Launching Bird's Eye Maine in a Pandemic

In the summer of 2020, as much of the world stood still, I launched Bird’s Eye Maine with a simple dream and a 2008 Sea Pro powered by a 200hp Mercury engine. With a newly earned U.S. Coast Guard captain's license in hand, I tied up at Fore Points Marina in downtown Portland and set off to explore Casco Bay, eager to introduce people to its raw, coastal beauty.

Navigating a brand-new business during a pandemic was anything but easy. Yet, ironically, the nature of my service—private, outdoor tours—perfectly aligned with social distancing needs. Word spread organically, and my earliest customers praised the peace, privacy, and perspective the experience provided. One guest, Beth from Maine, told me I had "opened her eyes once again to the wonders of this beautiful bay."

That first season, I spent hours learning Casco Bay’s nuances, meeting other tour operators, and dreaming up future tour offerings. There was no website yet—just me, the boat, and word-of-mouth. I even took the boat as far north as Eastport, Maine, the easternmost coastline in the U.S.—a milestone adventure with some close family.

Starting Bird’s Eye Maine from scratch was equal parts challenge and exhilaration. I was laying the groundwork for something I hoped would endure, a private boat tour company that offered real connection to Maine’s coast. And in that first year, it felt like just the beginning.