The best way to enjoy Maine during autumn is by being outside. You’d like that might be a no-brainer, but in many states it’s already getting too chilly to spend a lot of time outdoors. Much of Vacationland has been lucky to have higher temps this year, making it a little bit easier to comfortably enjoy the changing fall leaves. There are lots of wonderful walks and hikes you can take, but for something a little extra special consider this old-fashioned paddle boat ride on Long Lake. So many people expect Maine boat trips to include the salty sea, making this a fun and unique alternative.

The Song River Queen II was built in 1982 as a replica of the beloved and unmistakable Mississippi River Paddle Wheelers.
Songo River Queen II / Facebook
"The Queen" as she is known is 93 feet long, 23 feet wide, and weighs over 100 tons which means rides for the up to 350 passengers are smooth and comfortable, no matter the weather.
Songo River Queen II / Facebook
There are two decks including an upper deck with a canopy allowing passengers to be outdside in all weather - both hot sun and rain. The bottom deck is fully enclosed for those who prefer to simply look at nature versus being in it.
The large size of The Queen means it’s easy for weddings, parties, reunions, family reunions and many other events to be held on board.
Bentleystudent / TripAdvisor
Hungry? There’s a food court available on board for all passengers, as well as a cocktail bar that serves beer, wine, and liquor.
Songo River Queen II / Facebook

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The scenery surrounding Long Lake is impressive at any time of year, but in the fall the sky lights up with the changing colors of the trees.
bobtravis / Flickr
bobtravis / Flickr
Each trip travels up the eastern shore of the lake, crossing over and then returning down the western shore which means the scenery is constantly changing.
neilmac1947 / TripAdvisor
Passengers on all trips will show off the Causeway, Mt. Washington, Birch Point, Long Island, Arrowhead Point and many lakefront camps, ranging from large to small.
bobtravis / Flickr
Trips range from 6 to 12 hours, depending on the length of the journey passengers have selected.
ricoslounge / Flickr

After Labor Day the Songo River Queen II enters a post-season schedule, running on weekends beginning after Labor Day through October 8, 2018. These post-season weekend cruises leave the dock at noon and return at 2 p.m. You can find the dock at The Causeway, Route 302, 841 Roosevelt Trail in Naples, Maine. You can call them on 207-693-6861. For more information, visit the Songo River Queen II website and follow them on Facebook.

The two-hour Long Lake cruise prices are $25 for adults, $13 for children aged 4-12 and free for children under 4.

We also love this boat cruise in Damariscotta. The “leef peepers” tour offers the chance to see some of the best foliage in the midcoast without having to hop in the car and plan your own route.

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