While researching this cruise I tried to come up with ways of exploring each port without spending a whole lot of money. Cruise excursions involving busses aren't ideal in that passengers are herded on and off a bus with minimal time (and sometimes no time at all) spent at each location. Private tours might be a better choice, but they're also pricier.
As Portland didn't seem to offer a whole lot locally, we decided it best to debark, find the local Tourist Information kiosk in the cruise terminal, and get a map.
Anthem of the Seas is HUGE! Parked at Ocean Gateway Terminal, Portland, ME.
Yes, it was chilly out, but we were both dressed for it.
We first walked west along Commercial Street. I'd heard of Holy Donut, a local donut shop famous for selling out by 10 a.m. each morning. I wasn't sure where exactly the shop was located, so I activated Google Maps on my phone and asked Google where to go. She brought us through the Old Port section of town and right to its doorstep.
We each got a donut for the road, Grant something maple-y and me something lemon-y, walking north through Bayside, then turning east through East Bayside and finally to the East End and Fort Allen Park. Portland is a charming city, filled with old architecture, restaurants, galleries and museums.
This is actually an observatory.
A lot of homeowners got into the spirit of Halloween.
Even the pets are friendly.
Another delightful cemetery.
We eventually circled around to East End Beach. The homes in the East End are large and lovely and make me want to live here at least part-time.
East End Beach
Arriving at East End Beach we continued south and west along the Eastern Promenade and Fort Allen Park.
Fort Allen was active during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Also displayed is the mast and bridge of the USS Portland, a heavy cruiser that played a role in all four Pacific aircraft carrier battles of World War II.
Grant at the bridge of the USS Portland with the mast behind
Fort Allen
The Anthem in the distance.
Go Dodgers!
By the time we reached the ship, my feet had had enough and I was happy to return to the Lido deck and a nice lunch. Our day in Portland was wonderful and I look forward to returning to the city again.
In time, the Anthem pulled away from the pier, cruised past Ft. Williams Park and the Portland Head Light and headed out to sea.
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