Karen and the team made this an incredible experience for my wife Kat and I. After a thorough briefing and some skills refresh (much appreciated) we slid into the bay in encroaching darkness. Immediately the bio-luminescence experience in the protected waters was pluperfect. And it just got better! Like creating a new Milky Way of turbulent stars every time you slipped your paddle blade into the Castine waters. I was laughing it was so absurd and wonderful. Recommend most strongly and will bring others back for this as well as return for other adventures. read more

We went for a night bioluminescence tour which was magical! It's super cold at night on the water to dress warm. Feet stay pretty dry so I wished I had worn warmer socks/boots. Some people brought gloves, hats and towels to put on their laps. Our guide was 10/10! Super knowledgeable able and went through lots of kayaking tricks and tips as well as safety protocols. It's very dark and a bit more intense sea kayaking than I had done previously but manageable and worth it to see the bioluminescence! read more

Excellent experience. I had initially wanted to rent a kayak to paddle around mooring field but decided to take a tour. Great guides, interesting wildlife and great exercise Would highly recommend signing up for a kayak tour if you are visiting this lovely town of Castine read more

Nick was A M A Z I N G! I have never paddled before and he was patient, kind and HIGHLY experienced. A great time-well worth every penny and so MUCH FUN! Definitely something to do while in this charming village. read more

Castine Kayak Adventures - Nick at Castine Kayak Adventures! - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Castine, Maine

We did the 9a-12p morning sail this weekend and it was a fantastic adventure! Our guide, Nick was incredibly knowledgeable about kayaking and the history of the area. He was the perfect guide! We had people of all experiences in our group, and I'm 100% sure that everyone had an enjoyable experience! We'll definitely come back! read more

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Our recent excursion with Castine Kayak Adventures left me with mixed emotions, ranging from excitement to disappointment. While the picturesque scenery and overall kayaking experience were enjoyable, I must express my disappointment with the guide's unkind demeanor towards the members of our group who didn't fit the stereotypical image of a "fit" kayaker. Even though every member in our group had prior kayak experience, and all were under the weight limit listed on the website. From the moment we arrived at the facility, it was clear that the guide's (Karen), attitude toward our group was less than welcoming. She first commented that her back was out and that she wouldn't be pulling anyone out of a boat and then complained about the bug spray that we were advised to use. It seemed she had already made up her mind about us being able to join the adventure because she was putting off allowing us to purchase gloves. One member was immediately pulled aside and taken to the dock. One member here from Ukraine stated that she was belittled when asked to see if she could even fit in the boat. When she was able to fit in the boat just fine, the guide then said, "Can you even reach the peddles." The participant returned to us a little teary-eyed and wanted us to accompany the second participant so that he, too, would not be treated unkindly. This participant found it difficult to exit the boat and decided not to attend, his money was not refunded. During the kayaking trip, it became increasingly apparent that the guide's lack of empathy extended beyond the initial encounter. Instead of fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, the guide made derogatory comments and appeared impatient with those who needed extra assistance or took longer to maneuver their kayaks. This dampened the overall experience and left a lasting negative impression on our group. In addition to the discriminatory treatment, the guide's lack of professionalism was concerning. While Castine Kayak Adventures boasts a beautiful location and potentially enriching experience, it is crucial for the management to address the issue of discriminatory behavior from their guides. Participants should be treated with respect and inclusivity, regardless of their physical appearance or abilities. It is disheartening to see such behavior in an industry that should celebrate the joy of outdoor activities and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to participate. I hope that Castine Kayak Adventures takes this review as an opportunity for growth and improvement. It is my sincere hope that they reevaluate their training protocols and ensure that all guides uphold the values of inclusivity, respect, and professionalism. Until these concerns are adequately addressed, I would hesitate to recommend this company to others. I would like to thank the assistant guide, Mallory, for her kindness throughout the trip. read more

This was my first time kayaking at night and first time kayaking in the ocean. We had an awesome time and the bioluminescence were amazing to see. It looked like stars in the water. Our tour guide was awesome and super knowledgeable. It was raining when we first got there and we were provided with skirt covers for our kayaks to keep our legs dry. A great experience and I would definitely recommend stopping in Castine to experience this bioluminescent bay! read more

Castine Kayak Adventures - Bioluminescent Night Tour - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Castine, Maine

