Top 5 Old Orchard Beach Cruises & Boat Tours: Reviews & Tips
Old Orchard Beach, that iconic spot in Maine, it’s almost more than just the beach, right? So, if you’re figuring out ways to make the most of your time there, hopping on a cruise or boat tour could be just what you’re looking for coastal adventures. You get a totally different view from the water, seeing the shoreline and getting the sea air – that salty smell just hits different. We took a look at some favorite local cruises and tours around OOB that might give you something to think about.
1. Finestkind Scenic Cruises: A Classic Maine Experience
Finestkind Scenic Cruises in Perkins Cove, which is technically in Ogunquit, it’s only a short drive from Old Orchard, too it’s really quite close. You know, this one gets mentioned a lot. That the main deal here is seeing the sights – you’re not exactly out for high-speed thrills. You could get some classic Maine views, think rocky coastline and maybe a lighthouse or two. They usually have different tours with varying lengths, which means you can pick what sounds most interesting for your crew and schedule Maine boat tours. One thing people comment on rather often is the tour guides; they’re usually full of local stories and give you a feel for the region, just a little.
What Makes it Special:
- Scenic Views: Perfect for people who want to relax and soak up the coast.
- Local Stories: Tour guides bring the area to life with interesting tales.
- Variety: Several tour options fit different interests and schedules.
Possible Drawbacks: While it sounds quite soothing, anyone hoping for something faster-paced might be wanting for something else. Then you might also keep in mind that it can get crowded during peak season, too. So, maybe consider booking ahead.
2. Libby’s Fleet: Fishing and Family Fun
Libby’s Fleet might be what you are after if the thought of catching some fish interests you – it sails out of the port, not so far from Old Orchard. They actually do a good bit of deep-sea fishing trips, but they actually have some scenic cruises as well, a bit. So it might be great whether you are something of a dedicated angler or maybe just want something different Maine fishing charters.
What Makes it Special:
- Fishing Trips: You may try your hand at catching fish out in the Gulf of Maine.
- Family Friendly: Something that people of many ages may have fun doing.
- Combo Options: Both fishing and sightseeing cruises are a possibility.
Possible Drawbacks: Of course, a fishing trip isn’t for everyone. It also depends somewhat on sea conditions, too it’s really that some days might be rougher than others. That means maybe give that consideration if anyone with you gets seasick a little.
3. Casco Bay Lines: Island Hopping and Mailboats
Casco Bay Lines, now they’re not based in Old Orchard directly – you can find them over in Portland – which really just means it is a pretty easy drive. They mostly work a public transport service, connecting different islands in Casco Bay. However, they also do a few sightseeing cruises that might just give you an awesome perspective of the region. A particularly well-liked tour involves seeing the mailboat delivering to some different islands, and a number of these are year-round communities that really are a little different to observe a bit Maine island tours.
What Makes it Special:
- Island Exploration: Observe several different islands and how folks live there.
- Unique Mailboat Tour: Get an extraordinary glimpse into daily island life.
- Affordable: Very good prices for what you get.
Possible Drawbacks: Since it isn’t solely a tourist operation, some routes mostly have functional needs rather than a lot of narration. Do consider this, especially when hoping for constant entertaining facts a bit.
4. Downeast Sailing Adventures: Sailboat Tours near Old Orchard Beach
Sailing enthusiasts? Downeast Sailing Adventures which operates a bit further up the coast, could be more your speed perhaps. Anyway, they do various kinds of sailing tours aboard some sailboats – a change coming from the motor cruises other places have to offer sailing charters. You might join a smaller group and experience what it feels like to really sail the Maine coast – a calming alternative from faster options. Sailing gives a serene sense that many love.
What Makes it Special:
- Sailing Experience: Feel the natural motion of sailing.
- Smaller Groups: A more personal experience with less commotion.
Possible Drawbacks: Naturally, the experience may vary significantly based upon weather on that particular day. That does mean a very still day could lead to limited sailing.
5. Old Orchard Beach Pier: Fishing and Views
Okay, so Old Orchard Beach Pier really isn’t exactly a cruise or a tour, though you know, for something a little simpler that keeps you over the ocean, maybe consider that pier at Old Orchard Beach that. That does extend a distance out into the Atlantic. Folks do everything from stroll around, eat food, to drop a line and catch a few fish. So, for anybody not particularly wanting a prolonged trip on some boat, the pier gives a pretty accessible opportunity to soak up the ocean ambiance maybe Old Orchard Beach things to do.
What Makes it Special:
- Convenient Access: It is located directly on Old Orchard Beach.
- Versatile: Eat something, have a walk, or go fishing.
Possible Drawbacks: That can get awfully crowded at the time of high season. Of course you won’t get really remote views of the shoreline like going farther out to sea a bit.