Quick Details
Adult
Ages 17+
$ 75
Child
Ages 10-16
$ 70
Private Tour , 1 - 4 people
Price is per trip
$ 335
Private Tour , 5+ people
Price is per person
$ 75
Kayak across Portland harbor and tour Fort Gorges — One of Maine’s most fascinating historic sites!
We’ll start off this guided trip with a paddle into Portland harbor and then make the crossing out to Fort Gorges, an abandoned Civil War-era fort in the middle of Casco Bay. We’ll land on a beach at the Fort, and your knowledgeable guide will tell you all about the Fort’s storied history and uncertain future. After plenty of time exploring the site, we’ll paddle back to East End Beach.
This trip involves roughly two hours of slow to moderate-pace sea kayaking and is appropriate for novice paddlers.
Please keep in mind that Fort Gorges is a historical structure that is not currently maintained, so there are no bathroom facilities and there are unlit areas that require caution when exploring.
More Info
-
- Views of the major landmarks of southern Casco Bay, including lighthouses, forts and the working waterfront of Portland harbor.
- A visit to historic Fort Gorges, where you’ll spend 30-45 minutes exploring the site, which is only accessible by small boat
- Possible sightings of seals, eider ducks, guillemots, osprey, eagles and all sorts of seabirds
-
- Double (two-person) sea kayaks that are stable, swift and perfect for beginners. Or, if you prefer, request a solo kayak.
- A brief lesson on the basics of sea kayaking taught by expert Licensed Maine Kayak Guide
- Basic sea kayaking gear (PFD, paddle, dry bag etc)
-
Clothing: It’s often cooler on the water than on land, so bring a warm layer even if it is a warm day. Sometimes we get slightly wet from seaspray or from water dripping off the paddles. Cotton will not keep you warm if it gets wet, so it’s best to leave the blue jeans and t-shirts at home and wear fleece, nylon, wool or other non-cotton materials. Long sleeves are also the best protection against sunburn, so a light, long sleeved shirt is often best for sun protection.
Footwear: You may need to briefly step in shallow water while getting in and out of your kayak, so you should wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. We recommend close-toed shoes to protect from stubbed toes, watershoes or sneakers are good options. During a trip with Portland Paddle you may encounter a variety of ground surfaces, including rocks, mud, and sand, so be prepared!