Maine’s rugged coastlines, shimmering lakes, and charming towns make it a prime destination for exploring via guided tours. Whether you’re craving the thrill of soaring over mountain lakes in a seaplane, uncovering the stories behind historic shipyards, or relaxing on a schooner cruise along the coast, Maine offers experiences that go beyond the usual sightseeing. We love the Rangeley Lakes Region Seaplane Tour for its breathtaking aerial views, and the Schooner Applejack Sunset Sail for a relaxing evening on the water. Each tour provides an authentic taste of Maine’s natural beauty and maritime spirit.
Quick Overview
Maine’s top tours include scenic flights, historic walking adventures, coastal sailing, and culinary explorations. From flying over lakes and mountains to tasting local seafood and exploring the streets of Bath or Eastport, there’s something for all. Some tours focus on nature and wildlife, like moose sightings from above (Rangeley Lakes Seaplane) or boat sightings while sailing (Eastwind 2-Hour Day Sail), while others dive into history and culture, such as the Downtown Bath walking tour. Below, you’ll find detailed reviews of each to help you choose the perfect Maine experience.
1. Rangeley Lakes Region Seaplane Tour
At number 1, this 30-minute seaplane flight offers a bird’s-eye view of Maine’s rugged wilderness. Fly over the Rangeley Lakes region, spotting lakes, rivers, and mountains, with a chance to see moose along Richardson Lake. The pilot guides you over Rangeley and Mooselookmeguntic lakes, famous for trout and salmon, then glides by Upper Dam for a closer look at Maine’s dam system. The highlight is scanning the beaches and coves for moose — an elusive but unforgettable sight.
Guests rave about the expert pilot, like John, who “tried hard to sight a moose” and still found the scenery “awesome.” Priced at $179 per person, the tour offers a rare perspective on Maine’s wilderness without breaking the bank. Morning or afternoon departures are available, making it flexible for your schedule. The view from above is the true star here, giving you an appreciation for Maine’s lakes and mountains that’s tough to match.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and those craving a quick, spectacular flight with wildlife viewing at the top of the list.
2. Downtown Bath, Maine and The City of Ships Walking Tour
Number 2 on our list is a small-group walking tour that takes you through Maine’s historic “City of Ships.” In 1 hour 30 minutes, your guide, Meg, shares stories of Bath’s 400+ years of maritime craftsmanship and introduces you to iconic sights like Maine’s First Ship — a replica of the 1607 Virginia. You’ll also explore Winter Street Center and the grand 19th-century Customs House, all while absorbing the town’s vibrant past.
Guests consistently praise Meg’s engaging storytelling and her ability to bring history alive. For just $30, this tour offers a detailed look at the architecture, characters, and maritime legacy that built Bath’s identity. It’s a perfect introduction for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. Plus, it complements nearby attractions like the Maine Maritime Museum for a fuller experience.
Bottom Line: A must-do for anyone interested in Maine’s shipbuilding history and the character of small coastal towns.
3. Hidden Harbor E Bike Tour of Boothbay Harbor
The third spot is an e-bike adventure that covers historic Boothbay byways in about 2.5 hours. Starting with bike fitting and safety instruction, you’ll pedal past Appalachee Pond, hearing stories of Maine’s mysterious Red Paint People. You’ll visit Linekin Bay Resort, a historic camp turned luxury destination, and see the last large coastal lodge built before the Depression at Sprucewold.
Tour guide Kevin is highly praised for his knowledge and friendly attitude. For $85, you get a scenic ride with a mix of history, nature, and luxury resort views, including iconic sights like the Kennedy family’s favorite Spruce Point Inn. The bikes are comfortable, and the route is manageable for most fitness levels, making it accessible for families or casual riders.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want a mix of natural scenery and local stories with a bit of history.
4. Joy Ride E-Bike Tour of Boothbay Harbor
Number 4 offers a 2-hour e-bike tour combining art and scenery. It starts at Villard Studios, where Kim and Philippe Villard’s stunning woodblock prints show Maine’s coast in a different light, then winds through Sprucewold neighborhood and along the coastline of Lobster Cove. The route hugs the shoreline, offering spectacular views of outer harbor islands and lighthouses.
Guide Lisa makes the experience informative and fun, sharing behind-the-scenes stories about local artists. For $85, this tour is ideal for art lovers and those wanting a leisurely ride with plenty of photo opportunities. You’ll also visit the historic Spruce Point Inn Resort, once a Kennedy favorite.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in art, coastal scenery, and a relaxed pace.
