"Everything from equipment to food, organization to presentation, and, of course, your staff, are the highest quality and a mark for everyone in the outdoor industry to aspire to."
— L. Soroka, Plattsburgh University
A full or half-day trip is a great way to get out on the water! Whether you're interested in a unique way to see coastal Maine, or are interested in trying out kayaking, or if you want a more in-depth look at the bay with a knowledgable local Registered Maine Guide you'll find a great day with us on Casco Bay.
Our home base on Peaks Island in Maine’s Casco Bay, offers a dramatic venue to explore Casco Bay’s outer islands. After a pleasant 15 minute ferry ride, you will get in your kayak, minutes away from a magical playground unseen by most.
Peaks Island and her neighbor islands, House, Ram, Cushing, Long, Chebeague, Hope, Cliff, Jewell and the Diamonds (Great Diamond and Little Diamond) provide us with protected waterways, short but lively crossings and the challenge of rocks and surf. Please know that this is not a lake - Casco Bay averages 10 foot tides and is influenced by conditions which inlcudes currents, coastal winds and some ocean swell - but also know that we have safely taken thousands of never-ever paddlers out onto these waters.
Half Day Trips: $70 per person
Full Day Trips: $110 per person (include a picnic lunch)
Trips meet at 9:45am. Take the 9:15 ferry from Portland.
Paddling from our base on Peaks Island, we wander past lighthouses, through protected passages, along rocky cliffs, beneath Civil War era forts, past seal covered ledges to island retreats. We land in hidden pocket beaches, maybe stop at an island ice cream store before adventuring out to explore the old forts on Jewel Island’s varied shores. Perhaps you’ll paddle across the stronger tidal flow of Broad Sound to visit Admiral Perry’s island hideout. With over 200 islands, a rich geological and human history, and tremendous variety of paddling, Casco Bay is a great area for experimenting with your readiness and skill set before adventuring further. It’s mixed hardwood forests create glorious Fall colors.
Immerse yourself in the astonishing geological history of the Gulf of Maine from the seat of your kayak. Spend your day exploring and studying the natural science, marine life, oceanography and social history of one of the principal fisheries on Earth. Develop your understanding of the important ecological, political and economic realities of humankind’s interaction with the sea while developing your own seamanship. Kayaking allows us to deepen our understanding and appreciation for the marine world.
We'll introduce you to kayaking with a focus on learning the right way. When you arrive on Peaks Island, we’ll walk over to our beach and review our plan for the day. We’ll introduce you to paddling effectively, get fitted for the boats, cover necessary instructional and safety issues, and get on the water by late morning. We’ll explore protected waters and passages to island retreats, pocket beaches and maybe visit Fort Gorges an 1860’s granite block Civil War era fort for lunch and exploring. The route may vary depending on weather and group interests.