​​Birds on Tap℠ - Roadtrip! Shorebirds and Steins

 

August 3, 2025; 9:00am - 3:00pm​

​Cost - $115
 

Portland Explorer (formerly Maine Brews Cruise) and Freeport Wild Bird Supply are excited to continue our collaboration for six very special outings in 2024. 

 

These unique, relaxed birding and beer-ing adventures that you have come to love combine great local birding at seasonal hotspots with visits to sample the delicious creations of some of our favorite local breweries. These tours are a perfect introduction to birding and/or craft beer, and a great opportunity to travel with significant others, friends, and family that have interest in one topic, while your interest is primarily in the other (for now!). Seasonal birding hotspots and great local beer - a perfect combination, and we'll even do all of the driving!

 

The original BoT Roadtrip! Way back in 2015, our most popular tour returns to Scarborough Marsh at prime time for a good variety of migrant shorebirds. We’ll learn how to identify our common species, and search for the rare. Up to 20 species of shorebirds are possible! We'll practice identifying our "peeps" (Least, Semipalmated, and White-rumped Sandpipers) and attempt to tease out a rare Western or even a Baird's among the masses. We'll look for local breeding American Oystercatchers and Willets, while searching for migrants such as Red Knots on their way from the high Arctic to the southern tip of Argentina.

 

And not to worry, we'll take a look at everything else, such as Common, Roseate, and Least Terns; herons and egrets, and who knows what else? We may even get a chance to see Nelson's and Saltmarsh Sparrows depending on time, wind, and tide.

 

After about 3 hours of birding, we will be transported to two of our great local producers to sample their offerings and learn their styles. Our brewery destinations are subject to change, but the current plan is to visit Modestman and The Send. 

 

Modestman Brewing in Portland, Maine, is renowned for its dedication to creating small-batch, artisanal beers that blend traditional brewing methods with modern innovation. Their beer selection is characterized by a dynamic range of styles, from velvety smooth stouts to vibrant and aromatic IPAs, each crafted to showcase the depth and complexity of flavors. Modestman is committed to pushing the boundaries of craft beer, experimenting with different hops, malts, and brewing techniques to produce distinctive, high-quality beers that resonate with both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

 

The Send Brewing Co. in South Portland is celebrated for its unique fusion of craft beer and Japanese culinary traditions, offering beers that are as diverse as they are flavorful. From robust porters to delicate pilsners, each batch is brewed with a focus on quality and a nod to sustainable practices. Their beers are designed to pair beautifully with their menu of Japanese comfort food, creating a harmonious dining and drinking experience.

  

The samples are included in the tour price, and Portland Explorer will supply a light snack (TBA) and water. Bring binoculars and a spotting scope if you have one. We also recommend bringing a lunch or additional snack if you so desire. Sunscreen, a light jacket in case the wind turns onshore, and sturdy comfortable walking shoes are also recommended – we will be out in the sun for the duration of the birding portion of the tour. 

 

We'll be doing all of the driving, so you can relax. And to make it even easier, we have two pick-up times and locations:

9:00am

Freeport Wild Bird Supply

541 Route One, Freeport.

 

or 9:20am

Marginal Way Park & Ride

(opposite the intersection with Diamond St, just east of Franklin Ave), Portland.

 

(Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time at either location, and please let us know where you will be meeting us)

  

This tour is limited to 12 participants, so sign up soon! 

 

Check out the trip reports for 2019 and 2024 to see why you don’t want to miss out this year!

​

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​

Birds on Tap℠ - The Boat Trip! Migrant Birds and Island Exploration

 

September 21, 2025; 9:00am to 2:00pm

Cost - $140

 

Portland Explorer (formerly Maine Brews Cruise) and Freeport Wild Bird Supply are excited to resurrect our collaboration for six very special outings in 2024. 

 

These unique, relaxed birding and beer-ing adventures that you have come to love combine great local birding at seasonal hotspots with visits to sample the delicious creations of some of our favorite local breweries. These tours are a perfect introduction to birding and/or craft beer, and a great opportunity to travel with significant others, friends, and family that have interest in one topic, while your interest is primarily in the other (for now!). 

