Old Port “Seafood Lovers” Walking Lunch Tour in Portland, Maine

If you’re heading to Portland, Maine, and have a soft spot for seafood, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a 2.5-hour adventure through the historic Old Port, blending tasty bites with fascinating local stories — all led by a knowledgeable guide. From fresh lobster rolls to chowder and craft brews, the tour offers a genuine taste of Portland’s maritime flavor.

What we love about this experience is how it combines food with education, making each stop informative and delicious. You’ll get to learn about the lobster industry straight from the experts, savor local specialties, and take home a souvenir that keeps the memory alive. We also appreciate how well-organized and friendly the whole experience seems, with small group sizes and a focus on authentic Portland flavors.

That said, one consideration is the tour’s focus on seafood, which might not suit those with dietary restrictions or preferences away from shellfish or gluten. The tour is best suited for those who love seafood, enjoy walking, and appreciate a lively, social atmosphere. If you’re eager to explore Portland’s culinary scene with a dash of local history, this tour could be perfect for you.

Key Points

• Authentic Portland flavors: Lobster rolls, chowder, and local craft beer.
• Educational insights: Learn about the lobster industry and local seafood practices.
• Small group size: Up to 14 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible experience: Includes a souvenir gift and multiple Portland hotspots.
• Great for seafood lovers: Focused on fresh catches and maritime culture.
• Ideal for casual walkers: Moderate physical activity, mostly walking along waterfronts.

An In-Depth Look at the Old Port Seafood Tour

This tour is designed for those who want a hands-on, tasty introduction to Portland’s seafood scene, paired with stories that deepen your appreciation for the city’s maritime heritage. The tour starts at Andy’s Old Port Pub, conveniently located at 94 Commercial Street, where you meet your guide for a relaxed walk through Portland’s historic waterfront district. With a duration of approximately 2.5 hours, it’s long enough to get a good taste of the city without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Old Port Waterfront

The tour kicks off with a leisurely walk around Portland’s Old Port, a lively area filled with restored brick buildings, artisanal shops, and bustling restaurants. Your guide, often someone like AJ or Timothy—both highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness—will share stories about Portland’s history, especially its famous lobster industry. From the moment you step out, you’ll notice the vibrant atmosphere, with boats bobbing in the harbor and the smell of fresh seafood in the air.

Reviewers highlight how informative and engaging guides like AJ make the experience special. One mentioned her enthusiasm for the city’s history and seafood industry, making every stop educational as well as delicious. Expect to learn about lobstermen and women, how catches are hauled from the ocean floor, and what makes Maine lobster so unique.

Lobster Roll and Seafood Chowder

The highlight for many is the tasting session. You’ll enjoy a freshly prepared lobster roll, usually packed with tender, sweet lobster meat on a soft bun, complemented by a cup of clam or seafood chowder. The tour includes local beverages—either a Maine craft beer or soda pop—so you can sip and savor while soaking in the waterfront views.

Reviewers repeatedly praise the quality of the food, mentioning that the lobster is fresh and flavorful. One wrote, “The food was delicious, and the lobster roll was the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy.” The chowder, often described as “the area’s best,” adds a comforting touch, especially on cooler days.

Additional Stops: Local Pubs, Markets, and Artisanal Shops

Beyond the main tasting, your guide will take you through a curated selection of Portland’s restaurants, pubs, markets, and specialty shops. This approach allows you to experience Portland’s diverse food scene—from casual fish shacks to more refined eateries—without the pressure of a sit-down meal.

Food and Drink Quality: Worth the Price?

At $159.99 per person, this tour packs a lot of value into its few hours. You get delicious, locally sourced seafood, crafted beverages, and engaging stories. Multiple reviews mention that portions are generous, and the food is consistently high quality. Guests appreciated that they didn’t leave hungry—some even raving about the haddock tacos and chocolates as unexpected treats.

The inclusion of craft beer or soda enhances the experience, especially for those eager to sample Maine’s burgeoning craft brewing scene. Many reviews note the beer as a highlight, with one caller it “special” and perfectly paired with seafood.

