Quiet Waters Discover the path less paddled
Story by: SAISIE MOORE Photos courtesy of Portland Paddle
There’s nothing quite like Maine summer days on the water and nights under canvas. Combine the two and you've got the recipe for an unforgettable trip. More secluded than traditional campgrounds – with the opportunity to bring a little more gear in your boat than you could backpack – paddle camping is an accessible adventure for families and beginners alike. With a little planning and knowledge, canoe and kayak camping trips grant paddlers access to some of the most secluded and idyllic camping spots in Maine.
Portland The many islands of Casco Bay make a beautiful backdrop to Portland’s city skyline. However, there’s much more here than a view – a paddling trip to one of the bay’s islands affords a whole new perspective. “Experiencing the sights and smells of the ocean 8 summer / fall | 2021
from the vantage point of a kayak is exciting enough,” said owner and co-founder Zack Anchors. “But here in Casco Bay we also have fascinating islands, forts, and lighthouses to explore” Portland Paddle orchestrates ocean adventures from the East End Beach each summer. While the busy waters of Casco Bay may look intimidating, guides are trained to lead paddlers of every ability. “Our team of guides take things to the next level. They are skilled at making sure each person has the support they need to have fun paddling on the ocean.” Day trips are available morning through sunset, but the really memorable experiences are made over multi-day adventures. “We offer a three-day trip called the Casco Bay Traverse that gives a great introduction to kayak camping on the Maine coast,” said Anchors. “There are so many islands to explore that each trip is different. That said, Jewell Island
and Whaleboat Island are two of our favorite islands for camping – with gorgeous scenery, lots of wildlife and amazing oceanside campsites.” Groups generally paddle 10 miles or less each day, though it varies a lot based on current and wind conditions. Portland Paddle guides also cook nourishing meals, so you can relax and explore the islands after coming ashore. The experience of moving with wind and water between the islands creates a profound connection that you just can’t find from a ferry or powerboat. Anchors recalled a foggy morning paddle on the bay that was etched into his memory: “There was deep silence and glassy calm waters. I heard the puffing sound of porpoises breathing through their blowholes. We spotted the triangular fins of the pod arching above the waterline nearby, just as an osprey dove and grabbed a fish from the water.”