5. Schooner Applejack Sunset Sail Tour in Boothbay Harbor
Our number 5 pick is a classic sunset sail aboard the historic schooner Applejack. Starting in Boothbay Harbor, you’ll help hoist sails and take turns at the wheel as the boat slips past Burnt Island Light and Squirrel Island. Keep an eye out for porpoises, osprey, and seals as the sun dips below the horizon.
Guests describe the experience as “beautiful,” with Captain Kate and crew making everyone feel part of the adventure. For just $59.95, this two-hour cruise offers an authentic maritime experience and stunning views of the coast. It’s ideal for a romantic evening or a relaxed activity with friends.
Bottom Line: A timeless Maine experience—great for couples or anyone wanting to unwind on the water at sunset.
6. Schooner Eastwind 2 Hour Day Sail in Boothbay Harbor
Number 6 is a daytime sailing trip on the Schooner Eastwind, rated 4.5 stars. Starting from the center of Boothbay Harbor, this two-hour trip takes you past working lobster boats, remote islands, and lighthouses. The attentive crew aims to give you a relaxing sail, with opportunities for photos and wildlife sightings like seals and dolphins.
The experience is highly praised for its authenticity and friendly crew, with reviews noting how participants enjoyed raising the sails and the informative commentary on local marine life. Priced at $54.95, it’s a good value for a traditional Maine schooner cruise.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those wanting a genuine sailing experience with wildlife watching and scenic views.
7. Boothbay Harbor Culinary Walking Tour
Number 7 is a food lover’s dream—a 2 to 3-hour walk through Boothbay Harbor’s locally owned restaurants and shops. For $159.99, you’ll sample Maine’s coastal cuisine, from seafood to specialty treats, at various venues. Your guide, Lauren, shares stories of the area’s fishing, lobstering, and culinary heritage.
Guests consistently say it’s a fun, flavorful way to learn about Maine’s food culture without sitting in a crowded restaurant. It’s perfect for foodies, or travelers who want to combine sightseeing with tastings. The tour concludes with enough food to serve as a satisfying lunch.
Bottom Line: A delicious way to explore Boothbay Harbor and its local culinary scene—ideal for those who love good food and local stories.
8. Mountain Explorer Seaplane Tour Rangeley
Number 8 offers a 1 hour 15 minutes aerial adventure over Maine’s Rangeley Lakes. From the water, you’ll see lakes, ponds, and mountains, with a focus on spotting moose and other wildlife. The flight includes water landings on remote ponds, making it an active, scenic experience.
Rated 5.0 stars, travelers love the expert pilot and the chance to see Maine’s wilderness from a unique angle. For $265, this is the most comprehensive aerial tour on our list, suited for those who want an immersive experience of Maine’s rugged landscape.
Bottom Line: Best for wildlife watchers and fans of scenic flights seeking a longer, more detailed aerial adventure.
9. Historic Bath Maine Neighborhood Walking Tour
Number 9 is a 1.5-hour neighborhood walk through Bath’s Washington Street Historic District. For $32.50, you’ll learn about the grand mansions of shipbuilders and sea captains, and see federal, Greek Revival, and Queen Anne architecture. Your guide, Meg, shares stories about local personalities and the town’s maritime past.
Guests appreciate the personalized storytelling and the chance to see museum-quality architecture. It’s a relaxed yet informative tour perfect for history and architecture fans or travelers looking for a short but meaningful experience.
Bottom Line: Small, in-depth tour ideal for architecture buffs and those wanting a leisurely stroll.
10. Ride in comfort
Number 10 provides dependable transportation in the Bangor area. Priced at just $5 per group, it’s perfect for travelers needing reliable rides to airports, hotels, or trailheads. Pre-booking ensures prompt service, with friendly drivers like Hunter providing local insights.
While not a sightseeing tour, it’s a practical service for making sure your Maine trip runs smoothly. Reviews highlight Hunter’s friendly, professional service as a significant plus.
Bottom Line: Essential for logistical needs, especially if you want stress-free travel between attractions.
11. Spooks and Spirits Walking Ghost Tour of Boothbay Harbor
Number 11 is a 1.5-hour ghost walk exploring Boothbay Harbor’s haunted past. For $30, you’ll hear stories of Maine’s most haunted buildings, UFO sightings, and ghostly legends, all from a lively guide. Highlights include the Opera House and Neat whiskey bar, where stories come to life.
