Cruising in Coastal Maine

DAY ONE

Welcome to Vacationland! Make your way to Maine's pristine south coast region.
Your first stop is to enjoy free time on your own to shop at Stonewall Kitchens, manufacturers of Maine-made specialty condiments, jams and vinegars. Named for the graceful stonewalls that surrounded the original farm where the business began.
Then stop for a photo of Maine's southernmost lighthouse, the Nubble Light in Cape Neddick near York Beach. From Nubble Light you will also spot the infamous Boon Island Lighthouse, located just off-shore.
Before heading to the hotel for the evening you will stop for an authentic Lobster Dinner at the Cape Neddick Lobster Pound, other meal choices wil be available. Here you will meet the Maine Lobsterette on arrival who will provide a souvenir lobster hat along with walking maps for the villages you'll be visiting for lunch & shopping.
Continue north to check in to your Kennebunkport hotel, Lodge on the Cove for a four-night stay. Located one mile from Dock Square, this restored motor lodge with a "retro chic" vibe features contemporary furnishings, outdoor heated pool, welcome reception, poolside bar and restaurant, lawn games and evening bonfires. The entire property will be reserved for your group making it a more personal experience.

DAY TWO

Hot breakfast included this morning at the hotel before meeting your local guide for a narrated tour of Kennebunkport and Kennebunk, two shipbuilding villages on Maine's south coast. Hear the history and folklore as you drive past the beaches, hear the legend of the Wedding Cake House and maritime history of sea captains and shipbuilders. You'll travel through the port and along Ocean Avenue, past the Bush summer home at Walker's Point and tour the Franciscan Monastery with its seaside shrines and gardens.
Free time for shopping and lunch on own in Dock Square.
Experience authentic lobster harvesting along the rocky coast on a Maine Lobstering cruise. Learn how the lobstermen make their living as they haul traps from the sea on board a special narrated lobstering tour boat.
Return to the hotel to freshen up for your included dinner at a local Favorite.

DAY THREE

Hot breakfast included this morning at the hotel before meeting your local guide for a narrated tour of Portland, Maine's largest city-by-the-sea. You'll see views of Longfellow's boyhood home, sea captain houses and the elegant mansions as you drive through historic neighborhoods overlooking the islands of Casco Bay in Portland Harbor. Your tour includes a stop at Portland Head Lighthouse. This historic landmark is the most photographed lighthouse in America, set in Fort Williams Park.
Time for shopping along cobblestone streets and lunch on own in Portland's historic waterfront district, the Old Port Exchange. Portland is a small city that mixes urban sophistication with home-town friendliness. The Old Port area has been restored to 19th century splendor, with cobbled streets and beautiful Victorian brick buildings housing an eclectic mix of restaurants, microbreweries, art galleries, and specialty shops. Here you can enjoy views of Casco bay while enjoying a quick lunch, or browse through the quaint shops selling crafts, antiques, and Maine-made products.
Next you will take a narrated Portland Harbor cruise. Pass through the Calendar Islands of Casco Bay and past several lighthouses. You're likely to spot a harbor seal as well as hear the maritime history of Maine's largest seaport.
Your included dinner this evening will be at a local Favorite in Portland.

DAY FOUR

Enjoy an included breakfast this morning before heading to Damariscotta.
This morning, you'll enjoy a special Aquaculture Outing on an Oyster Farm / Seal Watch cruise. Learn how oyster farmers prepare the farm equipment and sow the world-famous Damariscotta River oysters, while bald eagles, ospreys and migratory birds hover.
Next, you'll stop at the Maine Tasting Center in Wiscasset. Your host will meet the group and share some fun facts about Maine foods. Head to the tasting room for one free beverage, your choice of soda, wine, beer, cider, mead or kombucha and an included lunch. (Maine-made products on site to purchase)
After lunch you will head to Freeport for free time exploring Freeport Village, home to the LL Bean flagship store and a myriad of casual restaurants and outlet shops.
Dinner is included this evening at a local favorite before returning to the hotel.

DAY FIVE

Hot breakfast included this morning at the hotel before taking a ride into yesteryear to discover the heritage of America's grand trolley era at the Seashore Trolley Museum. You'll take a scenic half hour ride through the Maine countryside on a restored streetcar and a guided tour through the impressive exhibit barn with trolleys from around the country. Learn the interesting stories of where they operated and how they were restored.
Next you will travel South to Ogunquit's Perkins Cove to enjoy free time for shopping and lunch on your own. Walk on the Marginal Way shoreline path or across the unique drawbridge, see the lobster boats, sailboats and quint shops. See why this region has always been popular with artis and photographers.
Now it is time to travel home with your Maine Seacoast Memories!
Depart 12:30.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner