Contact Captain John with any question!
-Licensed U.S. Coast Guard
-Maine Registered Guide
-Veteran Owned Buisness
📞 1‑(603)‑661‑2579
📧 john@ybcharters.com
⭐ Meet the Captain
Captain John Tucker Owner -USCG Licensed Captain -U.S. Army Veteran-Maine Registered Guide
I’ve called York, Maine home since 2003, and I’ve spent more than two decades fishing these waters, exploring the coastline, and raising my family to love the ocean as much as I do. Before settling in York, I grew up fishing the North Shore of Massachusetts and spent years running the coast from Portland, Maine down to Beverly Ma. The water has always been part of my life.
After serving in Iraq, the ocean became more than a place to fish it became a place of peace, clarity, and grounding. Being out on the water helped me reset and it’s a feeling I love sharing with others.
Whether you’re here for a lighthouse cruise, a run out to Boone Island, a sunset trip, or a visit to the Isles of Shoals, my goal is simple: give you a safe, relaxed, and memorable experience on the water I know best.
I enjoy teaching guests about the local area, pointing out wildlife, sharing stories from the harbor, and showing families and visitors the beauty that made me fall in love with York.
I hope you’ll join me for a trip on the water. – Captain John
Nubble Light/Boone Island Scenic Cruise/ Family Fish
A relaxing voyage past the historic Cape Neddick Light. Perfect for families, photography, and taking in the rugged Maine shoreline. Up to 6 passengers. If fishing is the goal we got you covered we can drop a line or pull lobster traps.
Bookings are available Monday through Sunday at 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00PM
2 hours $300 group price not to exceed 6 passengers
Deposit required at booking. Online booking closes 12 hours before the trip. If you do not see a trip just call, contact Captain John
Striped Bass Fishing Charter
Chase the legendary Maine Striped Bass. We provide all professional tackle, bait, and expert coaching to ensure an exciting day on the water. Up to 4 anglers.
Striped bass fishing charters.
Bookings available
Monday–Friday evenings, departing the dock at 6:00 PM. Saturday and Sunday striped bass trips depart at 6 AM or 6 PM.
4 hours $650 group price not to exceed 4 passengers
6 hours $850
Deposit required at booking. Online booking closes 12 hours before the trip. If you do not see a trip just call, last‑minute bookings, contact Captain John
Nubble Light Sunset Cruise
Experience the Nubble Lighthouse in a stunning new light during our moonlit sunset scenic cruise. Settle in for a peaceful two‑hour journey along the York coastline as the historic beacon blinks against the evening sky.
Want to elevate the vibe? Tell us and we’ll turn on the Ultimate Yacht Rock Experience — smooth classics, warm ocean air, and the perfect golden‑hour soundtrack. It’s a relaxed, feel‑good sunset cruise with a nostalgic twist… so get ready to sing along.
Up to 6 passengers.
Booking are available 7 days a week.
Leaves dock at 6:30PM in summer
2 hours $400 group pricing not to exceed 6 paasengers.
Deposit required at booking. Online booking closes 12 hours before the trip. If you do not see a trip, just call for bookings, contact Captain John
Water Shuttle
Star Island visit
Self-Guided Tours (Free): Visitors can explore the island, historical Gosport Village, Caswell Cemetery, and the Stone Chapel on their own at no cost.
Star Island is one of the nine Isles
of Shoals located seven miles
off the coast of New Hampshire and Maine. All are welcome to explore
the island for a day, enjoy a meal,
spend the night,
Visit Star Island website for more information.
Once ashore, you’re free to:
-Walk the entire island
-Enjoy the historic Oceanic Hotel
-Grab a meal or snack
-Explore Gosport Harbor
-Kayak, relax, or take photos
-Stay overnight if you choose
Click link for more information
These trips include transportation to and from Star Island. Call for trip booking it's a one-hour boat ride each way. Sat and Sun only!
$50 PER passengers ($200 MIN)
Deposit required Call For bookings, contact Captain John
Custom Private Charters
York Beach Charters offers fully customizable private trips for up to 6 passengers. Whether you're celebrating, exploring, relaxing, or planning something special, we can build the perfect experience on the water.
Available Custom Tours & Experiences
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Isles of Shoals Cruise
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Star Island Scenic Cruise
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Nubble Lighthouse Cruise
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Boone Island Lighthouse Run
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Sunset Cruises
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Sunrise Trips
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Wildlife & Bird Watching
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Photography & Videography Sessions
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Harbor Tours & Coastal Sightseeing
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Striped Bass Fishing / Scenic Combo Trips
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Private Family Cruises
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Romantic Couples Cruises
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Engagements & Surprise Proposals
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Wedding Photos / Newlywed Cruises
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Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
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Birthday Cruises
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Family Reunions & Special Events
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Corporate Outings & Team Trips
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Custom “You Name It” Adventures
Call or email to design your perfect experience: john@ybcharters.com
Water Shuttle to Pepperrell Cove — Dinner/Lunch by Boat
Make your night out unforgettable with a private boat shuttle from York Harbor to Pepperrell Cove. Skip the traffic, skip the parking, and arrive by water at one of the most beautiful dining spots on the Seacoast.
We are an approved taxi, so you can step right off the boat and walk directly to your dinner reservation.
Trip Details
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Private shuttle for up to 6 passengers
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About 1 hour each way
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Smooth, scenic ride along the coastline
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Drop‑off at Pepperrell Cove’s designated water taxi area
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Optional return pickup after dinner
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Perfect for date nights, celebrations, and groups
Pricing
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$300 one‑way
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$450 round‑trip (drop‑off + pickup)
Book Your Shuttle Call or Email john@ybcharters.com to reserve your dinner shuttle. Get lunch or dinner reservation at Pepperrell Cove - Pepperrell Cove | Experience the Food, the VIEW and the Vibe
Charter Offerings & Rates
Flexible Crew Booking
We get it — getting the crew together isn’t always easy, and plans can change fast. That’s why York Beach Charters offers flexible booking.
The calendar is always open 30 days out for bookings, and once summer really kicks in, we’ll keep adding more dates. When you book, you’re locked in for that day and time — but if something comes up, no worries.
Outside of 24 hours, you can reschedule yourself using the link in your email. Pick any open date. Can’t make that one either? Change it again. No stress. Need to cancel no worries full deposit refund.
You’re only locked in during the last 24 hours before your trip.
Hope this makes planning easier for you and your crew.
— Captain John
⭐ What Guests Can Do on Your York River & Coastal Cruise
Step aboard guests can enjoy:
🌅 1. Sunset Cruising
Glide along the York River as the sky lights up in orange and pink. It’s calm, quiet, and perfect for photos.
🦞 2. Explore York Harbor
See fishing boats, working waterfronts, and the historic charm of one of Maine’s most scenic harbors.
🌊 3. Coastal Sightseeing
Cruise past:
• Nubble Lighthouse
• Long sands Beach
• The rocky shoreline
• Beautiful oceanfront homes
🐦 4. Wildlife Spotting
Guests often see:
• Seals
• Ospreys
• Bald eagles
• Harbor porpoises
📸 5. Photography & Relaxation
The boat becomes a floating front‑row seat for:
• Lighthouse photos
• Harbor views
• Sunset shots
• Family pictures
🎣 6. Light Fishing (Optional)
If you want to offer it:
• Drop a line for schoolie stripers
• Let kids try catching their first fish
• Keep it casual and fun
🥂 7. Bring Drinks & Snacks
Guests can bring:
• Wine/Beer
• Cocktails
• Dessert
• Charcuterie or snacks
It turns the cruise into a floating after‑dinner experience.
💬 8. Local History & Storytelling
You can share:
• Harbor history
• Lighthouse stories
• Local fishing culture
• Fun facts about the coastline
🌌 9. Early Night‑Sky Viewing
As the sun sets, the stars start to show — a peaceful way to end the night.
Rates include fuel and all equipment. Custom‑duration trips are available upon request. Trips under two hours are permitted but carry a $300 minimum charge. There are no discounts for returning early at the customer’s request or for late arrivals. Gratuity for the crew is customary and greatly appreciated. Military discount available ask during booking.
Visuals of the Voyage
Capturing the magic of the Maine coastline, from the historic Nubble Lighthouse to the thrill of the of the catch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of tours and charters do you offer?
We specialize in personalized Maine boat tours, featuring our signature Nubble Light scenic cruises for up to 6 passengers and professional striped bass fishing charters for up to 4 anglers along the scenic York coastline.
What should I bring on the boat?
We recommend dressing in layers as the ocean breeze can be cool. Essential items include high-SPF sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses. Feel free to bring snacks and beverages; we provide a cooler with fresh ice for your convenience.
What is your weather policy?
Safety is our absolute priority. While we operate in light rain, the Captain may cancel or reschedule trips if wind or sea state conditions are deemed unsafe. In such cases, we offer priority rescheduling or a full refund.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made more than 24- hours prior to departure are eligible for a full refund. For cancellations within the 24-hour window, the deposit is non-refundable unless we are able to fill the vacated time slot.
Where is parking located for the charters?
Dedicated public parking is located at the York Harbor town lot. Upon booking confirmation, you will receive a detailed welcome packet including a map, arrival instructions, and our specific docking location.
What is included in my charter?
We provide all necessary Coast Guard-approved safety equipment, top-tier fishing gear, fresh bait, and professional tackle. You only need to bring personal items like sunscreen and appropriate maritime apparel.
The Spirit of York Beach
Experience the rugged beauty of York, Maine, through the eyes of seasoned local mariners. From the iconic silhouette of Nubble Lighthouse to the adrenaline of a striped bass run, York Beach Charters brings the Atlantic’s most compelling stories to life. Our personalized tours and expert expeditions are crafted for those who value authenticity and deep coastal connection.