Haul lobster traps on Casco Bay and see lighthouses in 80–90 minutes
80-90 minutes
Boat tour, Lobstering demonstration
Join a hands-on lobstering excursion on Casco Bay. Help haul traps or relax as you cruise past lighthouses, historic forts, and Seal Rocks.
Excursions operate rain or shine and boats are mostly exposed. It can be 10–15 degrees cooler on the water; bring layers. Arrive 20 minutes early to check in; onboard bathrooms are limited.
Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund. No-shows or cancellations within 24 hours are nonrefundable.
Do not wear clothes you are afraid to get dirty. It can be 10–15 degrees cooler on the water; bring layers and consider a hat. Any footwear is okay; in May and October you may need a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
Tours operate rain or shine. Boats have some cover but are mostly exposed, with limited seating under the wheelhouse. Aprons, pants, and gloves are provided, but bringing your own foul-weather gear is advised.
If thunderstorms become a safety concern, the excursion will be canceled or return to the dock. If canceled or if you return without pulling traps, you will receive a full refund.
Please meet at the ticket booth at 170 Commercial Street, Long Wharf, Portland, ME 04101. Please arrive at least 20 minutes before departure. Parking nearby can be difficult, so please allow extra time.
If you're heading to Portland, Maine and want a genuinely memorable way to experience the coast, this lobster boat tour consistently delivers. Captains like Dave and Brian lead small groups of around 12 people, keeping things personal and participatory. Guests get hands-on throughout, baiting traps, pulling them up, banding lobsters, and handling the catch. The crew clearly loves what they do, and that enthusiasm comes through in how they engage with everyone on board. The educational side is a real highlight. Guides break down the lobstering industry in a way that's genuinely interesting rather than scripted, and one reviewer even noted that a former teacher on staff made the learning feel effortless and fun. Beyond the lobstering, captains have been known to detour for seal sightings and share stories about Portland's harbor history, making the experience feel more like an adventure than a standard tour. At the end, you can buy lobsters from the day's catch and bring them next door to be cooked, which reviewers absolutely loved. Families with young kids and grandparents have done this tour and had a great time, and at least one group had a blast even in the rain. Book ahead though as spots fill up fast.
Caption Dave & Gretchen gave us a fantastic tour, lobster education and opportunity to buy and eat the day's catch at a really great price. Nice size craft only 12 tourists so comfortable to participate and learn. I highly recommend!!
Maureen Ryan
May 17, 2026
Caption Dave & Gretchen gave us a fantastic tour, lobster education and opportunity to buy and eat the day's catch at a really great price. Nice size craft only 12 tourists so comfortable to participate and learn. I highly recommend!!
Maureen Ryan
May 17, 2026