Upon booking, you will receive an email with exact details.

Generally, you should expect to meet your tide pool guide, Aubrey, in beautiful Biddeford Pool. From the meeting location, we will take about a 10-minute walk along the coast to our tide pooling site.

We will spend approximately one hour exploring the tide pools. The critters that we find will depend on tidal height and sheer luck, though it is guaranteed that you will see wildlife on your tour.

After tide pooling, you will have the option to head back with your guide or continue tide pooling on your own. The walk to and from the site presents an excellent opportunity to birdwatch and ask your guide any coastal questions you may have.

If you do choose to continue tide pooling, you are encouraged to reach out to Aubrey via email if you find anything you have questions about!

The exact location within Biddeford Pool is subject to change based on environmental conditions.

Turning Tides utilizes multiple tide pooling sites throughout Biddeford Pool. You will receive detailed directions via email upon booking. The time you book, and the subsequent tidal height you’ve booked at, will dictate the site we visit during your tour.

Any special considerations for sites requested outside of Biddeford Pool will be discussed after you fill out our special request form.

We welcome children of all ages on private guided tide pooling sessions but encourage parents to assess the suitability of this activity for their individual children.

You must book a slot for any children who will be joining, and any child under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

You should wear closed-toed shoes. You will want them to either be water shoes, or waterproof.

Clothing you don’t mind getting wet.

Light layers, as it can get windy on shore.

Anything you might bring on a hike, including sun protection, bug spray, water, or snacks. Be mindful to keep sun protection and bug spray off of your hands so that you do not introduce it into the tide pools.

Binoculars, as we often see sea birds at our tide pooling sites.

In a word, no. Most of our tide pooling sites strictly prohibit dogs. This is to protect the wildlife Turning Tides ME wants to grow appreciation for. If you show up to your tour with a (non-service) dog, your guide will leave and no refunds will be issued.

One of the nice things about Maine is that we have very few marine critters that can seriously harm you. However, crabs do pinch, washed up jellies do sting, and you should always be careful when in close proximity with wildlife.

We do not expect tips for guide services.

In lieu of a tip, a positive review on Google or Facebook is priceless for a small business!