Enjoyed Portland Despite the Weather

[Trish Traveler]

This is the Portland review from our complete cruise review listed above.

 

PORTLAND, ME - It was a chilly, overcast morning, but we packed clothes similar to an Alaskan cruise and wore layers, with extra rain gear in our backpack. We had pre-booked an independent tour company, Portland Discovery Tours, City & Lighthouse Tour (1hr/45min).  This is an easy walk off port right in town.  We first stopped for pictures at the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad.  Then we walked about 10-15 minutes to the Long Wharf to meet our tour.  Also located here is a cute love lock display and part of the Berlin Wall.  We enjoyed this tour in a small trolley, learning the basic history and seeing the key highlights of Portland, including some beautiful Victorian mansions.  We then crossed a bridge to reach the beautiful Portland Head Light (Maine’s oldest lighthouse) where we had about 20 minutes for photos.  You can walk to the right where there is a gate to access the rocks to get another stunning view of the scenic lighthouse.  Perfect tour to get acquainted with Portland and visit the lighthouse.

 

After that we went across the street to join the line for the famous potato based Holy Donuts and nice hot coffee to warm us up.  Delicious.  We strolled the town along Commercial Street enjoying all the scenic sights and shops, taking photos along the way.  We really enjoyed Exchange Street and cobblestoned Wharf Street (although many pubs where closed here).  We then returned via Commercial Street, but on the water side where all the wharfs are.  Although we didn’t see any live lobsters being brought in on boats, we saw lots of lobster boats, traps and buoys along the way.  Love the New England feel to this place.  Many opportunities to get a lobster meal, although we did not as the weather was now a bit drizzly, and we would have preferred an outdoor setting.  We did stop in a pub for an Alagash Beer and Blueberry Ale, both brewed in Maine.  It was now umbrellas up time to head back to the ship for a late lunch.   Would love to return someday and explore Portland in better weather and when the fall colors have arrived.  

[Trish Traveler]

[mets123]

We were just there today on the Adventure. It's nice but not as nice as it was 3-4 years ago. Commercial St is losing its quaintness. There's too many condos and hotels being built.

[mets123]

Continued.... The mom and pop stores are being replaced by chain stores, or being sold and knocked down and being replaced by high rises.