Yes, You Really Can Cruise Around This Maine Lake In A Car

If you have spent much time in Western Maine, there is a good chance that you have been through the tiny Maine town of Naples.  Located on Route 302, Naples is a quintessential tourist town.  The heart of the town is the causeway which, during the summer months, is filled with people taking advantage of all of the seasonal businesses.  Restaurants, bars, shops, the dock for the Songo River Queen, and the marina.

In addition to the jetski rentals, paddle boat rentals, and the chance to take a ride on a replica paddle wheeler, there is a newer offering that really sticks out.  You can now book a ride in an Amphicar!

What Is An Amphicar?

If you have seen any videos about unique and strange vehicles from the 1960s, there is a good chance you have seen an Amphicar.

As the name implies, they are amphibious cars.  Looking much like a classic convertible, the vehicles are just as comfortable driving down the road as they are cruising on the waters of Long Lake.

These unique vehicles were built between 1961 and 1965 in West Germany.  In total, just under 4,000 of the vehicles were manufactured.  The vehicles were powered by a straight 4 gasoline motor that drive the wheels (when on the road) and the propellers.  It was steered the same way on the water as it was on land.  The tires acted as rudders.  This made the vehicle a lot less maneuverable than a normal boat.

This video really shows what these babies can do

How Can I Take A Ride In One?

Amphicar Tours gives the average person a chance to take a ride in one of these cool vehicles.

The trip, which lasts for about 20 minutes, will take passengers down the Chute River and into Brandy Pond.

The website describes the trip as:

Looking for a post-meal adventure? Take a 20-minute guided tour on the waters of Chute River (Brandy Pond) while riding in a vintage Amphicar—a rare amphibious vehicle that can drive on land and float on water. (Yes we really drive you into the water!)

The trip is $125 and is open to between 3 and 4 passengers - depending on weight and other factors.

Book your ride by clicking HERE