Frequently Asked Questions
Prohibited Items
Prohibited Items include outside alcohol, illegal drugs, firearms and glass containers of any kind.
Accessibility
Odyssey is not wheelchair accessible. Ocean movements can be unpredictable. Whale watches may not be advisable for individuals with mobility limitations or balance issues. Additionally, we are unable to accommodate walkers onboard. Thank you for your understanding.
Smoking
Odyssey is a smoke-free vessel. This includes e-cigarettes and vaporizers.
What is the difference between the upper deck and the main deck?
The upper deck is a smaller space that holds only 19 passengers. The view is not necessarily better up top, but it is a more intimate space where you’ll be around fewer passengers. If you book the upper deck, you are welcome to go down to the main deck as well. Both decks have outside seating. Photos of both decks can be seen online at odysseywhalewatch.com under the “our vessels” section of the website.
Can we bring our own food and drink onboard?
You are welcome to bring your own food and drink on Odyssey. Our snack bar has light packaged snacks and drinks, but we do not offer any lunch food, so many guests choose to pack their own lunch. Please do not bring hard sided coolers, glass bottles, or outside alcohol as we have a liquor license and sell adult beverages at our bar.
Are there restrooms on the boat?
There are two restrooms on Odyssey, our whale watch boat. There are NO bathrooms on Explorer, our seal watch and private charter boat.
Do you have lifejackets we can wear?
We have life jackets for all ages on board. We cannot give these out unless there is an emergency. If you would like to bring your own life jacket to wear you are welcome to do so.
Can we bring a stroller or car seat?
No, we cannot accommodate car seats or strollers on our boats. Infants must be held the entire trip. Our whale watch is a long adventure on the open ocean. As both sea conditions and the boat’s movement are unpredictable, we encourage folks with infants to strongly consider this reality before booking reservations. For families with infants, we recommend our shorter seal watch aboard Explorer. This trip stays in the protection of the bay.
Can we bring our pet?
No.
What if I am pregnant?
It is your decision. On our whale watch, we can be 2+ hours from shore in the event of an emergency. Please closely consider this before booking. We recommend our shorter seal watch aboard Explorer as this trip is 45-60 minutes in length and stays close to shore.
Where can I park?
There are many private parking lots and garages nearby us. Please click here to see a map of parking in the area. Be aware that parking is limited in Portland and can sometimes be difficult to find—leave extra time to find appropriate parking before check-in. Reservations are honored until check-in, 30 minutes prior departure.
Contact Odyssey
Mailing Address
Odyssey Whale Watch
PO Box 17801
Portland, ME 04112
Directions
From the North: I-295 to Exit 7. Follow Franklin Street (Route 1A) South to Commercial Street. Turn right onto Commercial Street +/- .2 miles to Long Wharf on your left.
From the South: I-295 to Exit 4. Take Route 1 North +/- 1.2 miles. Exit to the right and take Route 1A (Commercial Street). Follow 1A North for +/- 2 miles to Long Wharf on your right.
Parking
We do not have our own parking. Parking in Portland can be very challenging, however there are several lots and garages within easy walking distance of our location.