Hop Aboard! See the Kennebunks From a Whole New Angle
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If you ask someone from Kennebunk or Kennebunkport how to truly take in the charm of this coastal village, they’ll likely smile and say, “Get on a boat!” And if they’re feeling playful – as Mainers often are – they might even tell you to get a little wet while you’re at it.
Truth is, they’re not wrong. Whether you’re paddling a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or cruising on a tour boat or sailboat, there’s nothing quite like seeing the Kennebunks from the water. The best views? They’re out there where the Kennebunk River meets the open ocean.
You’ll glide past the crashing waves near Blowing Cave, just a short distance from Walker’s Point – President Bush’s summer home. Rugged granite cliffs, lush green trees, and sparkling blue water create a picture-perfect coastline that feels pulled from a postcard.
As you cruise along, you’ll spot long stretches of sand like Gooch’s Beach (locals call it Kennebunk Beach) and Goose Rocks Beach beyond Cape Porpoise. And, don’t miss the view of Goat Island Light – it’s a highlight as you head out to sea.
There are plenty of ways to get on the water in Kennebunkport, and during the warmer months, boats head out daily (as long as the weather cooperates). Here are a few of the best boat tours to check out during your visit.
Ever Wonder What It’s Like on a Real Lobster Boat? Let’s Go!
A lobster boat tour is fun, especially for families. Picture yourself on a 1-1/2 hour boat cruise up the Kennebunk River past the fishing wharves, the beautiful hotel grounds and grand seaside homes, and out the breakwater to the open Atlantic.
Your friendly Rugosa Lobster Tours captain and first mate will take you on a pleasant ride past The President’s “Summer White House” at Walkers Point, inside the U.S. Coast Guard markers, and wonderful views of Goat Island Light.
You may even see a seal or porpoise popping their heads up out of the water.
Part of the tour is the hauling of a live lobster trap. If kids are on board, they will love the opportunity to see the fresh lobster and whatever else was caught.
There’s even the chance to touch the crustacean and band their big crusher claw before putting the lobster back in the water – saved from the boiling pot for another day.
The Rugosa is a 1961 classic 38-foot wooden lobster boat – a pretty red-hulled lobster boat named for Maine’s native sea roses. It departs from The Nonantum Resort and docks several times daily in season with up to 25 passengers.
Set Sail and Let the Sea Breeze Lead the Way
Sailing is magical, with the wind powering you through the mighty sea, no motor noise – just the rustle of sails. If you have your sea legs and the love of full sails and the breeze in your hair, then The Pineapple Ketch is the best sailboat tour in the Kennebunks.
Departing from The Nonantum, you board this beautiful black-hulled wooden sailboat.
A tour of the river whets your appetite as you head beyond the breakwater and watch as the gorgeous blood-red sails are hoisted and filled.
You can book a sailing trip aboard The Pineapple Ketch for two hours during the day, or sign up for the sunset tour or arrange a private sailing charter – very popular for parties, intimate weddings, and small groups.
The captain and crew might even let you hoist a sail or steer at the helm for a moment. Sailing on a schooner like The Pineapple Ketch should be on everyone’s Kennebunkport bucket list.
Grab a Paddle to Explore the Water at Your Own Pace
You can rent a kayak or canoe and paddle up and down the Kennebunk River, or try stand-up paddleboarding.
The further upriver you go – under the Dock Square Bridge, for example – the more pristine and natural the surroundings get. Paddle past Cape Arundel Golf Club (where President Bush plays golf) all the way to Picnic Rocks, Doanes Bridge, and The Landing School.
Turning around and heading out the Kennebunk River, the closer you get to the breakwater and mouth of the river, the more you will encounter boat traffic and a different kind of beauty as the outlying sea comes into view.
Just remember to stay out of the way of all boats including commercial fishing vessels, lobster boats, and pleasure boats in the main channel of the River.
For kayak and SUP rental, Kayak Excursions offers rentals and guided tours all along the Southern Maine Coast, including Kennebunk and Kennebunkport. They’ll even deliver a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to the launch place of your choosing and pick you up after your day touring.
Ever Seen a Whale Up Close? Here’s Your Chance
Whale watching tours departing from Kennebunkport, like Nick’s Chance, head out to sea for 4 1/2 hours in the open sea to Jeffreys Ledge where whale sightings are likely but not guaranteed.
If you don’t see a whale on your boat trip, the whale watch company will let you go again another day for free – kind of a rain check whale check.
Whale watching can be amazing, but it’s a long day at sea, and folks who get seasick should be warned about this.
Ready to Reel One In? Let’s Go Fishing!
There are several fishing charter outfits on the Kennebunk River that will take you out sport fishing and deep sea fishing for bass, tuna, swordfish, and striper.
For instance, F/V Nor’easter offers deep sea fishing adventures where you can reel in the big ones, while Libreti Rose Sport Fishing Charters offers a fun, personalized fishing experience.
Our advice – Pack lots of sunscreen, layers, and drinks, so even if you get skunked, you don’t get burned or parched.
If you don’t catch a fish, you can at least catch a buzz… that’s more local humah for ya. They say “Kennebunkport is a drinking village with a fishing problem.”
Boat Days Are the Best Days in Kennebunkport
Looking to spend some time out on the water? You’re in the right place!
Whether you want to relax on a scenic boat tour, rent a kayak or paddleboard for a peaceful solo adventure, or head out on a fishing or sailing trip with a local captain, there are many ways to enjoy the Kennebunk River.
From guided tours and self-guided paddleboating to peaceful cruises and exciting deep-sea charters, there’s something for every kind of water lover.
Most trips launch right from the docks in Kennebunkport or Kennebunk’s Lower Village, making it easy to soak up those salty breezes and beautiful views.
So, grab your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and make some memories on the river. “Sea” you out there, and enjoy every minute of your time in The Kennebunks!