Getting Here & Contact Information
Arriving at House Island
Our Check-In and Check-Out Boat Service
Navigating your way to House Island couldn't be easier, thanks to Fortland's transportation services. We streamline your journey, beginning with a scenic boat ride for check-in at 3:30 PM and ending with a relaxed trip back to the mainland at 11:00 AM after check-out.
Parking and transport details will be communicated to you via email before your stay, ensuring you know where to go and what to expect. Our dedicated parking for one vehicle per site is located at Bug Light Boat Launch in South Portland. Arrive 15-20 minutes early to comfortably unload your gear and secure your parking pass from the kiosk—simply mention you're with Fortland. Following this, drop off your gear at the dock loading area and prepare for your visit to House Island.
Our boats are designed to handle various group sizes, and the Captain + crew will identify themselves as being with Fortland. So sit back, enjoy the ride, and our team will welcome you to the island.
Arriving By Water Taxi: Flexibility and Convenience
While House Island offers a wealth of activities and scenic beauty to fill your days, you may wish to return to the mainland occasionally. Thanks to a variety of reliable water taxi services operating in the area, you can do so with ease and flexibility.
We recommend Fogg's Water Taxi, renowned for its stellar customer service and reliable scheduling. They offer a comprehensive service that caters to the needs of visitors wanting to explore the richness of Casco Bay and its surroundings.
Another service, Portland Sea Taxi, stands out with its unique offerings. They pride themselves on their accommodating nature, willing to adjust to your schedule and specific travel needs. With a solid reputation for safety and punctuality, you can rely on Sea Taxi to ferry you to and from the island at your convenience.
NOTE: If you will be arriving or departing at a different check-in or check-out time, your timing must be communicated to our team, so we can help accommodate your plans.
Just Looking For a Quick Visit?
If you are more excited about visiting the island than camping, consider booking a Private Island and Fort Tour with Portland Explorer. Lasting about two hours, this tour provides an exclusive opportunity to explore the historic Fort Scammel on House Island, complete with catacombs-style underground passages and French influences.
You'll witness the stunning architecture and masonry of the fort, Fortland's commitment to sustainability through solar power, composting toilets, temporary dwellings, and breathtaking views of the harbor, lighthouses, and other scenic attractions. This tour is suitable for all ages, with a fun scavenger hunt for kids, making it a perfect family adventure.
Visiting House Island and immersing yourself in its rich history and natural beauty has never been easier. Start your journey today!
Driving Directions to Bug Light Boat Ramp
From the North
From I-295 S, take Exit 6A to Forest Ave (ME-100 S). Merge onto Forest Ave, staying right to turn onto State Street (ME-77 S). Continue across Casco Bay Bridge and straight onto Broadway Ave. Turn left onto Breakwater Drive, and right onto Madison Street. Turn left, and the destination will be ahead. Upon arrival, follow our parking details.
From the South
From I-295 N, take Exit 4 towards Casco Bay Bridge/Portland/Waterfront. Continue onto Veterans Memorial Bridge. Continue onto Fore River Parkway, and then to W. Commercial St. Use the left lane to merge onto Casco Bay Bridge (ME-77 S), continuing straight onto Broadway Ave for 1.5 miles. Turn left onto Breakwater Drive, and right onto Madison Street. Turn left, and the destination will be ahead. Upon arrival, follow our parking details.
Contact Information
Fortland
207-200-1267
info@fortlandmaine.com
Physical Address:
0 House Island
Portland, ME 04101, USA
Mailing Address:
PO Box 252
Freeport ME 04032