Maine's Lupines, Lighthouses, and Lobsters

Duration: 5 Days | Meals Included: 4 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Maine Lupines

Maine is known as the “Land of Lupines” in June, when these stunning wildflowers transform the landscape with breathtaking bursts of color. A true sign of spring, lupines bring beauty and joy wherever they bloom. Growing wild throughout the state, these tall, graceful flowers appear in a spectacular variety of shades, including purple, pink, red, yellow, and white. As we drive from place to place, keep your eyes open for these colorful treasures lining the roadsides, filling open fields, and growing in both large clusters and small patches. Throughout the tour, you’ll have opportunities to admire these beautiful blooms up close and experience one of Maine’s most magical seasonal displays.

 

Portland Head Light

Experience one of Maine’s most iconic coastal landmarks at Portland Head Light, nestled within Fort Williams Park, along the state’s classic rocky shoreline. Commissioned by George Washington and completed in 1791, Portland Head Light is the oldest lighthouse in Maine and has guided ships safely into Casco Bay for more than 200 years. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and stunning ocean views, this historic lighthouse is considered one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States.

 

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Discover the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, one of New England’s premier horticultural destinations. Spanning more than 300 acres along Maine’s scenic coastline, it is the largest botanical garden in New England. Stroll through stunning themed gardens bursting with vibrant seasonal blooms, meander along peaceful woodland and waterfront trails, and admire inspiring sculptures and works of art thoughtfully displayed throughout the landscape. This spectacular garden oasis offers a relaxing and unforgettable experience, showcasing the natural beauty and charm of coastal Maine.

 

Boothbay Harbor Guided Sightseeing Tour

Discover the charm of Boothbay Harbor on a guided sightseeing tour through one of Maine’s most picturesque coastal towns. A local guide will bring the area to life with fascinating stories of its rich maritime heritage, from its historic working waterfront and fishing traditions to its beloved summer customs and local legends. Enjoy breathtaking views of Maine’s rugged coastline, including granite ledges, scenic offshore islands, and abundant coastal wildlife. Highlights include the Fishermen’s Memorial, Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, and the charming seaside communities of East Boothbay and Ocean Point, where historic summer cottages sit above the sparkling waters of the Atlantic. This relaxing tour offers a wonderful glimpse into the beauty, history, and character of one of New England’s most beloved seaside destinations.

 

Boothbay Harbor Boat Cruise

Sit back, relax, and enjoy a narrated scenic cruise through the picturesque waters of Boothbay Harbor. As you glide past historic lighthouses, rugged rocky shorelines, charming fishing villages, and secluded islands, your knowledgeable captain will share fascinating stories about the area's rich maritime heritage, local wildlife, and lobster fishing traditions. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, ospreys, bald eagles, and other coastal wildlife while taking in the breathtaking scenery that has made Boothbay Harbor one of Maine's most beloved destinations. This leisurely cruise offers a wonderful perspective of Maine's stunning coastline and unforgettable coastal charm.

 

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park

Perched atop Maine’s dramatic granite shoreline, Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park is one of the state’s most iconic and photographed coastal landmarks. Built in 1827, this historic lighthouse has guided mariners for nearly two centuries and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged rock formations, and waves crashing along the shore.

 

The Fishermen's Museum

The Fishermen’s Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Maine’s rich maritime and fishing heritage. Housed in the former lighthouse keeper’s house, the museum features authentic artifacts, exhibits, and tools that tell the story of the region’s hardworking coastal communities, from lobster fishing to life-saving services along the rocky shore. You can explore displays highlighting traditional fishing methods, shipwrecks, and daily life along the Maine coast, all while enjoying sweeping ocean views from this beautifully preserved historic setting.

 

Pemaquid Art Gallery

The Pemaquid Art Gallery showcases a vibrant collection of works created by talented local Maine artists. You can browse a wide variety of original pieces including paintings, photography, pottery, textiles, and handcrafted jewelry, all inspired by the natural beauty of the Midcoast region. This charming gallery offers a wonderful opportunity to meet artists, discover unique handcrafted souvenirs, and take home a piece of coastal Maine’s creative spirit.

