- All Ages
- 1.5 Hours
This epic tour is the best way to take in the historic lighthouses, stone forts, and rocky islands that make Casco Bay a world-renowned destination.
Quick Details
Private Island and Fort Tour – Discover the Historic Fort Scammel with SeaPortland
At SeaPortland, we are happy to offer a truly unparalleled experience with our Private Island and Fort Tour. With access to Fort Scammel on House Island, a historic site that is privately owned and was inaccessible to the public for decades, this is a tour you won’t find anywhere else in Portland! You’ll have the chance to explore the unique architecture, masonry, and preserved ruins of the fort, with its catacombs-style underground passages and French influences.
In addition to its historical significance, Fortland’s ethos of light touch, solar power, and composting toilets showcases our commitment to preserving the history and natural beauty of the island. The tour also provides breathtaking views of the harbor, lighthouses, and other scenic attractions, making it a perfect adventure for families to create lasting memories.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience with SeaPortland. Book your Private Island and Fort Tour now and embark on an adventure like no other. Thank you for considering SeaPortland for your tour experience. We look forward to welcoming you on board!
Quick Tour Details
- This tour Lasts about two hours.
- One canned beverage is included with your ticket.
- Alcoholic beverages are available to passengers over 21.
- This is an opportunity to explore the private House Island and historic Fort Scammel.
- This tour is appropriate for all ages.
- Kids will enjoy a scavenger hunt on the island, and we provide flashlights to explore the fort.
Tour Highlights
As we embark on our Private Island and Fort Tour, you will have the chance to witness the beauty of Casco Bay and its iconic landmarks. Our route takes us through the harbor, passing by notable lighthouses such as Bug Light, and Spring Point Lighthouse, as well as the historic Fort Gorges. The panoramic views of the bay, including Halfway Rock and White Head Passage, are sure to leave you mesmerized as we make our way to House Island.
House Island, home to Fortland (Fort Scammel), is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty. The island is known for its impressive masonry architecture, with well-preserved ruins that offer a glimpse into the past. The underground tunnels, reminiscent of catacombs with French influences, are a unique feature of Fortland, showcasing its rich history and military significance. As you explore the island, you’ll be captivated by its natural rocky coast and vegetative elements, providing a picturesque backdrop for your adventure.
Fortland’s ethos is one of sustainability, with solar-powered facilities and composting toilets that emphasize its commitment to preserving the environment and history. The island also offers a fun and educational scavenger hunt for kids, complete with a lantern, providing an exciting adventure that is both engaging and informative. Families can make lasting memories as they uncover the island’s secrets and learn about its intriguing past.
Inclusions and Pricing
Our Private Island and Fort Tour includes one local craft beverage per person for adults, giving you a taste of the region’s unique flavors. Must be 21+ to enjoy. For the kids, we provide a scavenger hunt, a flashlight for exploring the fort, and a juice box or water, ensuring that everyone in the family has a memorable experience. With its unparalleled offerings, including exclusive access to Fortland, breathtaking views of Casco Bay, and engaging activities for all ages, SeaPortland’s Private Island and Fort Tour provides excellent value for an unforgettable experience.
About Fortland & Fort Scammel
Explore the captivating history and breathtaking beauty of Casco Bay’s stone fortresses with Fortland’s exclusive Private Island and Fort Scammel Tour. Embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure that takes you from Portland to Fort Scammel on House Island, where you can experience the unique architecture, natural rocky coast, and stunning views of the harbor and surrounding islands. This tour is perfect for families, offering a fun and educational experience for kids with a scavenger hunt and lantern exploration of the fort.
Uncover the Rich History of Fort Scammel
Fort Scammel on House Island is the only fort in Portland Harbor that has seen active combat, and SeaPortland is the only company that can take you there. With Fortland’s Private Island and Fort Scammel Tour, you can now explore this historically significant site that was once privately owned and inaccessible to the public. Learn about the French influences in the fort’s catacombs-style underground, marvel at the preserved ruins and brick archways, and discover how the fort was abandoned over 140 years ago yet remains remarkably preserved by neglect. Fortland’s ethos is to preserve the history of the fort while also practicing sustainability with solar power and composting toilets.
A Scenic and Educational Adventure for the Whole Family
The Private Island and Fort Scammel Tour is not just for history enthusiasts, but also for families looking for a unique and enriching experience. As you cruise through the harbor towards House Island, you will pass by iconic lighthouses, including Preble Light, Bug Light, and Spring Point Lighthouse. Once on House Island, kids can enjoy a scavenger hunt with a flashlight to explore the fort, while adults can indulge in a local craft beverage, included in the tour. Fortland’s tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, education, and fun for the whole family.
Stunning Views and Natural Beauty
In addition to the historical significance of Fort Scammel, the island also offers breathtaking views of the harbor, halfway rock, and white head passage next to crushing rock. The natural rocky coast of the island provides a unique and picturesque backdrop for your tour, with opportunities to spot ospreys and other migratory birds that call the island home seasonally. Fortland’s Private Island and Fort Scammel Tour is not just a journey through history, but also a chance to immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of Casco Bay.
Don’t Take Our Word For It
Wonder what our past guests have to say? Check out these past reviews!
“We did an island tour to Fort Scammel. Everything was amazing!!! Really great crew, very informative and knowledgeable. We had a blast. Thank you!”
–Nicole Araujo, 2022
“Awesome tour of the fort and a great selection of local beers and other drink options. Very informative, friendly and engaging guide and captain. Will absolutely do another with Sea Portland.”