Portland Recommendation?

[skis2]

We are trying to decide between two Royal Caribbean excursions that are about the same price. Would you recommend a bus ride through Kennebunkport with 1 ½ hour stop at Dock Square or visiting 3 Portland area lighthouses (Head Light, Spring Point, Bug Light)? We're just looking to get a feel for the area and see the sights. We were booked on an excursion that went to Kennebunkport with Dock Square and to the Head Light but the time has changed on that excursion so we're exploring new options.

Thanks!

[chengkp75]

We are trying to decide between two Royal Caribbean excursions that are about the same price. Would you recommend a bus ride through Kennebunkport with 1 ½ hour stop at Dock Square or visiting 3 Portland area lighthouses (Head Light, Spring Point, Bug Light)? We're just looking to get a feel for the area and see the sights. We were booked on an excursion that went to Kennebunkport with Dock Square and to the Head Light but the time has changed on that excursion so we're exploring new options.

Thanks!

 

To be honest, you'll see all three lighthouses on the way in! Seriously, Spring Point and Bug Light are right across the harbor in South Portland. They're not much to see, they're what are known as "sparkplug" lighthouses, short and squat. Portland Head is a beautiful light, and worth seeing, but not sure I'd make it the center of my visit (prejudiced, I'm from Portland). Make sure to see Ram Island Ledge light on the way in, it will be across the bay from Portland Head. I think you could see more sticking around Portland than riding a bus down to K'bunkport. In a couple of other threads, I've recommended taking the Casco Bay Ferry "mailboat" run that visits all the inhabited islands of Casco Bay, delivering mail and supplies. The skipper gives a talk during the run about each island and its unique character. It takes between 2.5-3.5 hours (depends on the amount of cargo) and is only $16pp.

[Giantfan13]

I understand the previous poster is a bit prejudice as he is from Portland, but I would rent a car and do my own thing to Kennebunkport.

 

We were there, on our own, last year and found it quite charming and picturesque. Easy to spend 3 hours there just wandering about, having lunch and enjoying what New England is all about.

Again, not that Portland isn't nice, but Portland is a city and Kennebunkport is more of a small NE town, if that is what you are looking for. Hey maybe the Bush's will be out and about and you can say Hi to them :D:D:D:D

 

Cheers

 

Len

[Hydrokitty]

To be honest, you'll see all three lighthouses on the way in! Seriously, Spring Point and Bug Light are right across the harbor in South Portland. They're not much to see, they're what are known as "sparkplug" lighthouses, short and squat. Portland Head is a beautiful light, and worth seeing, but not sure I'd make it the center of my visit (prejudiced, I'm from Portland). Make sure to see Ram Island Ledge light on the way in, it will be across the bay from Portland Head. I think you could see more sticking around Portland than riding a bus down to K'bunkport. In a couple of other threads, I've recommended taking the Casco Bay Ferry "mailboat" run that visits all the inhabited islands of Casco Bay, delivering mail and supplies. The skipper gives a talk during the run about each island and its unique character. It takes between 2.5-3.5 hours (depends on the amount of cargo) and is only $16pp.

 

We booked the Mailboat for our trip in two weeks. Can you tell me if they have restrooms on the boat? How far is the ferry terminal from the cruise ship terminal?

[chengkp75]

We booked the Mailboat for our trip in two weeks. Can you tell me if they have restrooms on the boat? How far is the ferry terminal from the cruise ship terminal?

 

Yes, there are restrooms. The ferry terminal is one block (the next pier) from the cruise terminal.

[liptastic]

We took the bus trip to Keenbunkport and that also included a boat trip. It was a great excursion really enjoyed it and then had a lunch in the town and enjoyed a walk around. Some nice shops, and it was Halloween time and it was lovely to see all the decorations. A great excursion. Jean.

[Chrissy3427]

What time does the mailboat depart, and given it takes on average 3 hours (give or take) plenty of time to return to the ship?

[chengkp75]

What time does the mailboat depart, and given it takes on average 3 hours (give or take) plenty of time to return to the ship?

 

There are two runs a day, but the 10am is the only one that would fit a cruise schedule.