Boating in Maine

Freshwater:

Whitewater Rafting in Maine

My family had a rustic camp up in the “The Forks”, which we used year round. While we had our own little stream to paddle our kayaks on, it was nothing compared to the Class IV and V rapids on the Kennebec River and the Dead River in the Forks. A number of whitewater rafting outfitters run the river daily from spring through fall. Of course, the water is pretty cold all year round, so wetsuits are provided by the rafting companies.

The Penobscot River in Millinocket is another basecamp for many of the same whitewater rafting outfitters to run more Class IV and V rapids.

Motor Boating on Lakes & Rivers in Maine

Kayaking & Canoeing in Maine

Both have a long history in Maine, after all, Maine is where one of the largest manufacturers of canoes and kayaks can be found, Old Town.

Whether you’re paddling peacefully around one of Maine’s many lakes and ponds, or canoeing on a Maine river, or sea kayaking around Maine’s islands, you’ll find a number of opportunities to enjoy powering your own boat.

Saltwater:

Sailing along the Atlantic Maine coastline

Maine’s sailing history is rich and deep. Windjammers and Maine Schooners can be found in Camden, Rockland, Rockport and Portland for daily tours and cruises around Maine harbors.

Ferry rides in Maine

In Portland, you can cruise around the islands of Casco Bay – go over to Peaks Island for lunch or dinner and discover amazing dining on Great Diamond Island.

Two commercial ferry lines run from Maine to Nova Scotia, Canada – out of Portland, Maine and Bar Harbor. Choose from a mini- overnight cruise ship or ride on the “Cat”, a high speed catamaran.

Maine whalewatching tours

Commerical whale watching tour operators run out of Portland, Bar Harbor and Boothbay Harbor.