Guided tide pooling
Tide pool (n.): a pool of salt water left (as in a rock basin) by an ebbing tide
Tide pooling is the act of exploring tide pools and observing the life within them. Unlike the flashy critters of a tropical reef, life in New England’s tide pools is often discreet. With Turning Tides, you have a guide to teach you all about the world between the tides and beyond them- from critter identification to Maine’s maritime culture.
DISCLAIMER: Tide pooling requires navigating slippery rocks in close proximity to the ocean. Closed-toed shoes MUST be worn. Tide pooling may be an unsuitable activity for folks who experience limited mobility or are at heightened risk of injury in the event of a fall. You assume all risk when participating in tide pooling activities with Turning Tides ME and will be required to sign waivers prior to your tide pool experience. By booking, you acknowledge and agree to our terms.
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Private guided tide pooling session
One hour of guided tide pooling in Biddeford Pool, ME. Meet fascinating marine life in a quintessential Maine coast setting.
Groups of 2-8.
Pricing: Groups of 2 to 4 book at $60/person. Groups of 5 to 8 book at $55/person.
Mainers receive 15% off using code LOCAL15 (ME driver’s license required).
College students receive 15% off using code STUDENT15 (college ID required).
*Sessions for larger groups and sessions outside of Biddeford Pool may be requested through the scheduling form linked below.
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Special requests
Turning Tides wants to facilitate your staff outings, school fieldtrips, beachy birthday parties, and other fun events!
If you want to request a session at a time that is not on our regular calendar, at a location outside of Biddeford Pool, or for a group of nine or more people, fill out the form linked below.
You will receive a response with scheduling information and a quote within 24 hours.*
*If you don’t see a response within 24 hours, check your spam folder!
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Community tide pooling events
Turning Tides hosts community tide pooling events once a month during the lowest tides of the month. These events are open to up to 15 people, and tickets are priced at $35/person.
Keep an eye out for other events as well in collaboration with other local businesses!
FAQs
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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.
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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.
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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.
Binoculars, as we often see sea birds at our tide pooling sites.
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We welcome children of all ages 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.
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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.
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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.
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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!