Most people know us as Portland’s iconic ferry system—yellow, red, and white boats that work day-in and day-out to transport people to and from the islands. There’s no doubt – this is our thing.

But… what about those of us who just want to get out on the water? In that case, what you’re really looking for is a boat ride. A moment or two with the salty breeze whipping through your hair. Leaving all your cares on shore, no particular destination you need to reach, soaking in the sun. Ahhhhhhhh…

What’s that you say? You don’t own a boat? No problem. We do! And, with several different options to choose from, we think that a Casco Bay Lines cruise might be the perfect way to get yourself, your in-laws who are visiting, or your kids, out on the water this summer.

We make it easy to cruise the bay—just pack a bag with refreshments of your choosing, sunscreen, and an extra layer, grab your ticket at our terminal located on the Maine State Pier, and come aboard!

Here’s a quick look at each of our specialty cruises:

Peaks Island Run: If only have an hour or so, soak up some sunshine and salty summer air while you enjoy the quick crossing to Peaks Island. If you’ve got a couple of hours, hop off the boat and grab some lunch, explore the beaches, and don’t forget an ice cream for the ride back.

Mailboat Run: This cruise offers a unique chance to experience Maine’s rugged coastline onboard a true working boat. The mailboat delivers freight of all shapes and sizes to the island communities year-round, and we think this trip is one of Portland’s best kept secrets.

Diamond Pass Run: This seasonal cruise takes you along the shoreline of Little and Great Diamond Islands. Take in the beautiful cottages and get a glimpse of island life as the boat travels to four different stops.

Sunset Run: What could be better than watching Portland shimmer in the sunset with a picnic dinner and a thermos of wine? Relax and enjoy the evening ocean breeze while the ferry navigates the moonlit waters of the bay.

Sunrise Run: This one’s for the early birds. Join us for the first departure of the day and watch Casco Bay’s working waterfront come to life. Catch Portland’s fishing fleet headed out for the day and lobstermen hauling traps as the sun comes up.

Moonlight Run: Come aboard and watch the harbor lights twinkle in the moonlight as you make your way through the moonlit waters of Casco Bay. This seasonal favorite is only available from June to September.

Bailey Island: This summer-time staple begins June 23^rd for the season and is the perfect way to spend a whole day out on the water! Listen as the captain narrates the history of Casco Bay while you cruise past lighthouses, forts, and 19^th century summer cottages. Enjoy a 2-hour layover to explore Bailey Island or to grab lunch at Cook’s Lobster & Ale House before getting back on board.

What are you waiting for? No matter your schedule, we’ve got the perfect cruise for your summer adventures. Visit our website to learn more about all of our cruises.

The post Looking for a Summer Escape? Come Cruise Casco Bay With Us! appeared first on Casco Bay Lines.

With warmer weather on the way, we thought it might be fun to dream a little and plan for your spring and summer on Casco Bay. Here are our top five ideas for your adventures:

1. Take the Mailboat Run down the bay. Whether you live here, or you’ve got visitors in town from away, we think our Mailboat Run is hands-down the most interesting way to cruise Casco Bay! Twice a day the Maquoit II delivers mail and other goods to islanders and offers landlubbers a glimpse into island life (plus a gorgeous view of Casco Bay).
2. Plan the perfect date night—pack a picnic and some wine for a romantic sunset cruise. Summer nights in Maine are near perfect – add in a cool ocean breeze and the beauty of Casco Bay, and what could be better? Our Sunset Run cruise lets you relax in the twilight of a perfect Maine day while Portland shimmers in the distance.
3. Explore World War II ruins on Peaks Island. In its heyday, Battery Steele stood guard over Portland Harbor, keeping it safe from invaders during World War II. Today, the fortification stands empty, and ready for exploring.
4. Starting June 23, hop on board the Aucocisco III for a can’t-miss summer classic—a trip to Bailey Island. In addition to being the home of Cook’s Lobster & Ale House, one of the island’s claims to fame is a one-of-a-kind bridge. The Cribstone Bridge was built in 1928 out of individual granite ties, and connects the island to the mainland. Its unique construction has kept the bridge standing strong for close to 90 years with little to no maintenance. Adding to the cool-factor, the bridge is the only one of its kind in the world!
5. Dance the night away on a music cruise. Here’s some inside scoop: our first music cruise of the 2018 season is scheduled for June 16 at 8 p.m with The Hurricanes – keep an eye out, tickets should be available on our website in the next couple of days! All music cruises are 21 plus, feature a cash bar, and sail rain or shine.

Check out our seasonal and cruise schedules online and start planning your spring and summer adventures today!

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As the oldest running service of its kind, our Mailboat run not only delivers the mail and other goods to islanders, it offers landlubbers a glimpse at the realities of island life and the opportunity to adventure along Maine’s rugged coastline. And (hint hint) Father’s Day seems like the perfect opportunity to try this adventure on for size. Hat tip to our friends over at WJBQ: great minds think alike!

Here’s the deal. The Maquoit II typically makes the Mailboat Run every day (see most updated schedule here). Plan to arrive a little early and give yourself time to buy your ticket and watch our amazing crew work their magic, loading cargo, and readying the ninety three ton vessel for take-off.

Hopefully you’ve packed your sunscreen and your cooler – both will come in handy once you pick your spot on the deck. Of course, for those not as eager to face the elements, there is indoor seating. Once everyone’s settled, the boat’s captain will welcome you aboard as the crew drops the lines.

Portland’s true working waterfront will be on display, lobstermen hauling traps and cargo ships chugging in and out of the harbor, as you relax and leave your yardwork and the honey-do list behind.

The city fading into the background, now is the time to break into that cooler. With any luck, you’ll find some snacks and maybe a cold one for Dad from any one of Portland’s own breweries. Indulge as you watch the lobster buoys bob past and seals play in the wake.

This cruise stops at five islands to unload cargo: Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Long, Cliff, and Chebeague.

And for the history buff Dads out there. We see you. The Captain will point out some of Portland’s coolest historical landmarks including Ft. Gorges – a fort that never saw battle, but seems to still stand guard over the harbor—and Luckse Sound – where ships were sunk during WWII to keep enemy submarines out of the harbor. Wicked. Cool.

When the Maquoit II makes its final turn around at Cliff Island, you might find it hard to imagine heading back to reality. Maybe Dad wants to hop on the Sunset Run cruise and keep going. We wouldn’t blame him. There’s nothing better than adventure with family. Happy cruising!

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