 

Maine Maritime Museum

Located along the scenic Kennebec River in historic Bath, known as “The City of Ships,” the Maine Maritime Museum offers a fascinating look into Maine’s proud seafaring heritage and legendary shipbuilding traditions. Set on a beautiful waterfront campus, the museum features captivating exhibits, historic vessels, and interactive displays that bring centuries of maritime history to life. Explore galleries showcasing Maine’s shipbuilding legacy, lobstering traditions, navigation, and life at sea. Enjoy time to wander the waterfront grounds, take in sweeping river views, and watch the activity of nearby working shipyards.

 

Kennebec River Cruise

Set sail on a relaxing Kennebec River Cruise and experience one of Maine’s historic waterways from a unique perspective. This scenic narrated journey follows the beautiful Kennebec River, offering views of forested shorelines, peaceful coves, charming coastal communities, and working waterfronts that showcase the region’s rich maritime heritage. Along the way, enjoy fascinating stories of local history, shipbuilding traditions, wildlife, and the important role the river has played in shaping Maine’s communities for generations. With its combination of breathtaking scenery, engaging storytelling, and peaceful surroundings, this memorable cruise is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty and heritage of Maine’s coast.

 

Freeport, ME

Discover the charming town of Freeport, Maine, where classic New England character meets world-famous shopping and coastal charm. Stroll through the picturesque downtown filled with popular outlet shops, unique locally owned boutiques, inviting cafés, and delicious restaurants, all set among historic buildings and beautiful village streets. Known as a premier shopping destination and home to the iconic L.L.Bean flagship store, Freeport offers the perfect balance of small-town atmosphere and local flavor.

 

Boothbay Harbor, ME

Nestled along Maine’s rugged midcoast, Boothbay Harbor is a quintessential New England seaside village known for its charming waterfront, colorful fishing boats, and picturesque harbor views. Visitors can stroll the bustling downtown lined with unique shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants, or simply relax and watch the boats come and go in one of the East Coast’s most scenic working harbors. With its blend of maritime tradition, coastal beauty, and welcoming small-town charm, Boothbay Harbor offers an unforgettable glimpse into classic Maine coastal life.

 

Damariscotta, ME

The enchanting town of Damariscotta captures the essence of Midcoast Maine with its historic character, vibrant downtown, and deep connection to the water. Stroll along its walkable Main Street, where locally owned shops, cozy cafés, and inviting galleries line the streets against a picturesque river backdrop. Famous for its thriving oyster industry, Damariscotta offers a true taste of Maine’s coastal heritage with fresh local seafood, waterfront views, and a rich maritime tradition. This delightful village provides the perfect opportunity to slow down, explore, and experience the authentic character of Maine’s coast.

 

Portland Old Port District

The Old Port District in Portland, Maine is a vibrant waterfront neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, 19th-century brick buildings, and lively maritime atmosphere. Once a bustling commercial shipping hub, today it has been beautifully revitalized into one of New England’s most dynamic destinations. Explore unique boutiques, art galleries, and acclaimed restaurants set within historic warehouses, or enjoy the working waterfront just steps away.

 

Meal Information:

 

Dinner on day one is included at The Hilton Garden Inn Portland Jetport

Menu TBA

 

Dinner on day two is included at Boothbay Harbor Inn

Dinner is a traditional Maine Lobster Dinner.

 

Dinner on day four is included at a local restaurant

Menu TBA

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

Need to Know:

• Every Starr trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• A Starr Tour Director will accompany you on this trip.

• Baggage handling at hotels is included.

 

Accessibility:

Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Days 1 & 4: Hilton Garden Inn Portland Jetport (Portland, ME)

The hotel features an indoor pool and fitness center. Guest rooms include coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Days 2 & 3: Boothbay Harbor Inn (Boothbay Harbor, ME)

Sit back and take in the sunset as it sinks over the inner harbor. The hotel features outdoor fire pits. Guest rooms include coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, hair dryer, and iron/board.