If you’re planning a trip to New England, you cannot sleep on joining one of the Maine lighthouse tours offered across the state. One of the quintessential images we have of the state of Maine, is of the collection of idyllic lighthouses dotting the coast line. In fact, the lighthouses of Maine pull in visitors all the time, on their own.
Did you know that there are 65 historical lighthouses in Maine?
Many are open to the public, some offer access to keeper’s quarters, and some host museums of lighthouses of the past. All 65 offer idyllic instagram-photo worthy shots.
That’s why so many Maine lighthouse tours exist and why so many people like to visit as many as possible.
You may be wondering if you can tour inside some of these lighthouses. Or if you have to take a boat to see a lighthouse in Maine. Some are easily accessible, while others are very difficult to get to. Some offer tours inside, while others are just relics of the past.
Whether you want to just take in the sights of the beautiful lighthouses while you sail along or you want to bike past a few while enjoying other sites, we’ve compiled a list of top-rated group tours in Maine that focus on lighthouses.
Where can I tour Maine lighthouses?
There are four distinct regions of the Maine coast where you can view lighthouses.
The Maine tourism website has a comprehensive list of lighthouses across the state. Check it out here.
Affordable Maine Lighthouse Tours:
Keep reading to find our list of best lighthouse tours in Maine – we include ways to save money on them as well for those budget-minded folk.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click my link but does not change your price. See my affiliate policy here.
Boothbay: Lighthouses & Islands Harbor Cruise
Set sail on a cruise from Boothbay Harbor and discover Burnt and Ram Island Lighthouses on a close-to-shore trip. Discover playful seals, snug coves, busy harbors, old fishin’ villages, bustling boatyards, and summer colonies along the way.
Read more about Boothbay: Lighthouses & Islands Harbor Cruise.
MONEY HACK: Use your Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card to book and earn 2% Ultimate Rewards. Then, activate Rakuten to give yourself up to 3% cash back on this tour. That’s 5% back!
Portland: Maine Lighthouses Sightseeing Cruise with Drinks
Uncover the beauty of the Portland Harbor and Casco Bay aboard the Elizabeth Grace on this sightseeing cruise from Portland. Sail past iconic lighthouses, historic forts, and rocky islands while sipping on 2 complimentary alcoholic drinks.
Read more about Portland: Maine Lighthouses Sightseeing Cruise with Drinks.
MONEY HACK: Use your Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card to book and earn 2% Ultimate Rewards. Then, activate Rakuten to give yourself up to 10% cash back on this tour. That’s 12% back!
Penobscot Bay: Historic Schooner Day Sailing Trip
Enjoy a sightseeing sailing trip aboard the Appledore II, a legendary wooden schooner. Depart from picturesque Penobscot Bay and take in Maine’s rugged coastline with its famous lighthouses, wildlife, summer estates, islands, and lobster boats.
Read more about Penobscot Bay: Historic Schooner Day Sailing Trip.
MONEY HACK: Use your Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card to book and earn 2% Ultimate Rewards. Then, activate Rakuten to give yourself up to 10% cash back on this tour. That’s 12% back!
Downtown Portland, Maine City and Lighthouse Tour-2.5 hour Land Tour
Visitors to Portland can easily miss some of Maine’s most stunning sights, since you really need a car to explore the scenic coastline. Avoid the headache of arranging your own transportation, or renting a car, on this guided tour of Portland’s must-see sights. Stop in downtown Portland, and visit three lighthouses, including Portland Head Light—an historic lighthouse perched on the rocky coast.
Read more about Downtown Portland, Maine City and Lighthouse Tour-2.5 hour Land Tour.
MONEY HACK: Use your Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card to book and earn 2% Ultimate Rewards. Then, activate Rakuten to give yourself up to 3% cash back on this tour. That’s 5% back!
Lighthouse Bicycle Tour from South Portland-Three Hours and Four Lighthouses!
Explore the lighthouses of the South Portland Greenbelt Pathway by bicycle with this guided tour. You’ll visit Bug Light, Point Ledge Light, and Portland Head Light with a local guide. You’ll also have the chance to stop at a local food truck for a lunch of lobster rolls before returning to your starting point.
Read more about Lighthouse Bicycle Tour from South Portland with 4 Lighthouses.
MONEY HACK: Use your Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card to book and earn 2% Ultimate Rewards. Then, activate Rakuten to give yourself up to 10% cash back on this tour. That’s 12% back!
That’s our list of affordable Maine lighthouse tours! Still wondering what to do in Maine on your next visit? Check out these hidden gems along the Maine coast.