Places to Explore in Portland Harbor
Local Attractions from Portland
Boating from our location in Portland Harbor, Maine, FBC members can enjoy stunning views of historic forts, lighthouses, and explore the many islands in Casco Bay.
Fort Gorges
Built in 1868, Fort Gorges is a former U.S. military fort built on Hog Island Ledge in Casco Bay. Built from 1858 to 1865, no battles were fought there, and no troops were stationed there. Advancing military technology, including ironclad ships and long-range guns, rendered the fort obsolete before it could be used.
It was acquired by the city of Portland in 1960 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. It is now open to the public as a park and is accessible only by boat. Visitors are recommended to carry a flashlight to enter the powder magazines.
Lighthouse Tour
Boaters cruising Portland Harbor can take in three of Maine’s most iconic lighthouses in a single outing. Portland Breakwater Light—commonly known as Bug Light—offers a unique, decorative design and sits just inside the harbor. Nearby, Spring Point Ledge Light marks the entrance to the harbor with its distinctive caisson-style structure and accessible breakwater. Just beyond, Portland Head Light stands as one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country, set against dramatic rocky shoreline.
Together, these three landmarks create a classic and easily accessible sightseeing route for boaters exploring Casco Bay.
Long Island
Located 6 miles off the coast of Portland, Long Island is 3 miles long and 1 mile wide, and has a winter population of 200, swelling to over 1,000 in the summer.
Long Island has beautiful beaches, picturesque harbors, a freshwater marsh, and 125-acre conservation area complete with beavers, a cranberry bog, and forests. Be sure to check out Long Island Bakehouse and The Boathouse Beverage and Variety Store.
Little Whaleboat
A favorite stop for boaters looking to enjoy a day away from the crowds, Little Whaleboat consists of a cluster of islands owned by the Maine Coast Heritage Trust.
Its surrounding coves and sheltered areas are ideal for anchoring, swimming, and enjoying lunch onboard while taking in classic Maine coastal scenery.
Anchorage is located on the northeast side. Ledges guard the northwest and south. There are two first-come, first-serve low impact campsites, a north site and an east site.
The Dolphin
Sitting at the tip of Basin Point in Pott's Harbor, The Dolphin on Harpswell Island invites boaters to dock and dine. Known for its famous fish chowder, lobster stew, and blueberry muffins, the menu also features Maine lobster dinners, fresh, local seafood, and hand cut steaks.
The picturesque harbor is surrounded by Bailey, Haskell, Flag, Eagle, Horse, Birch, and Whaleboat islands. The marina monitors VHF channel #9 and reservations can be made through Dockwa.
Chebeague Island
Chebeague Island offers dining, golf, and more. Head to the iconic Chebeague Island Stone Wharf to visit the Chebeague Inn for lunch, cocktails, or a relaxing afternoon on the lawn with sweeping ocean views.
Golfers can enjoy a round at Great Chebeague Golf Club, one of Maine’s most scenic island courses, known for its coastal setting and welcoming atmosphere.
Visitors can also explore the island by bike or golf cart, stroll quiet roads lined with cottages, visit local beaches, or stop into small shops and markets.
Peaks Island Marina
Conveniently located on the southwest side of Peaks Island, the marina is just a quick 20 minute boat ride from Portland. A variety of local shops and restaurants are within walking distance from the marina.
Both transient dock space and moorings are available for rent by the hour, night, or week. Hourly slip rentals are first-come, first-served. During the height of the summer they do fill up. For dockage, call 207-415-7642 or hail VHF channel 9.
Diamond's Edge
Located at the northern end of Great Diamond Island, Diamond’s Edge Marina is available for guests at Diamond's Edge Restaurant, the Crown Jewel, the Inn at Diamond Cove, and the Fort McKinley Museum.
Reservations for dock space are made through Dockwa and are $35 for the day. Boaters are asked to hail the marina on VHF channel 9 as you enter the harbor, and they will guide you to your slip. If you do dock and dine, bring your restaurant receipt to the dock staff to receive 30% off your day trip dockage fee.
Cook's Lobster & Ale House
Located on Bailey Island in Harpswell, Cook's Lobster & Ale House has been serving lobster since 1955.
Grab space at the dock and enjoy fresh lobster and lots of other great food options in their newly expanded dining room, renovated pub, or on the deck while taking in the beautiful sights of Casco Bay from every seat in the house! They offer a large selection of Maine craft beer and signature drinks. And there’s live entertainment on the deck most weekends.
Paul's Marina
A small, family run marina on Mere Point in Brunswick, Paul’s Marina has a small general store where you can grab a sandwich or ice cream.
Their friendly staff prides itself on treating all guests like family. On premise you can find Judy's General Store which offers freshly made cookies and muffins, sandwiches made to order, Gifford's Ice Cream, penny candy, and the Mainely Made Gift Shop full of island apparel and goodies locally made.
To access a dock or mooring, radio the marina on VHF channel 9 or call the store 207-729-3067.
Need More On-Water Training?
Venturing by water to new destinations can be intimidating if you haven't done it before. Having strong skills can build confidence and help keep you safe.
Want more practice? Click below to schedule an on-water training with one of our licensed U.S. Coast Guard Training Captains.
Book a Captain for Hire
Want to explore but don't want to take the helm? Book a Captain for Hire. One of our licensed U.S. Coast Guard Captains can take you, your family and/or friends out on the water. Then you can just sit back, relax and enjoy. Options include Dock & Dine, Sunset Cruise, Casco Bay Familiarization Tour and more.
Click below to book your outing.