Guests love the mix of history and mystery, with some describing the stories as “creepy but fun.” It’s a great option for those interested in supernatural tales and local lore.
Bottom Line: Fun for thrill-seekers and those curious about Maine’s spooky side, especially after dark.
12. Schooner Eastwind 2 Hour Day Sail
Our number 12 offers a relaxed daytime sail that features lighthouses, wildlife, and remote islands. Rated 4.5 stars, it’s a great choice for families or anyone wanting a peaceful cruise. The crew is praised for their friendly service, and the experience offers photo ops and wildlife encounters like seals and dolphins.
Priced at $54.95, this sail balances affordability with an authentic Maine maritime experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for leisurely outings and wildlife fans seeking a classic boat ride.
13. Seaplane Fly & Dine Rangeley Maine
Number 13 combines scenic flying with dinner: a private seaplane takes you over Maine’s lakes to lakeside camps for a 3-course meal. You’ll fly past lakes, rivers, and hopefully see moose along the way. The dinner is BYOB, and the camps have served hunters and adventurers for generations.
Guests note the professional pilots and the unforgettable views. For $349, this experience blends adventure and relaxation, suitable for special occasions or those wanting a unique culinary story.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, scenic, and culinary experience in Maine.
14. Paranormal Pedal E-Bike Ghost Tour of Boothbay Harbor
Number 14 combines ghost stories with an e-bike ride through Boothbay’s spooky sites. For $85, you’ll pedal through forests and coastlines, hearing tales of murder, UFOs, and haunted lodges. The tour includes stops like Mt. Pisgah, where Maine’s first recorded murder took place, and the Sprucewold Lodge, said to have “eyes” watching.
Guests describe it as “fun and intriguing,” especially for those interested in Maine’s supernatural lore. The 2.5-hour ride is slightly longer but packed with stories and scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for thrill-seekers and fans of ghost tales wanting active exploration.
15. Schooner Applejack 2-Hour Day Sail
This timeless schooner cruise is perfect for a quick 2-hour escape into Maine’s maritime world. You’ll help hoist sails and enjoy views of Burnt Island Light and outer islands. The crew’s friendly service and the scenic backdrop make it a favorite for families and couples.
Rated 4.5 stars, travelers mention the beautiful boat and relaxed atmosphere as highlights. It runs 2 hours and costs $54.95, offering excellent value for a traditional sail.
Bottom Line: Great for a short, authentic Maine sailing experience with opportunities to participate.
16. Eastport Walking Tour
Closing out the list is a 1-hour walk through Eastport’s quaint downtown. For $25, you’ll learn about the town’s lobster, sardine, timber, and boat industries. The guide points out historic buildings and shares stories about the people who shaped this coastal village.
Reviews admire the informative yet relaxed pace and the personalized insights. Perfect for travelers with limited time wanting a quick but meaningful introduction to Maine’s easternmost town.
Bottom Line: An easy, informative stroll for history and maritime enthusiasts.
How to Choose Your Perfect Maine Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and travel style. Want aerial views and wildlife? The Rangeley Lakes Region Seaplane or Mountain Explorer Seaplane are excellent options. For boat lovers, both the Schooner Applejack Sunset Sail and Eastwind Day Sail provide relaxing maritime experiences.
History buffs should check out the Bath walking tour or Eastport walking tour, while foodies will enjoy the Culinary Walking Tour. For a spooky twist, try the Ghost Tour.
Practical tips include booking early in peak season, especially for popular activities like sailing and seaplane flights, and considering your physical activity level for biking tours.
Final Thoughts
Maine offers a wide range of tours—whether you’re after spectacular aerial views, historic insights, coastal sailing, or delicious local food. For a quick thrill that captures the wilderness, the Rangeley Lakes Seaplane Tour is hard to beat. Meanwhile, for a leisurely day on the water, the Schooner Applejack Sunset Sail provides a timeless experience.
If you want a deeper dive into Maine’s history, the Bath walking tour and Eastport tour are excellent choices. For art lovers, the Villard Studios offer a creative perspective.
Remember, booking these tours early ensures you won’t miss out, especially during the busy summer months. Maine’s landscape and culture are truly worth exploring from above, on the water, or on foot—so pick what suits your interests and get ready for a memorable trip.
This complete guide aims to help you navigate Maine’s diverse tour options, making your planning easier and your experience richer. Happy adventuring!