Our tour begins with the small group gathering at Portland Paddle's site at the East End Beach, where you'll meet your guide and get geared up with lifejackets and paddles. After taking a look at the route on a map, your guide will provide a brief lesson on sea kayaking and help you select a kayak. All of our boats are high-quality, well-maintained sea kayaks that are designed for ocean paddling. We often use tandem (two-person) kayaks for our shorter trips because they are more stable and spacious than solo kayaks and easier for novice paddlers to use. If you prefer a solo kayak and have some sea kayaking experience, let us know when you book your trip. We have boats for all body types and skill levels.

Once everyone is in their boats, you'll launch onto the water. The group will start by paddling along the coastline as a group, making sure that everyone is comfortable in their boats before we head away from shore. Then your guide will lead you on your first crossing over open water into the islands of Casco Bay.

The exact route you take will depend on the weather conditions and the group's interests and experience. Every trip is a little different. Some of our favorite destinations are less than a mile away, but the great variety of islands in the bay offer endless possibilities for exploration. Look out for seals, lighthouses, wave-battered cliffs, seabirds, wooden schooners, hidden beaches and gorgeous 19th-century granite forts.

About half-way through your trip you will pull up at a beach on an island for a break. Your guide will lay out a variety of snacks that include a healthy treat and something sweet. You'll have time to go for a quick walk, take some photos, gaze in the tide pools or maybe even go for a swim!

Throughout your trip your guide will share their deep knowledge of the region's natural and cultural history. They will also be happy to help you improve your kayaking skills. And their top priorities will always be making sure the group is staying safe and having fun.