On a cool and overcast day, we joined 51 other passengers on our shore excursion with Barbara as our guide and Dan as our driver. Barbara was quick to inform us that Maine is known as both the “shipbuilding state” and the “pine tree state”.
Portland, Maine Bus Tour
25-minute bus sightseeing tour (in-route)
As our tour group set off, we embarked on a quick bus tour of the charming neighborhoods of Portland, heading towards our first destination: Cape Elizabeth and the iconic Portland Head Light.
Portland Observatory
3-minute drive
138 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101
As we started our tour, we first passed by the Portland Observatory, which was built in 1807. It’s the only surviving tower of its kind in the United States and boasts a unique lighthouse-like shape.
Next, we passed by Old Settlers or Thrasher Cemetery, which dates back to 1658 and is South Portland’s oldest landmark. It was a great opportunity to learn more about the history of the area and appreciate its rich heritage.
General Neal Dow House
7-minute drive
Neal Dow House, 714 Congress St, Portland, ME 04102
As we made our way further up the road, we passed by the General Neal Dow House, a historic home belonging to the Father of Prohibition himself. Neal Dow was responsible for what is known today as the Maine Law, which prohibited the manufacture and sale of alcohol in the state. Today, visitors can tour the home and learn more about the life and legacy of this influential figure.
Ruske’s Tavern
3-minute drive
212 Danforth St, Portland, ME 04102, USA
On our way, we passed by Ruske’s Tavern, the oldest tavern in Portland that has been serving customers since 1892. The tavern is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
As we drove across the Casco Bay Bridge, we couldn’t help but admire the stunning view of the harbor. The sight of our cruise ship waiting for us in the distance added to our excitement and anticipation for the rest of the tour.
Portland Head Light
13-minute ride | 30 minutes free time
12 Captain Strout Cir, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107
We arrived at Cape Elizabeth to visit the Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse in Maine that was commissioned by George Washington in 1791. It’s a part of the current population of 65 lighthouses in Maine.
As we were given just half an hour of leisure time to venture out and explore the trails and minor pathways surrounding the lighthouse, we found ourselves barely able to savor the beauty of this picturesque area. Despite the time constraint, the charm of the lighthouse and its surrounding landscape was nothing short of breathtaking.
Walking Trails
Despite limited time, the walking trails around Portland Head Light provide a stunning opportunity to explore the coastline. With a rich history dating back to 1791, visitors can immerse themselves in its breathtaking surroundings, offering a variety of trails with easy to moderate difficulty.
Popular trails include the Cliff Walk, offering stunning views of the crashing waves, and the Goddard Mansion Trail, passing the ruins of an old mansion before reaching the ocean’s edge. From history buffs to nature lovers, these trails seem to offer something for everyone.
Village of Kennebunkport
45-minute drive
Kennebunkport, Maine 04046
We were soon back on the bus and headed towards the charming coastal village of Kennebunkport. Here, we were treated to a view of the stunning Federal and Victorian style homes built by wealthy sea captains and merchants in the 1700s and 1800s.
Bus Tour
30-minute bus sightseeing tour
Our tour began with a bus sightseeing tour of the area, which included a drive-by of the Historical District, the Wedding Cake House, and the beautiful Kennebunkport beaches.
One of the highlights of our tour was passing by the picturesque Walker’s Point, which is the summer residence of the Bush family, including former President George W. Bush. It was a surreal experience to see the house in person, and we couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe as we drove by.
Dock Square
1-hour, 30-minute free time
Dock Square, Kennebunkport, ME
After our bus tour, we were dropped off in the center of Kennebunkport for some free time. Unfortunately, since it was winter, most of the local businesses such as art galleries and antique shops were closed. To make matters worse, it started to rain, and dusk fell early.
Notwithstanding, we maximized our time exploring the town by foot before ultimately retreating into a snug eatery to satiate our hunger and reinvigorate our spirits.
Federal Jacks
3-minute walk
8 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043
We chose Federal Jack’s, a renowned brewpub, as our go-to spot for a light dinner and drinks, and it appeared that most of our fellow tour companions had the same notion. Founded in 1992 by the Shipyard Brewing Company, it has since become an iconic establishment, celebrated for its craft beers and delectable seafood cuisine.
The brewery is named after “Federal Jack,” the moniker given to Captain Christopher Jones, who helmed the Mayflower, the ship that carried the first Pilgrims to the United States.
Federal Jack’s boasts a rich legacy of brewing beer on its premises and is credited with pioneering the introduction of the earliest American-style India Pale Ales (IPAs) in the craft beer realm.
Our experience at the venue was nothing short of exceptional, relishing in a mouth-watering feast of warm pretzels and roast beef sandwiches.
Federal Jack’s is renowned not only for its award-winning beers but also for its inviting and laid-back atmosphere, offering stunning vistas of the Kennebunk River.
Return to Port of Portland
40-minute drive
Ocean Gateway Pier, Portland, ME 04101
After finishing our meal at Federal Jack’s, we made our way back to the bus as our shore excursion came to an end. It had been a long day of driving, so we were looking forward to stretching our legs and getting some rest onboard the ship.
Cruise Port: Portland, Maine, US
Shore Excursion: The Best of Maine: Portland Head Light and Kennebunkport
Cruise Line/Ship: Holland America Nieuw Statendam
Tour Operator: Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours
© OceansAfoot