But this time we’re leaving the van in the garage, and hitting the water! That’s right, we’re taking a cruise, and we’re returning to the private House Island in Porland Harbor twice in 2025. 

 

During last year’s wildly successful outing in which we became the first birding group ever on the island, we found oodles of Yellow-rumped Wabrlers, an uncommon Field Sparrow, and other migrants. But we were also captivated by Captain Pete, who guided us through the historic fort, sharing a wealth of historical knowledge and fascinating stories. The beer was pretty darn good too, as we sampled the history of Maine’s craft beer movement. 

 

Building on that success, we’re visiting the private House Island in Portland Harbor twice in 2025! Once again, we’ve been granted special permission to come ashore and scour the island here in the peak of fall migration. We’ll follow well-maintained trails through the island’s mosaic of open habitats, scrub, and young woods. These are great habitats to search for a variety of migrants, and perhaps even a rarity!  

 

Our first trip will be in September with its greater diversity of warbler species, the beginning of sparrow and waterbird migration, and perhaps even a flight of migrant hawks. September is known for its quantity of birds, and we’ll be the first birding tour group to find out what House Island holds in this productive time of year. 

 

As we motor back across the harbor, we’ll continue to familiarize ourselves with some of the common waterbirds, such as Common Eiders, Common Loons, and perhaps some lingering Ospreys and others from the summer, all while enjoying a local craft beverage produced in the city of Portland. While the exact plan is subject to change, we’ll be sure to come up with a plan to adequately celebrate our discoveries – or the one that got away! 

 

The beverages are included in the tour price, and Portland Explorer will supply a light snack and water. Bring binoculars.  We also recommend bringing a lunch or additional snack if you so desire. Sturdy comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as are a variety of layers as it can be quite chilly on the water by the end of October. 

 

Check out the 2024 tour report to see why you really don’t want to miss out again this year! 

​

Meeting Location

• Meeting time: 9am

• Meeting location: Portland Beer Hub: 320 Fore Street, Portland, ME 04101

  • on street parking is available in Portland’s Old Port

  • parking garages are also an option and listed below

    • Fore Street Parking Garage – 427 Fore Street, Portland

    • Fisherman’s Wharf – 202 Commercial Street, Portland

    • Custom House Parking Garage – 25 Pearl Street, Portland

*Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time.*

We’ll return to Portland Beer Hub at 2:00pm

​

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​

Birds on Tap℠ - The Boat Trip! Rare Birds and Island Exploration

​

October 19, 2025; 9:00am - 2:00pm

(Weather date 10/26)

Cost - $140

​

Portland Explorer (formerly Maine Brews Cruise) and Freeport Wild Bird Supply are excited to resurrect our collaboration for six very special outings in 2024. 

 

These unique, relaxed birding and beer-ing adventures that you have come to love combine great local birding at seasonal hotspots with visits to sample the delicious creations of some of our favorite local breweries. These tours are a perfect introduction to birding and/or craft beer, and a great opportunity to travel with significant others, friends, and family that have interest in one topic, while your interest is primarily in the other (for now!). 

But this time we’re leaving the van in the garage, and hitting the water! That’s right, we’re taking a cruise, and we’re returning to the private House Island in Porland Harbor twice in 2025. 

 

During last year’s wildly successful outing in which we became the first birding group ever on the island, we found oodles of Yellow-rumped Wabrlers, an uncommon Field Sparrow, and other migrants. But we were truly captivated by Captain Pete, who guided us through the historic fort, sharing a wealth of historical knowledge and fascinating stories. The beer was pretty darn good too, as we sampled the history of Maine’s craft beer scene. 

 

Building on that success, we’re visiting the private House Island in Portland Harbor twice in 2025. We’ve been granted special permission to come ashore and scour the island here in the peak of fall migration. We’ll follow well-maintained trails through the island’s mosaic of open habitats, scrub, and young woods. These are great habitats to search for a variety of migrants, and perhaps even a rarity!  

