Great guys - went out with my husband and our two boys and another family. Got to see some ship wrecks, and the cool old fort. They definitely paid attention to weather, currents and the boats/ships in the bay - enough to make us feel safe under their guidance, but not too much for comfort either. We don't normally do guided anything, but I was happy to have a group of kayaks together when paddling around the bay that had quite a few boats out (it was early July and pretty busy on the water). Definitely worth it!
I go to Peaks Island at least once, usually twice, each year. Only 2 years ago I discovered this trip. It was my first time ocean kayaking, but Joe taught us everything we needed to know to get going. He's not only a kayak guide, but a great tour guide who knows much about all the little islands, the fauna, the forts, you name it. Nice guy too! And should you be worried...on my last trip I went with my niece who became fatigued towards the end of the excursion & just couldn't paddle effectively anymore. Joe tied her kayak to his & he proceeded to paddle them both around like it was no big deal. I always felt like I was in good hands before (he really studies the weather & tides & knows this bay), but now I know I am! If you like kayaking, DO THIS!!!
Our son+ girlfriend were coming home from NJ for a weekend visit and we wanted to plan something fun to do! Sea kayaking was something none of us had experienced, so off we went. First a phone call to reserve our day and time. Very friendly people to talk to and he answered all the questions ( you can check the website for things you will want to bring) Then a ferry ride to Peaks Island (only like 15 min ride) but check the ferry schedule for times.Gregg met us when we got off the ferry (paddle in hand!) and we walked to the beach to get instructions. Great info for anyone-even if you've been before. Our party of 8 (4 tandum kayaks) had a great time! 3 had never been in a kayak before!This was a relaxing guided tour around Peaks Island, Fort Gorges, & House Island. We all had a great day! Thank you to Gregg who was a great guide and lots of fun! We will be doing this again!
Half-day trip with Joe was outstanding! We visited shipwrecks, saw osprey & seals, circled one island, then landed on a civil war fort (Ft. Gorges) to briefly stretch our legs & explore (a major, 3 story structure that’s surprisingly intact). Fort was amazing! Lots of local knowledge & color. Joe met us right when we got off the Peaks Island Ferry (beautiful, inexpensive 15 min ferry ride from Downtown Portland), and made sure we all had hydration & had a bathroom break before heading out. He also, very kindly, let me hand off my camera so he could snap a few photos of our paddling. Also offered great info on spending the rest of the day on Peaks Island (where to eat, swim, shop, rent bikes, and more). I enjoyed the trip so much that I scheduled a return trip w/my son a few weeks later. Highly recommended – I’ll be back again, for sure, when I return to Portland.
Had a great time Kayaking Casco bay with our tour guide Den. Den was very informative of the area and wildlife. We learned about Lobsters, whales, birds, boats and ships! Not to mention he taught us the basics of kayaking. It was a calm and peaceful. Very educational and fun. Professional company with friendly and educational staff. Great experience for first time kayakers.
Thanks for your review. I'm sorry that you didn't hit it off with Gregg, he's generally well liked and is very safety conscious and has nearly 20 years experience guiding sea kayaks. I do appreciate you letting me know about "pleading for tips." Guides appreciate a gratuity if they go out of their way to make you day special BUT IT IS NOT EXPECTED and you should never feel obligated.
From the first time I spoke to Joe to set things up, to our guide Gregg, to the actual kayaking experience, everything was great. Our family is mostly seasoned (lake) kayakers, and there was still plenty of adventure to offer the entire family on the Casco Bay. It was the first time our boys (11 and 15) had been in nice touring kayaks in wide open water, and they had a great time too.
When the folks running the show are great, a great experience follows. Joe and his crew are fantastic. Their knowledge of the Casco Bay and its islands is excellent - which means the tour was incredibly informative. They've been operating in this area for years - which means they know the nuances of the weather and what it means for the kayakers. And they give special attention to that balance between fun and safety - which made our trip extra memorable. What a team! We couldn't have asked for a better experience and we cannot recommend Joe and the Maine Island Company enough.
I called without a reservation. Joe was talked into taking me out as a solo. Beautiful day.I'm an experienced kayaker, but in new waters will always find a local guide. Joe was great. Took my abilities into the trip planning. During the trip He was asking "Was I alright? Do I feel comfortable paddling there?" And pointing out points of interest and paddling tips. Very Professional.