Saltwater Canoe Adventures

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.

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