How do I give this ten stars?? This was one of the most memorable nights of my life! And because you can't really take pictures here, you really have to see it to believe it. But if I had to put it in words, then I'd have to say that sea kayaking in pure darkness, while watching the night sky illuminated by thousands of stars and the sea sparkling with bioluminescene each time I paddled was one of the most amazing things I've ever had the opportunity to do in my life. It was so surreal. Karen is an amazing guide, and funny to boot. Definitely dress warmly and also be careful with your paddles if you don't want to get wet. read more

We did the nightly bioluminescence tour. It was incredible! I would highly recommend this tour. Our guide, Nick, was so great and knowledgeable. I loved that they gave us a slow walk through before hand as well, staff was very friendly and helpful. And the bioluminescence tour is just magical read more

An unbelievable experience! :) Bioluminescence and Sea Kayaking were both new to us until today but will be memorized as an unforgettable night going forward! We began paddling as the dusk set throwing beautiful sunset hues all over the sky and horizon. As we slowly moved to the dark coves, where the water was pitch dark and we were way away from city lights, sparkles lit up the Sea with every stroke of our paddles! After a while, the cove began to glow with everyone's paddling that jittered the planktons sitting there. And we seldom realized that it was quite dark above us too as the night sky had set with gazillions of stars to gaze! AND dear Lord!! The whole of MilkyWay was staring at us, so bright, gorgeous and we were awestruck!!!! From the binary star in our Big Dipper to Cassiopeia , little dipper, Scorpio end - end, Antares , Hercules and the huge streak of Milkyway was so easily visible. Mars and Saturn were unusually bright! To sum it up it was a bed of stars above and below! I surely recommend this bioluminescence tour at night with Karen and team!!! read more

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We took last night's bioluminescence kayak trip with John as our guide. I would recommend having experience using a sea kayak before taking this venture. It is definitely something amazing to see and John had lots & lots of facts to share. He seemed annoyed when my 2 friends who had no experience had problems. He was the one who partnered them together instead of putting them with someone experienced. read more

A "glowing" review. We were happy to have found this place while visiting Acadia National Park. We did the Bioluminescence trip, which was amazing! We had kayaked a few times prior, but never in the ocean or in the dark. Karen was great at making us feel comfortable going into the trip. She was thorough in her instructions regarding safety and demonstration of proper kayaking positioning/techniques. She was also very knowledgeable regarding the organisms and bioluminescence. She made sure to stop and explain what we were seeing and encouraged us to play around with our paddles in the water. The bioluminescence was even more incredible than anticipated. It was a unique adventure that you have to experience for yourself. Book this trip! Kirsten & Tim read more

We chose this outfitter for our Maine kayak trek after our Philmont trip went up in smoke, literally. Carin (sp) was very helpful and highly knowledge and kept everyone aware of any safety concerns. Some of the boys said she was a bit brunt, but I feel that she was seen as she needed to be. When it was over, all the boys told both leaders that they fully enjoyed the trip and would do it again in a heart beat. read more

Program: bioluminescent nighttime tour! I had high hopes for this adventure to start. Not only was the weather perfect (no clouds, sky full of stars) but Karen (owner and tour guide) was witty and full of fun knowledge. I had fear it would be a short tour since it was a group nighttime activity but we spent close to 3 hours kayak-frolicking through water littered with glowing organisms. I'd do it again. 10/10! read more

This experience was amazing. For the experienced and beginner it was a treat. Karen was a knowledgeable, helpful, hardworking, and kind guide. You could tell she loved what she does. I have only kayaked once so was nervous but you go doubles so it was better. My two daughters said it was an unforgettable experience. We drove 1 hr out of our way to do this and you should too. The stars were so bright and the Milky Way was beautiful. The bioluminecence was like fireflies under water. It was a clear, calm, not too cold (50) night so perfect. Even though it says 630 to 930, by the time you do the prep drill and cleanup at the end, actual water time is 730 to 9. The cool thing Karen does is put the boats together and hosts her own planetarium in the bay as you spin around and hear stories about the constellations. It neat. read more

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We scheduled a little last minute for the Bioluminescent night kayak tour so my group of 4 was a little concerned we wouldn't be properly dressed all we had were cotton hoodies and Jeans. Our incredible guide Elizabeth made sure all of us were educated on how to properly paddle in a way which we won't be soaked and cold. They are excellent at scouting which days will be best for seeing the glowing organisms. Not only did I leave with an unforgettable and cherished unique experience, I also left with a lot of confidence in my ability to learn new things!! read more

