Maine Whale Watching Tour Review

The Maine Whale Watching Tour offers an opportunity to witness the majestic marine life along the state’s stunning coastline. Passengers can spot humpback, fin, and minke whales, as well as playful pods of Atlantic white-sided dolphins. While the tour has received mixed reviews, many travelers praise the intimate setting and knowledgeable crew, making it a worthwhile adventure for nature enthusiasts. However, potential cancellations due to weather conditions and the inability to reschedule may be a concern for some visitors.

Good To Know

1. The Maine whale watching tour departs from Portland, lasts 3 hours, and costs $109 per person, with a maximum of 14 travelers.
2. The tour offers opportunities to spot humpback, fin, and minke whales, as well as Atlantic white-sided dolphins, with knowledgeable crew providing insights.
3. The tour has an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars based on 9 reviews, with positive experiences including whale and dolphin sightings.
4. Potential downsides include tour cancellations due to unsafe weather conditions, inability to reschedule, and no guaranteed whale sightings.
5. Portland offers alternative activities such as exploring the Old Port district, visiting the Portland Head Light, and indulging in craft beer tastings.

Tour Overview

The Maine Whale Watching Tour is a popular excursion that departs from Portland, USA. This 3-hour tour takes guests along the scenic Maine coastline in search of whales and other marine life.

With a maximum of 14 travelers, the tour provides an intimate experience. Priced at $109 per person, it includes bottled water and a cooler with ice.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions. Cancellations due to unsafe weather conditions are possible, though non-sighting passes are offered to encourage repeat customers.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The Maine Whale Watching Tour departs from the marina in Portland, Maine.

The meeting point is located at 1 Marina Wy, Portland, ME 04101, USA. Guests should park in the pay lot after 115 Thames St. (Twelve Restaurant) and head to the blue picnic tables between the parking lot and marina, which serves as the waiting area.

The tour includes the following:

1. Bottled water and a cooler with ice
2. A maximum of 14 travelers
3. Not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions
4. A moderate physical fitness level is required.

Inclusions and Accessibility

The Maine Whale Watching Tour includes bottled water and a cooler with ice for guests. The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, heart problems, or serious medical conditions. A moderate physical fitness level is required.

Inclusion	Accessibility
Bottled water	Not wheelchair accessible
Cooler with ice	Not recommended for those with:
	– Back problems
	– Pregnancy
	– Heart problems
	– Serious medical conditions
Fitness requirement: Moderate

Whale Watching Experiences

Travelers on the Maine Whale Watching Tour are in for an exciting adventure on the open waters.

While whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour offers several highlights:

1. Spotting majestic humpback, fin, and minke whales breaching and diving.
2. Observing playful pods of Atlantic white-sided dolphins.
3. Learning from the knowledgeable crew about the diverse marine life.
4. Enjoying the scenic views of the Casco Bay and the rugged Maine coastline.

Though weather conditions can be unpredictable, the tour provides an opportunity to witness the incredible natural wonders of the region.

Feedback and Ratings

Based on the 9 total reviews, the Maine Whale Watching Tour has an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars on Viator and Tripadvisor.

Reviewers highlight positive experiences like seeing whales and dolphins and a knowledgeable crew.

However, some note tour cancellations due to unsafe conditions and an inability to reschedule.

The host acknowledges the unpredictable nature of ocean activities and expresses gratitude for feedback.

They encourage repeat customers with non-sighting passes offered and emphasize safety as the top priority when tours are canceled, suggesting alternative activities in Portland.

Host Responses and Customer Service

Though the nature of whale watching can be unpredictable due to ever-changing ocean conditions, the tour operator demonstrates a responsive and accommodating approach to customer service.

When tours are canceled due to safety concerns, the host acknowledges the situation and offers the following:

1. Non-sighting passes for future tours
2. Recommendations for alternative activities in the Portland area
3. Expressions of gratitude for customer feedback
4. Encouragement for repeat customers

This emphasis on safety and flexibility, coupled with efforts to provide a positive experience, reflects the tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction despite the inherent challenges of whale watching.

Safety Considerations

Safety is a paramount concern for the Maine Whale Watching Tour. The tour isn’t suitable for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues.

Physical fitness is required as the tour involves moderate activity. Unpredictable ocean conditions can also pose risks, leading to tour cancellations at times.

The tour operator emphasizes safety and is transparent about potential challenges, offering alternative activities when tours are canceled.

Alternative Activities in Portland

What if the whale watching tour gets canceled due to weather or other factors?

Luckily, Portland offers a variety of alternative activities to enjoy.

Some options include:

1. Exploring the vibrant Old Port district, filled with boutiques, art galleries, and seafood restaurants.

2. Visiting the historic Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country.

3. Hiking the scenic Eastern Promenade Trail along the Casco Bay coastline.

4. Indulging in a craft beer tasting at one of the city’s renowned microbreweries.

While the whale watching tour may be missed, Portland’s diverse attractions guarantee a memorable visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a dress code, but casual, weather-appropriate attire is recommended. Guests should dress in layers and bring warm outerwear, as the ocean can be cool even on warm days.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Maine Whale Watching Tour. Travelers of all ages are welcome, though the operator notes the tour may not be suitable for young children or those with certain medical conditions due to the moderate physical fitness level required.

Is Food and Refreshment Available on the Tour?

The tour includes bottled water and a cooler with ice, but no other food or refreshments are provided. Travelers are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks if desired.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

Yes, passengers can bring their own camera equipment on the tour. The tour operator encourages bringing cameras to capture the whales and other marine life. However, the operator isn’t responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged equipment.

How Often Do These Tours Run Throughout the Week?

These whale watching tours run daily during peak season, with multiple departures scheduled throughout the week. Specific schedules and availability can be checked on the tour operator’s website or by contacting them directly.

The Sum Up

The Maine Whale Watching Tour offers a chance to spot diverse marine life along the stunning Maine coastline. While some have experienced tour cancellations due to weather, many travelers cherish the intimate setting and knowledgeable crew, making it a worthwhile adventure for nature enthusiasts. Despite occasional challenges, the tour provides an enchanting experience for those seeking to witness whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.