purchase a ticket for them.
What do I wear?
Dress as you would for walking around town, but be sure to bring an extra sweater/sweatshirt and a windbreaker with you. If you’re “on the fence” about shorts versus long pants…go with the long pants. Also useful is a baseball type cap with visor, sunglasses (polarized are best) and sunscreen. And, of course, don’t forget your camera!
Here is a helpful packing guide to help you prepare.
May we bring along food and/or alcoholic beverages?
Yes – feel free to bring onboard with you any food, beer or wine that you’d like to.
Is there a bathroom aboard?
Yes, but it is very small. There are public restrooms very near the piers at the marina from which our boats leave.
How many people can we bring?
The Eleanor Hawkes has a maximum capacity of 6 guests. If you’re a group of 7 or more, please choose a private charter on our newly acquired picnic boat, the Calista Ann, which can accommodate a maximum of 12 guests.
Are tours handicap accessible?
Canes and walkers are fine on the boat, though a foldable walker may be best if it is an option. Wheelchairs are not able to fit on the boat.
Are the boats pet friendly?
Please call us if you have pets you want to bring onboard. The Calista Ann typically has Huckleberry the company boat dog onboard most trips.
Will we see wildlife?
There is plenty of wildlife to be seen in Casco Bay! From seals and seabirds to a variety of fish (and even the occasional dolphin!) there is plenty of wildlife to keep an eye out for on our charters.
Do I need to be concerned about seasickness?
You can expect smooth sailing, since we will be staying within the calm waters of Casco Bay – seasickness is uncommon, though if you are sensitive to it, preventative medication can be helpful. Please use at your own discretion.
Can I smoke onboard?
There is no smoking of any kind allowed during our trips.
Book Your Casco Bay Boat Tour in Portland, Maine
Come cruise aboard the Eleanor Hawkes, a traditional friendship sloop, or our newly acquired cocktail cruiser, the Calista Ann, and enjoy a trip of a lifetime on the most unique boat tours Portland Maine has to offer. Book your charter with Sail Portland Maine today!