6 Fun and Relaxing Summer Cruises in Maine

When summer rolls around, there's no better way to beat the heat and soak up the scenery than by hopping on a cruise along the coast of Maine – and Maine has a lot of coastline. With a variety of cruise options that cater to all tastes and ages, you’re pretty much locked and loaded whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or just looking to relax with a lobster roll and cocktail in hand. Here are some of the most fun and laid-back cruise options available this summer in Maine.

1. Lobster Boat Tours

What's a trip to Maine without indulging in our most famous seafood delicacy? Lobster boat tours are a quintessential Maine experience, offering not just a taste of fresh lobster, but also a peek into the life of a lobsterman. VisitMaine.com has a list of lobster boat tours, with many letting you roll up your sleeves and haul in traps. You'll get to learn about the lobster industry, get the official hands-on experience, and maybe even bring home dinner, not to mention soaking in all of the scenic views of Casco Bay.

2. Whale Watching

You can’t go wrong setting sail on a whale-watching cruise. Maine's coastal waters are loaded with marine life. US News recently released the four best whale watching tours in Maine, offering trips that take you out to prime whale-feeding grounds. Bring your camera and be ready for an unforgettable experience. Dolphins, seals, and puffins often join the show, making it a pretty awesome marine safari.

3. Scenic Lighthouse Cruises

Maine's coastline is dotted with historic lighthouses, each with its own story and charm. If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, it doesn’t get much better than a scenic lighthouse cruise to explore these iconic structures. According to Maine Tourism, there are currently 65 of them throughout the state. They also put a list together of several lighthouse tours with all the stunning views you would expect.

4. Sunset Sails

Staying on the theme of relaxation and a perfect date for a summer evening, the sunset sails in Maine are jaw-dropping. Just picture the calming waves, setting sun, and coastal breeze. Viator.com has an updated list of some of the best sunset cruises in Maine. It’s a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring with a drink in hand and the sun sinking below the horizon.

5. Island-Hopping Adventures

Maine’s coast is loaded with beautiful islands, each offering their own unique landscapes. Island-hopping cruises allow you to explore several of these gems in one trip. Casco Bay Lines offers day trips to islands like Peaks, Long, and Chebeague. You can spend the day hiking, biking, or lounging on the beach. Some cruises even offer themed trips, like music cruises and brewery tours.

6. Windjammer Cruises

Looking for something totally different? Check out a windjammer cruise. These awesome, old-school sailing ships offer multi-day trips where you can live the sailor life. With the Maine Windjammer Association, you can spend several days sailing the seas, helping hoist the sails, and learning some cool navigation skills. Plus, you’ll feast on fresh seafood right on deck. It's like a mix of adventure, chill vibes, and a taste of nautical life.