Ways to Explore Portland, Maine and Casco Bay in a Powerboat!
Why Our Cruising Adventures Forge Unforgettable Memories
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- Intimate Settings: With a commitment to exclusivity, each of our 6 boats carries no more than 6 guests, ensuring a personalized and intimate atmosphere.
- Stellar Reputation: Boasting a remarkable 4.99 average rating based on 600 reviews across 6 online platforms, our dedication to excellence speaks volumes.
- Diverse Experiences: Explore numerous cruising adventures with our 8 types of Experiences based in the Portland and South Portland areas.
- Unmatched Exploration: Delve into the heart of Maine’s crown jewel, its rugged coastline. Seeing Portland and the surrounding Casco Bay from the water is the finest cruising location on the East Coast.This unique opportunity provides the change to discover the rich wildlife, including seals and bottle nose dolphins, active lighthouses, picturesque islands, meandering rivers, and bustling harbors.
The Boat
Step aboard Avelinda, a classic Maine-built 31-foot powerboat that offers a perfect blend of comfort, stability, and traditional charm. Avelinda provides scenic cruises from the Portland location. Designed and built in 1996 by renowned boatbuilder David Nutt, Avelinda was crafted for a Boothbay Harbor resident and has been meticulously maintained throughout the years.
With a fiberglass hull and the classic lines of a Maine lobsterboat, Avelinda is both seaworthy and stunning. She comfortably accommodates up to six passengers, providing plenty of space for relaxation and sightseeing. The boat features a fully enclosed wheelhouse, allowing passengers to find shelter if needed, as well as a functioning head (marine restroom) for added convenience. Whether cruising at a leisurely pace or making a swift passage across the bay, Avelinda offers a smooth, enjoyable ride in any weather.
Meet the Crew
Captain Douglas Goldhirsch has spent his life on the water, from small boats on the Great South Bay of Long Island, NY, to large commercial vessels. His journey began at 13 when he helped build a 20-foot powerboat with his father and brother— a boat still in the family today!
As an adult, Doug became a United States Coast Guard Licensed Mariner and worked on large sail training vessels, including time with the Sea Education Association. He then spent eight years with the Hurricane Island Outward Bound School, sailing and mentoring young people along the Maine coast.
Coming ashore, Doug owned Southport Island Marine (SIM) in Boothbay Harbor, where he built a reputation as a top-tier boatbuilder and boatyard operator. Over the years, he built several Southport 30 and Southport 21 powerboats, including Avelinda, which he has run as a charter boat for over 15 years. Doug enjoys meeting new people, sharing his knowledge of the coast, and making lasting connections with his guests. Doug leads with Nolan the Portland location.
Captain Nolan Conlin has spent his life on the water, with his passion for boating beginning at the age of 10 in his hometown of Boothbay Harbor, Maine. His dream of becoming a captain started with his first boat purchase—a well-loved 1974 Sunfish that barely stayed afloat. By the age of 12, he had joined the Boothbay Harbor High School Sailing Team, where he refined his skills and developed a deep respect for the sea.
Nolan’s extensive experience navigating Maine’s waters, combined with his enthusiasm for sharing the beauty of Casco Bay, makes him an exceptional guide for your maritime adventure. His knowledge of the area’s history, landmarks, and wildlife ensures a tour that is as informative as it is breathtaking. Nolan co-leads with Doug the Portland location.
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