Business Details
Scenic Boat Tours & Oyster Cruises in Damariscotta, ME
Damariscotta River Cruises is a locally owned boat tour company dedicated to providing educational and entertaining experiences on the Damariscotta River. Our tours highlight the river's renowned oyster farms, diverse wildlife, and rich history, offering guests a unique blend of natural beauty and local culture. With a fleet that includes the 49-passenger Teciani and the 6-passenger Half Shell, we cater to both large groups and intimate outings. Our private charters provide flexible itineraries, from casual sightseeing to specialized educational excursions.We partner with local experts to enhance the learning experience for school groups, ensuring each trip is both informative and memorable. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our attention to detail, from fresh oyster tastings to curated wine pairings. We operate seasonally, offering tours from spring through fall, with vacation rentals available for extended stays on the river. Our team prioritizes customer satisfaction, ensuring every guest enjoys the scenic beauty and ecological significance of Maine's oyster capital.
Services
Boat Tours
Private Charters
Oyster Tastings
School Excursions
Vacation Rentals
Highlights and features
- We offer expert-led tours with decades of local maritime knowledge.
- Our fleet includes accessible boats for groups of all sizes.
- We provide educational partnerships with marine conservation experts.
- Our private charters feature customizable itineraries and premium amenities.
- We operate seasonal tours and year-round vacation rentals on the river.
Associations and certifications
- United States Coast Guard (USCG)
Services
Boat Tours
Our 2-hour boat tours explore the Damariscotta River's oyster farms, wildlife, and history. Guests enjoy live narration, fresh oyster tastings, and scenic views of seals, eagles, and historic sites. Tours run seasonally from May through October.
Private Charters
Charter the Teciani (49 passengers) or Half Shell (6 passengers) for personalized adventures. Options include cocktail parties, wedding receptions, and educational trips with flexible itineraries and onboard catering.
School Excursions
We provide hands-on learning experiences for schools, combining oyster farming education, marine biology, and river history. Tours include expert guides and life jackets for children.
Vacation Rentals
Stay aboard the Mazu or Nebi yachts on the Damariscotta River. Rentals include kayaks, discounted tour tickets, and access to nearby hiking, fishing, and seafood dining.
Wine Tasting Cruises
Pair fresh Damariscotta oysters with curated wines during this narrated cruise. Guests learn about oyster harvesting while enjoying sommelier-selected pairings in a scenic setting.
Questions
What types of boat tours do you offer?
We offer oyster farm tours, wildlife viewing, sunset cruises, wine tastings, and educational excursions focusing on local history and ecology.
Can I charter a boat for a private event?
Yes! We offer private charters for weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and more with customizable itineraries and onboard amenities.
Are your tours educational?
Yes. Our tours include narration about oyster farming, marine life, and river history, with partnerships from local conservation experts.
Do you provide accommodations on the river?
Yes. We offer vacation rentals aboard the Mazu and Nebi yachts, sleeping 4-5 guests with kayaks and cruise discounts included.