Not everyone wants to sail, and a private scenic cruise offers an easier way to see the coast: a powered boat, a captain, comfortable seats and a route that suits your group. The cruise is offered with a choice of daytime or sunset departure, which gives you flexibility to match your plans. Daytime cruises show the coast at its brightest, with clear views of the rocky shore, the beaches, the lobster boats and the summer houses along Ocean Avenue, while sunset cruises add color and calm. Because it is private, you can choose the pace, ask the captain to linger where you like and decide how much narration you want. It is a good option for families with children, groups that include people who prefer not to heel over in a sailboat, and visitors who want a comfortable seat and a steady ride. Cruises operate in good weather, and the route varies with sea conditions.
What to expect
You meet the captain at the dock, board and head out along the Kennebunk River and into open water, where the captain points out features along the shore. Typical sights include the Bush family compound on Walker's Point, the rocky ledges at Cape Arundel, the long Kennebunk beaches, and the approaches to Cape Porpoise and Goat Island Light.
Wildlife such as seals, cormorants and gulls may appear, but they are never guaranteed. A powered boat covers more distance than a sailboat in the same time, so you can see more of the coast, which is an advantage on a short outing.
Planning
Choose a daytime departure for photographs and good visibility, or a sunset departure for romance and cooler air. Dress in layers, with a windproof jacket and sun protection, and bring a hat that will not blow away. Ask about the maximum group size, child policies and whether food and drink may be brought aboard. Prices for private charters are higher than shared cruises, so consider whether the number of people in your party makes it good value. Weather matters, so check the cancellation policy and keep dates flexible.
Who it suits
Families, multigenerational groups, couples, celebrations and anyone who prefers a private, steady ride. If you want a quieter and more traditional experience, look at the sailing options, and if you want to save money, consider a shared sail. After the cruise, a walk through Dock Square or an early dinner by the river finishes the outing nicely.
Extra tips
Confirm the departure point and arrival time, because meeting arrangements for private charters differ by operator. Bring a camera with a long lens if you like wildlife photography, and a small dry bag for phones and keys. If anyone in your party is prone to seasickness, choose a calm day, sit amidships and look at the horizon. Tell the captain about any mobility concerns before boarding.
Comparing the cruise with a sail
A motor cruise is quicker to reach distant sights, steadier in chop and easier for guests who do not want to sit on a tilted deck, while a sail is quieter and more traditional. Many families choose the cruise for grandparents and small children and the sail for couples. Whichever you pick, a clear day with light wind gives the best views, and a bit of sea fog can make the coast look mysterious rather than spoiled.
What to expect
The experience
A private motor cruise along the Kennebunkport shoreline with a choice of daytime or sunset departure.
Best time
Calm, clear days from late spring to early autumn.
How long
Around two hours on the water.
Tips
Choose daytime for photographs or sunset for color, and dress in layers.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and groups who want a steady, private ride along the coast.
- Families
- A comfortable choice for children and grandparents.
- Couples
- A romantic option at sunset.
- Pair with
- Dock Square dinner or a walk on Gooch's Beach.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours with boarding.
Good questions
Can I choose daytime or sunset?+
Yes, the cruise is offered with both options. Choose when you reserve.
Is it private?+
Yes, it is a private cruise for your party. Check the capacity.
What will I see?+
The shoreline, beaches, headlands, lobster boats and summer houses, and possibly seals or seabirds.
Is it good for seasickness?+
A powered boat is steadier than a sailboat, but choose a calm day and sit near the middle.
What if weather is poor?+
Ask about rescheduling when you reserve, as operators cancel for unsafe conditions.