Guided Experience: Knowledgeable and Approachable

The guides are a major part of the tour’s success. According to reviews, AJ and Timothy are described as “fantastic,” “knowledgeable,” and “friendly,” making the experience both educational and fun. They don’t just give a canned speech—they share personal stories, answer questions, and keep the pace lively.

One reviewer said, “AJ was amazing. She was knowledgeable and entertaining,” while another praised Timothy for sharing insights into Portland’s history and seafood industry. Expect to learn about the daily life of lobstermen, Maine’s fishing practices, and how seafood is harvested and prepared.

Small Group Dynamics and Practicalities

This tour caps at 14 travelers, which creates an intimate atmosphere. It’s ideal if you prefer a more personalized experience over large, crowded tours. The meeting point at Andy’s Old Port Pub is easy to find, and the tour ends at either a local winery or sweets shop, adding flexibility if you want to extend your Portland exploration.

The walking tour is moderate in pace—suitable for most fitness levels—and is mainly outdoors, so dressing appropriately for weather is advised. Note that alternatives are not offered for dietary restrictions, so those with specific needs should consider other options.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Book

• Booking and Price: At $159.99, the tour is priced to reflect its quality, food inclusions, and small group size. Booking on average happens around 58 days in advance, indicating popularity.
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, enough time for a relaxed walk and plenty of tastings.
• Meeting Point: Starts at Andy’s Old Port Pub, 94 Commercial St.
• End Point: Either at Cellardoor Winery, 127 Middle St, or Deans Sweets, 475 Fore Street.
• ID Requirements: Travelers 21+ will need a valid ID for alcohol.
• Weather: The tour is outdoors, so check the forecast, and note that bad weather may lead to rescheduling or refunds.
• Group Size: Max 14 travelers, perfect for interaction without feeling crowded.
• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness but not recommended for individuals with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.7/5 rating from over 129 reviews. Guests love the guides’ expertise, calling AJ and Timothy “fantastic,” “knowledgeable,” and “friendly.” The food consistently earns praise, especially the lobster rolls, chowders, and the surprising choice of haddock tacos, which many found “yummy.”

Guests also appreciate the stories that come with the tastings. One said, “The history given about the city was very interesting,” while another mentioned how the tour was “more food focused than some others,” with a genuine emphasis on local seafood practices.

Some minor critiques include the lobster roll not being as standout as other dishes, and the tour occasionally running longer than scheduled, but these are few compared to the high satisfaction levels.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Old Port “Seafood Lovers” Walking Lunch Tour offers a truly flavorful glimpse into Portland’s seafood culture, combined with engaging storytelling. It’s perfect if you’re passionate about trying authentic Maine cuisine in a friendly, small-group setting. If seafood is your thing and you enjoy learning while you eat, you’ll find this tour to be a memorable highlight of your Portland visit.

While it might not suit those with dietary restrictions or gluten sensitivities, for most seafood lovers, it delivers a generous, educational, and fun experience. The combination of excellent food, expert guides, and a relaxed walk makes this a well-balanced way to spend part of your Portland trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with food allergies?
No, since the tour centers on seafood and includes seafood dishes, it might not be ideal for vegetarians or those with specific food allergies. Alternatives are limited.

Does the tour include transportation between stops?
No, the tour is a walking experience, so you’ll be walking along the waterfront and through Portland’s historic district.

What kind of beverages are included?
Guests can choose between Maine craft beer or soda pop, depending on preference, with the price covering both options.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including walking and tastings.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Andy’s Old Port Pub at 94 Commercial St and ends at either Cellardoor Winery at 127 Middle St or Deans Sweets at 475 Fore Street.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it’s geared toward adults 21+ due to alcohol consumption. Children may join but should be supervised.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Are tips included?
No, gratuities for guides are not included and are at your discretion.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, outdoor walking tours depend on good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour is a fantastic choice for seafood enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting to experience Portland’s waterfront with a tasty twist. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances education, flavor, and fun—making it a memorable addition to any trip to Maine’s most vibrant port city.