Places to Explore from Kennebunk
Local Attractions from Kennebunk
Boating from our location in Kennebunk, Maine, FBC members can enjoy a combination of river cruising and open ocean.
Cape Porpoise & Goat Island Light
Cruising from the Kennebunk River out toward Cape Porpoise Harbor offers a classic southern Maine boating experience. The run begins with a relaxed no-wake ride past waterfront homes, docks, and moored boats before opening up to the Atlantic. Once outside the river, the scenery shifts to rocky coastline, working lobster boats, and open water, with Cape Porpoise just a short, cruise away. At the center of it all is Goat Island Light, a picturesque lighthouse set among a cluster of small islands. Boaters can circle the light, take in the views, and soak up the authentic feel of a working harbor that remains largely unchanged over time.
Goose Rocks Beach
Cruising from the Kennebunk River to Goose Rocks Beach is a short run that transitions from calm river boating to open coastal scenery. After a no-wake ride, you’ll exit into the Atlantic and follow the shoreline north, where sandy stretches begin to replace rocky coastline.
A favorite destination for boaters, Goose Rocks has a wide, sandy shoreline. Many boaters anchor just offshore or nose up in shallow areas to swim, relax, or spend time on the beach. It’s an ideal stop for a laid-back outing.
Saco River
Running from the Kennebunk River to the Saco River is a scenic cruise that blends open-water boating with a transition to protected inland waters. After exiting the Kennebunk River, you’ll head north along the shoreline, passing sandy stretches, including Ferry Beach. The Saco River entrance is marked by rocky outcroppings, jetties and shifting conditions that require attentive navigation.
Once inside the Saco River, the pace changes to a more relaxed, sheltered cruise. The river winds inland past wooded banks, and marinas. Boaters often continue upriver to explore, stop for a break, or simply enjoy the contrast between coastal running and calm river boating—all within a manageable trip from Kennebunk.
Biddeford Pool
Leaving the Kennebunk River, this route heads north along the open coastline where you’ll pass the surf line off Fortunes Rocks Beach before picking up the channel into Biddeford Pool. The entrance is well-defined but requires attention to markers and conditions, adding just enough navigation to keep the run engaging without being overly technical.
Inside the Pool, the water settles and becomes quieter. Tidal currents move through the harbor, while protected coves and mooring fields create plenty of space to idle, observe, or simply enjoy the surroundings. It’s a destination that feels a bit more tucked away—ideal for boaters looking for something less traveled and more authentic along this stretch of coast.
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.