It's more of a "kayak technique" class than anything else. We took the trip down from Acadia hoping we could get on a tour to see the islands, the ocean, some wildlife, etc, but really just ended up paddling around somewhat frustratedly. Karen is a little abrasive. Although her assistants (Addie and Emma?) were sweet and helpful and pleasant. Rather than showing us around for a relaxing afternoon, we spent most of the afternoon "perfecting our kayaking technique". We didn't see or learn much. As beginners and vacationers, we're sticking with tours in Acadia in the future. If you're looking for somewhere to look around and explore and relax, I suggest trying somewhere else. read more

My family went on an amazing kayaking trip with Itzel as our guide. Our ages ranged from 25 to 73 years, and a range of experience from none to moderate. Itzel was a wonderful, warm and thorough teacher. We all had a great time, and I would definitely do it again. read more

Blown away by our experience. We signed up for the night bio luminescence se kayaking tour. I was nervous about the waves and the weather but our guides immediately put us at ease. They gave us instruction on paddling techniques and how to get in and out of the kayak which was extremely helpful. The kayaks we're tandem so my boyfriend was positioned in the back since he was more experienced. The paddle across the bay was a bit wavy but once we got by the cove, it was magic, seeing the water sparkle with every paddle stroke. We were out in the water for 2-2.5 hours and enjoyed every second of the magic, while being educated on what we were seeing and what it meant. On the way back the waves had increased in size but our guides stayed calm, helping to direct us to the dock and safely docking us. This was such a unique experience that I will remember forever! I do recommend however you have some kayaking experience prior to the night tour. read more

Amazing experience on the bioluminescence tour. I highly recommend booking a tour with Castine Kayak Adventures. Starting the trip somewhat intimidated, we were quickly put at ease by Karen, our guide, as she explained some of the fundamentals before we even entered the water. After ensuring an easy (and dry) entry into the water, both guides explained some kayaking techniques that made the paddling seem effortless. The quiet beauty of the water, interrupted only by Karen's beautiful singing voice, was alone worth the trip. Once the darkness rolls over the water is when the amazement really begins. Each stroke or splash, and the bioluminescence explosion that they bring, is mesmerizing. Karen also does an excellent job explaining some of the science behind bioluminescence, without getting all scientific. Chatting while huddled together while enjoying the brilliant sky added to the pleasure. The 1:20 drive from Bar Harbor passes quickly with limited traffic, and shouldn't be a deterrent from this incredible tour. read more

The guide was nice enough but neither the scenery nor his dialog were worth the money. The area around Stonington ( less than 40 minutes away ) is *way nicer and the guides there couldn't be any *less interesting than what we had. Essentially we paid $110 to go paddle for a couple of hours with very occasional commentary. I wouldn't go back. read more

I just went here last night and it was definitely an experience I would want to live again! If you're staying in Bar Harbor it's definitely worth the hour and a half trek out to Castine to do the bioluminescent tour. We were treated by Karen who runs the business and is very knowledgeable! While not much is known about the bioluminescence Karen will give you her thoughts on the subject. The salt water bay that we kayaked in still as pond water which made for easy kayaking! Once we got into a channel with each stroke of your paddle, drag of your hand, or the ripples from the kayak to the left of you, you can see the bioluminescence paint the water! It looks as if a kindergartener littered the water with glow increase dark glitter or there we billions of underwater fireflies greeting you with glee. I'll have to admit kayaking in the dark is a daunting but most of the water we were in couldn't have been more than a few feet deep due to low tide! I'd do it again. Our group was super small, only one other couple which made for a great experience. I'm so happy we did this tour. It's definitely in the top five of any experience I've ever had! read more

Castine Kayak Adventures - Sun is setting - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Castine, Maine

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I can't recommend Karen and her staff enough-- they prioritize safety and emphasize stewardship and respect for the marine ecosystem (which is a must!), along with giving excellent advice about form and technique that can benefit anyone with or without previous experience. The bioluminescent kayak tour was so spectacular we had to come back to do it a second time! We had such a wonderful time we scheduled a third half-day tour to see the lovely coastline in the daylight. We can't wait to come back the next time we're in Castine. read more

Great Tour Company. The bioluminescence was amazing!