 

Returning in late October, once again rarities will be on our mind. While rare birds are rare, we are still going to expect the unexpected. But more likely are regular migrants of the season such as Yellow-rumped Warblers, a variety of sparrows, and a growing diversity of waterbirds. At the very least, we’ll have resident waterbirds and several species of gulls to sort through. We are having daydreams of a rare flycatcher!

 

As we motor back across the harbor, we’ll continue to familiarize ourselves with some of the common waterbirds, such as Common Eiders, Common Loons, and the vanguard of our winter diving ducks while enjoying a local craft beverage produced in the city of Portland. While the exact plan is subject to change, we’ll be sure to come up with a plan to adequately celebrate our discoveries – or the one that got away! 

 

The beverages are included in the tour price, and Portland Explorer will supply a light snack and water. Bring binoculars.  We also recommend bringing a lunch or additional snack if you so desire. Sturdy comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as are a variety of layers as it can be quite chilly on the water by the end of October. 

 

Meeting Location

• Meeting time: 9am

• Meeting location: Portland Beer Hub: 320 Fore Street, Portland, ME 04101

  • on street parking is available in Portland’s Old Port

  • parking garages are also an option and listed below

    • Fore Street Parking Garage – 427 Fore Street, Portland

    • Fisherman’s Wharf – 202 Commercial Street, Portland

    • Custom House Parking Garage – 25 Pearl Street, Portland

*Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time.*

We’ll return to Portland Beer Hub at 2:00pm

Check out the 2024 tour report to see why you really don’t want to miss out again this year! 

 

__________________________________________________________

​

Birds on Tap℠ - Roadtrip! Rarity Roundup

​

November 9, 2025; 8:00am - 3:00pm

Cost - $125

​

Portland Explorer (formerly Maine Brews Cruise) and Freeport Wild Bird Supply are excited to continue our collaboration for six very special outings in 2024. 

 

These unique, relaxed birding and beer-ing adventures that you have come to love combine great local birding at seasonal hotspots with visits to sample the delicious creations of some of our favorite local breweries. These tours are a perfect introduction to birding and/or craft beer, and a great opportunity to travel with significant others, friends, and family that have interest in one topic, while your interest is primarily in the other (for now!). Seasonal birding hotspots and great local beer - a perfect combination, and we'll even do all of the driving!

Early November is a fantastic time of year in Maine for vagrants - birds normally seen in far-off places.  Due to a combination of weather patterns, changing seasonal food resources, falling temperatures, and other factors - some of which are not completely understood - birds that may have ended up in Maine by "accident" begin to concentrate at the coast in "migrant traps" and "hotspots."  In other words, this is the time of year to expect the unexpected.  

​

A traditional "Rarity Roundup" involves teams of birders heading out on a given day during rarity prime time, looking for species that are not supposed to be around. And in honor of that tradition, that's exactly what we are going to do on this unique tour. We may "chase" a rarity (go to see something that has already been found, aka "twitch") or we might choose a destination known for rare birds in an attempt to find one of our own. Or perhaps, we'll do both!

​

Anything between Portland and Kittery is fair game, and we might not even know where we will head until we are on the bus and the latest rare bird alert is received. For those who love adding a bird to your Life or State List, and/or basking in the thrill of discovery, well then this is the tour for you! In between seeing great birds, we'll discuss the complex factors that are involved in delivering rarities to an area, and how we go about finding them.

​

After about 3-4 hours of birding, depending on drive time, we will be transported to two of our great local producers to sample their offerings and learn their styles. Our brewery destinations are subject to change, but the current plan is to visit Woodland Farms Brewing and Tributary Brewing Company. 

 

Woodland Farms Brewery in Kittery stands out for its extensive range of beers, from traditional lagers and ales to adventurous sours and seasonal specials. They emphasize innovation and quality, constantly experimenting with new styles and ingredients to push the boundaries of craft brewing. Their commitment to variety ensures that there is always something new and exciting on tap for every palate.

 

Tributary Brewing Company in Kittery offers a meticulous selection of handcrafted beers, with each recipe designed to highlight the nuances of traditional brewing while embracing contemporary flavors. From silky stouts to vibrant IPAs, the beers at Tributary reflect the brewmaster’s decades of experience and a deep passion for brewing excellence. Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship makes each visit a richly satisfying experience for true beer lovers.

