Overview

Join us for a multi-day adventure along the coast of Maine as we explore the distinct tidal waterways of Maine. Using our fleet of canoes, we depart from Chewonki Neck in Wiscasset and set out to claim one of several locations in our extensive network of private island campsites. With guidance from our expert instructors, students explore multiple coastal ecosystems, learn outdoor camping skills and bond over life-long experiences as they make camp, cook meals and discover the world outside.

At a Glance

Recommended Grade Range: 7th-9th grade
Group Size: 11 students per adventure group, up to 55 in total
Trip Length: 4-day 3-night experience
Location: Chewonki Campus & Maine Islands
Pricing: $454 per student (grant subsidies or discounts available for qualifying schools)

Sample Saltwater Canoe Trip Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival at Chewonki
Campus Tour
Meet your Instructors
Icebreaker Games & Activities
Picnic Lunch
The Duffel Shuffle – Collect Waterproof Backpacks, PFD’s, Paddles & Group Gear
Paddle School – learn the basics of safe boating
Load Canoes at the Boat Launch
Paddle to Castle Island (3-5 mi.)
Learn to Set up Tents
Outdoor Cooking Instruction & Dinner

Day 2: Island Exploration

Breakfast
Exploration of Hockomock Bay in Canoes
Ocean Tides Lesson
Picnic Lunch
Chart & Compass Skills Instruction
Canoe Games
Return to Island Campsite
Dinner
Campfire with S’mores

Day 3:

Breakfast
Paddle to Beal Island (2 mi.)
Explore Rocky Shore Ecosystem
Picnic Lunch
Hike around Beal Island & Observe Strong Tidal Flows
Return to Island Campsite
Dinner
Stargazing & Group Reflection

Day 4:

Breakfast
Leave No Trace Campsite Cleanup
Paddle Back to Chewonki & Return Gear
Writing Activity: Personal Certifications
Picnic Lunch
Departure

Unique Chewonki Features

Access to Private Islands off the Maine Coast
Age-Appropriate Canoe & Water Safety Instruction
Chewonki-Trained Outdoor Instructors

Learn More

For more information about Saltwater Canoe Adventures or to book a program for your group, please contact us.