This is an informational site only. I do not arrange tours or have any connection with any kayaking business* -- but after only a few years in sea kayaks, I have learned quite a lot about the sport and love to share what I know.
Maine is the perfect place for the sport, considering its over 7000 total miles of coastline and many harbors.
* But I do have a friend, Jon Sprague, who is a Maine Guide and can arrange custom kayak camping and day trips. Give him a call at (207) 989-4231 if you're interested!
Northeast Harbor, up Somes Sound, stopping at Valley Cove
Lamoine to Grindstone Neck
Northeast Harbor to Seal Harbor
Seal Harbor to Otter Cliffs
Anywhere in Deer Isle/Stonington
The Mt. Kineo area, Moosehead Lake
Favorite Kayaking Links
Mainesport Outfitters Camden-Rockport area rentals and guided tours.
Acadia Canoe and Kayak Company
Rentals and guided tours on Mt. Desert Island
Old Quarry (Stonington) Kayak Tours
Maine Island Kayak Company- Portland-area guided tours
Castine Kayak Tours
Maineseakayakguides.com
MaineKayak Whitewater
Coastal Kayaking Tours, Bar Harbor
Water Walker Sea Kayaks
Maineharbors.com (weather, tidal info and much more)
I have a mahogany Chesapeake Light Craft LT17 and wooden paddles by Grey Owl. (See photo below).
Some general equipment-buying tips are:
When buying your first kayak, don't be swayed by those who will try to get you into a fiberglass boat. Yes, they are flashier, but also much more expensive than the "plastic" (polyethylene) boats. Plastic boats will be much more forgiving in the case of rocky landings, and they are much more reasonable in price.
When buying your paddles, however, don't skimp--buy the lightest ones you can afford! The wisdom of this will become apparent after your first all-day expedition. Try out as much equipment as you can during your first guided tour or at a kayak symposium offered in your area.