  

The samples are included in the tour price, and Portland Explorer will supply a light snack (TBA) and water. Bring binoculars and a spotting scope if you have one. We also recommend bringing a lunch or additional snack if you so desire. Sunscreen, an extra layer or two, and sturdy comfortable walking shoes are also recommended as we will want to be comfortable during both a long drive or a standing vigil outside. 

 

We'll be doing all of the driving, so you can relax. And to make it even easier, we have two pick-up times and locations:

8 am

Freeport Wild Bird Supply

541 Route One, Freeport.

 

or 8:20 am

Marginal Way Park & Ride

(opposite the intersection with Diamond St, just east of Franklin Ave), Portland.

 

(Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time at either location, and please let us know where you will be meeting us)

  

This tour is limited to 12 participants, so sign up soon! 

 

Check out the trip report from 2019 to see why you don’t want to miss out this year!

​

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​

Birds On Tap℠ - Roadtrip! Harlequins and Hops

​

February 2026 TBA; 9:00am - 3:00pm

​

Cost - $115

​

Portland Explorer (formerly Maine Brews Cruise) and Freeport Wild Bird Supply are excited to continue our collaboration for 6 very special outings in 2025. 

 

These unique, relaxed birding and beer-ing adventures that you have come to love combine great local birding at seasonal hotspots with visits to sample the delicious creations of some of our favorite local breweries. These tours are a perfect introduction to birding and/or craft beer, and a great opportunity to travel with significant others, friends, and family that have interest in one topic, while your interest is primarily in the other (for now!). Seasonal birding hotspots and great local beer - a perfect combination, and we'll even do all of the driving!

 

This itinerary takes advantage of some of the amazing birding opportunities right here in Greater Portland in the depths of winter. We’ll begin on the rocky shores of Cape Elizabeth, where the stunning Harlequin Duck joins a wide array of winter seaducks, from Common Eider to all three species of scoters. We’ll also look for Purple Sandpipers, Black Guillemots, Red-necked and Horned Grebes, Common and Red-throated Loons, and much more.

 

Depending on weather and ice conditions, our second stop may include more seaduck searching, or we might check some of the concentrations of gulls in Portland and South Portland to look for Iceland and Glaucous Gulls, or perhaps seek out a lingering dabbler among the city park Mallard aggregations. We’ll remain flexible to take advantage - or seek shelter - from whatever winter weather may be at hand.

 

After about 3 hours of birding, we will be transported to two of our great local producers to sample their offerings and learn their styles. Our brewery destinations are subject to change, but the current plan is to visit Argenta Brewing Company and Belleflower Brewing Company. 

 

Argenta Brewing Company in Portland, Maine, is a must-visit for beer lovers, offering a unique lager-focused experience inspired by the lively German beer halls of the 19th century. Known for its expertly crafted lagers—like the rich Black Lager and crisp Rice Lager—each pint is served in hefty, old-world seidels for an authentic touch. With a spacious, family-friendly tasting room, a vibrant patio featuring food trucks, and free popcorn to snack on, it’s the perfect spot to relax, connect, and savor exceptional brews!

 

Belleflower Brewing Company in Portland, Maine, has quickly established itself as a hub for exceptionally crafted beers, showcasing a passion for both classic and innovative brewing techniques. Their diverse offerings range from robust, hop-forward IPAs to smooth, malty stouts and everything in between, all brewed with meticulous attention to detail and the finest ingredients. Belleflower’s commitment to quality is evident in each pint, with seasonal specials and core favorites that cater to a wide array of tastes and preferences, making it a standout in Portland’s vibrant craft beer scene.

  

The samples are included in the tour price, and Portland Explorer will supply a light snack (TBD) and water. Bring binoculars. We also recommend bringing a lunch or additional snack if you so desire. Layering is important for this tour, so dress warm and always pack one more layer than you think you’ll need when birding the coast of Maine in winter!

​

To get an idea of what to expect, see the 2025 trip report.

 

We'll be doing all of the driving, so you can relax. And to make it even easier, we have two pick-up times and locations:

9:00am

Freeport Wild Bird Supply

541 Route One, Freeport.

 

or 9:20am

Marginal Way Park & Ride

(opposite the intersection with Diamond St, just east of Franklin Ave), Portland.