This was an amazing experience!!! Totally worth the money as well as time driving. They had amazing and welcoming staff, great service and equipment as well! read more

Was on a 2 week adventure. A last minute find and decision to go turned into long lasting memories. You have to do the night kayak if you find yourself anywhere near here. We went into the darkest parts of the Castine and the bioluminescence was like fireworks exploding under the water (hint: use the 'helicopter technique' and twirl your oar). I was solo and got put in a kayak with the owner's father actually :). He was very knowledgeable about the stars and the area. Was so peaceful out there. Then we 'rafted' up and had a floating astronomy lesson on glowing tides. It was an incredible clear night with a new moon, the jagged arm of the milky way could be seen clearly arching above and leaning back in my kayak i was calmly lost between the sky and the ocean. I believe they're open for walk-ins if they have room but make the reservation. Parking nearby in a lot or on the street above. read more

There is no more knowledgeable guide than Karen, the owner. Every paddle I have taken over the past 10 years has been educational, fun and interesting. Castine Harbor is full of picturesque islands, coves, there's even a sunken ship! There's no better way to see Maine than on the water, and Castine Kayak is a perfect way to do it. It's a little hard to locate -- head down the gravel road towards Dennett's and you'll see the little building on the left. If you are visiting the area, don't miss the chance to get out on the water with an outfitter that really knows the area. read more

Had an excellent kayaking adventure here. The service was very professional and friendly in setting up my trip. Our guide James did an outstanding job prepping us with basic instruction, and continued helping us hone our skills throughout the trip. I have kayaked before but still learned a lot in just a few short hours. James was also a great tour guide and was well versed in local history, sharing many stories and local legends throughout the three hour excursion. This is a solid 5-star business and I would recommend them to anyone looking or a fun and accessible water adventure for people of all ages and experience. read more

Karen was an incredible, down to earth guide that made it easy for my younger sister to learn how to paddle and feel comfortable, in the dark nonetheless! We went for a nighttime bioluminescent tour and it was spectacular, you could tell that the owner really loved her work and she took us to some very special places where she shared her knowledge of the stars as well. The experience was truly extraordinary and I'd recommend. This to anyone with an appreciation for life and true beauty. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. read more

We made a special trip to Castine to do the night kayak and LOVED it. The instructions, the guides, and the entire experience, especially the floating planetarium, was over-the-top great. We highly recommend this! read more

August 17th, 2011: What an amazing time! My wife and I took a nightime biolumenescence tour with Kale. He was very engaging and informitive. My wife was a little nervouse about kayaking in the dark, but We found Kale to be very knowledgeable and skillful and we felt safe with him. He briefed us before we got in our kayaks about safety, awareness, and what to expect. After we got into our kayaks he taught us few "tools" to make our paddling easier. He stayed with us the whole time, answering questions about the glowing water and educating us on the local history. After the tour we met the owner Karen at the gear shop and the banter between her and Kale was dowright hysterical. You can tell the she is a great boss and he likes to work for her. We were sad to hear that Kale is leaving the area, but are excited to learn new things from Karen next summer! It was a fantastic time that we will never forget. read more

If I could, I'd give this place zero stars. Terrible customer service. Took my Credit card information as a "hold" and told me the card would never be charged. Did not inform me of the cancellation policy over the phone. I asked to be put on a waiting list, since they were fully booked, but no one ever called me back. Next things a charge for $110 was placed on the card I was told was there for 'Holding'. After calling to explain I was lost in the mountains 35 minutes before our appointment, the employee had NO IDEA where he was and kept repeating the address. Why would that be helpful? I repeated my surrounding landmarks and he responded "you have to drive through a parking lot" Are you kidding me? Is there's the only parking lot in all of southern maine? What a joke! He could not even give me the name of a nearby town or any landmarks. I called to speak with the owner, who told me its not her fault i couldn't find it they gave me all the information i needed -- an address. They have family working for them who don't know the location at all, so its my problem, not theirs. I will never come back here and I will tell everyone I know to use a different service than this one. Thanks for leaving a sour taste in my mouth and leaving me feeling ripped off, Castine Kayak Adventures! read more

I just finished a 7-day kayaking trip led by Karen Francoeur of Castine Kayak Adventures. Eight of us, plus Karen, about 80 miles, starting up in Machias, ending at Karen's shop in Castine. Karen was excellent; she customized the trip for us, and modified as necessary as we went along (we had to change plans two days due to high winds). Karen is an excellent teacher and gave us instruction throughout the trip; even though many of us were very experienced kayakers, we all learned a lot. Karen was also always pointing out birds and seals and ocean life, planned delicious meals, and has amazing energy. She planned some extra stops so I could stretch (sore hamstrings). On some potentially dangerous crossings, she kept everyone safe, and she picked some excellent inns and B&Bs for us to stay at (kayaking inn to inn for part of the trip). I brought my own kayak, but the others were pleased with the equipment that she provided. An excellent trip and I highly recommend Karen. read more