Table Of Content
You can easily explore the city on foot or take advantage of local transportation options like buses and taxis. Whether you’re interested in history, art or food, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. As you step off the ship at the Portland Maine Cruise Port, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of Casco Bay and the iconic lighthouse. The location and map of Portland, Maine Cruise Port make it easy to explore the city’s top attractions. Another must-try experience for seafood lovers is a lobster boat cruise. These cruises depart from the Maine State Pier and take visitors out onto Casco Bay to see how lobsters are caught in their natural habitat.
Bus Service
Nestled on a picturesque seascape, the city is perched on a peninsula jutting out into the island-studded Casco Bay, protected from the Atlantic Ocean. The Portland Head Light is one of the most famous, having stood on the lonely, rocky peninsula of Fort Williams Park since 1791. Visit the museum in the former Keeper’s Quarters to learn about the history of the light and see displays of navigational aids and old photographs. After your tour, you can hike the coastal trails in the park, taking in magnificent views as waves pound the rocks. Larger cruise ships dock at the Maine State Pier (also known as the Portland Ocean Terminal) or the Ocean Gateway Terminal, which is located near Casco Bay Ferry Lines.
Explosion reported on small cruise ship in Maine's Portland Harbor - CTV News
Explosion reported on small cruise ship in Maine's Portland Harbor.
Posted: Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Amazing experiences coming soon.
Guests can even help haul up traps before enjoying a freshly cooked lobster lunch on board. In addition to shopping and dining, visitors can also enjoy the arts scene in Portland. The city is home to numerous galleries and museums showcasing local talent. For example, the Portland Museum of Art features collections ranging from contemporary works to historic pieces by Maine artists. Large cruise ships dock either at the Portland Ocean Terminal, which is also known as the Maine State Pier, or the Ocean Gateway Terminal.
Conveniently Located Near Popular Tourist Attractions
For beer lovers, there are plenty of breweries near the terminal that offer tours and tastings. One popular option is Shipyard Brewing Company – they’ve been brewing craft beer in Portland for over 25 years and offer daily tours of their facility. The train ride is an excellent way to get a feel for Portland’s unique character and charm. Eventide Oyster Co. is a trendy spot that serves up one of the best lobster rolls in town. Their signature brown butter roll features warm chunks of juicy lobster meat tossed in an herb-infused brown butter sauce and served on a soft steamed bun. One of the most popular ways to enjoy lobster in Portland is by trying a lobster roll.
It is only about a 25 minute drive by car, or you can take the Metro Breeze to Freeport which will take about 50 minutes. The port had once been a major shipbuilding center and one of the busiest fishing ports on the Atlantic. Unfortunately, this success also made the port a target for the British during the War of 1812. The coastline still has many of the forts that were built to protect the city. Walking also allows visitors to discover hidden gems such as street art murals, historic buildings, and quaint neighborhoods that might have been missed if traveling by car or bus.
11 best cruises to Canada and New England - The Points Guy
11 best cruises to Canada and New England.
Posted: Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
The Portland Maine Cruise Port is conveniently located near downtown Portland, allowing visitors easy access to local shops and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood or unique souvenirs, you’ll find it all within walking distance of the port. Immerse yourself in the thriving arts and culinary scene, with renowned craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and lively art galleries. Explore the historic Old Port district, visit the Portland Head Light, or take a ferry to the picturesque Casco Bay Islands. Portland offers a delightful mix of culture, gastronomy, and coastal charm. From the cruise terminals, you’re within walking distance to downtown Portland and all its popular neighborhoods, including the Old Port shopping district and the Arts District.
Lighthouse Tour
The terminals are located adjacent to Commercial Street, which runs alongside the waterfront and features restaurants, quaint shops and fishermen at work. A visitor information booth is located just outside the cruise terminal, where you can pick up city maps. The historic port was once a major shipbuilding center, as well as one of the busiest fishing ports on the Atlantic as far back as the 18th century. Its success as a port made it a prime target for the British during the War of 1812 and also for the Confederates during the Civil War. The coastline and islands are still dotted with forts that were built to protect the city. Ironically, during an Independence Day celebration in 1866, a firecracker ignited a fire that quickly spread across the city's east end, destroying 1,800 buildings.
Best Shore Excursions for Visitors to Portland Maine Cruise Port
You can explore beautiful Casco Bay on the local ferry service, Casco Bay Lines; ferries depart from their own terminal, around 15 minutes’ walk from where cruise ships dock. Located in the northeastern part of the United States, Portland Maine cruise port offers visitors stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding islands. The city’s charming cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vibrant food scene make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Cruises to Portland, Maine
One popular option is a lighthouse tour that takes guests along the coast to visit several historic lighthouses, including Portland Head Light. The Portland Maine Cruise Port is located in the heart of downtown Portland, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the city. It is situated on the western edge of Casco Bay and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands. If you are driving to the port, there are several parking options available nearby. Join a guided cycle ride along Portland’s beautiful Eastern Promenade Trail, with wonderful views of the beaches and rocky shoreline. You’ll pass Bug Light, the smallest coastal lighthouse in the U.S., and take in views of Casco Bay and Fort Georges.
In 2018, the port handled total 32 ship calls (23% over 2017) and around 39,000 passengers. No trip to Portland is complete without indulging in some fresh seafood. There are many places where you can find the best lobster in town such as Eventide Oyster Company or J’s Oyster Bar.
You can easily take a taxi or shuttle service from the airport to get to your ship. Alternatively, if you are staying in one of the many hotels near the airport, you can arrange for transportation directly from your hotel. If you’re looking for things to do while in Portland itself, there are plenty of options available. Art galleries like the Portland Museum of Art showcase works from local artists as well as internationally renowned pieces. The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine offers interactive exhibits that are perfect for families with young children. But Portland isn’t just a great place to start your vacation – it’s also a gateway to other popular destinations in Maine.
If you need to visit a pharmacy, this is the closest to the cruise terminal, located at the corners of Congress and Hampshire Streets. Both its flag and city seal depict a Phoenix, wings outstretched, clutching an inverted wreath. Almost 6 million visitors a year come to the greater Portland area. With much to see and do and good food and shopping, Portland is thriving.
This tower was built in 1807 as a way for ship captains to keep an eye on incoming vessels. Today, visitors can climb to the top of the observatory for stunning views of the city and harbor. Cruise visitors may find that taking a general tour is a good option for seeing everything that Portland and the surrounding area have to offer.
No comments:
Post a Comment