 

(Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time at either location, and please let us know where you will be meeting us)

 

We'll return to these locations to drop you off at 2:40pm (Portland) and 3:00pm (Freeport).

 

This tour is limited to 12 participants, so sign up soon! 

​

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​

Birds On Tap℠ - Roadtrip! Warblers and Wort

 

May 2026 TBA; 8:00am - 2:00pm

​Cost - $115

​

Portland Explorer (formerly Maine Brews Cruise) and Freeport Wild Bird Supply are excited to continue our collaboration for 6 very special outings in 2025. 

 

These unique, relaxed birding and beer-ing adventures that you have come to love combine great local birding at seasonal hotspots with visits to sample the delicious creations of some of our favorite local breweries. These tours are a perfect introduction to birding and/or craft beer, and a great opportunity to travel with significant others, friends, and family that have interest in one topic, while your interest is primarily in the other (for now!). Seasonal birding hotspots and great local beer - a perfect combination, and we'll even do all of the driving!

 

May means warbler migration, and the destination for Warblers and Wort will hit two of Maine’s most famous springtime migrant traps, Portland’s Evergreen Cemetery and nearby Capisic Pond Park. Two oases in the urban jungle, featuring water sources and a mix of various habitats, help concentrate migrant birds that found themselves in or over the city come sunrise. After migrating all night, tired travelers look for refuge: food, water, and shelter, and urban greenspaces are absolutely critical for refueling.  

 

Warbler diversity will rapidly be increasing, over 15 species possible by the middle of May, depending on the progression of the season. Other species, such as sparrows, raptors, and other Neotropical Migrants such as orioles and tanagers are also on the move, increasing our chances of seeing a diversity of species. If the cemetery’s apples and cherries are blooming, we may be in for quite a treat as these are absolute magnets for hungry migrants.  Meanwhile, most trees have yet to fully leaf out, making them easier to spot! 

​

It’s sometimes hard to leave Evergreen on a busy spring morning, but if we do, it will be for the very short trip over to Capisic Pond Park, where we’ll continue to seek migrants of all shapes and sizes.

​

After about 3 hours of birding, we will be transported to two of our great local producers to sample their offerings and learn their styles. Our brewery destinations are subject to change, but the current plan is to visit Orange Bike Brewing and Camp Pennant. 

 

Orange Bike Brewing in Portland, Maine, pioneers in the local craft beer scene by offering a 100% gluten-free lineup, utilizing alternative grains such as millet, buckwheat, and quinoa. Their beers, ranging from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, are meticulously crafted to ensure rich flavors that appeal to all beer enthusiasts, not just those avoiding gluten. Each brew is a testament to Orange Bike’s innovative approach to inclusive brewing practices.

 

Camp Pennant in Portland excels in producing a varied selection of craft beers, which perfectly complement their signature wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas. Their brewing focus is on crisp, refreshing lagers and rich, complex ales that capture the essence of Maine’s brewing heritage. The waterfront location not only enhances the dining experience but also inspires the seasonal and locally sourced ingredients in their brews.

  

The samples are included in the tour price, and Portland Explorer will supply a light snack (TBD) and water. Bring binoculars. We also recommend bringing a lunch or additional snack if you so desire. Light-colored, long-sleeve shirt and pants are highly recommended to reduce the nuisances of biting insects and trails may be muddy so wear appropriate footwear.

 

We'll be doing all of the driving, so you can relax. And to make it even easier, we have two pick-up times and locations:

8:00am

Freeport Wild Bird Supply

541 Route One, Freeport.

 

or 8:20am

Marginal Way Park & Ride

(opposite the intersection with Diamond St, just east of Franklin Ave), Portland.

 

(Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time at either location, and please let us know where you will be meeting us)

 

We'll return to these locations to drop you off at 1:40pm (Portland) and 2:00pm (Freeport).

 

This tour is limited to 12 participants, so sign up soon! 

 

For a taste of what’s in store, here’s the trip report from our outings in 2025 and 2024. 

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