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The 9 Best Boat Tours in Connecticut!

Take advantage of Connecticut’s 253 gorgeous miles of shoreline while on a river or Long Island Sound cruise. These ten cruises take guests through some of the most picturesque parts of Connecticut, providing unique vantage points of well-known attractions from the comfort of the vessel. In addition to learning more about the history of the ship and coastal sights, several of these cruises offer encounters with Connecticut’s wildlife.

RiverQuest, Haddam, CT

This is the ultimate nature and scenic tour of Connecticut. Float along the Connecticut River with RiverQuest, while the knowledgeable staff point out water birds, such as ospreys, cormorants, and Bald Eagles, as well as famous sights along the lower Connecticut River. Tours vary depending on the season, but numerous offerings are available from February through October, with options for sunset cruises, family-friendly tours, fall foliage viewings, and nature-focused outings.

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Project Oceanology, Groton, CT

Kids and adults alike will get a taste of being a marine biologist with a public boat cruise run by Project O. Summertime cruises allow participants to use oceanographic equipment to monitor the waters of the Long Island Sound, while spring cruises take you to watch the Harbor Seals near Fishers Island. Project O also offers excellent summer camps for children interested in learning more about the environment.

Sabino Steamboat, Mystic Seaport, Mystic, CT

See the Mystic Seaport and downtown Mystic from a different vantage point by taking a cruise down the Mystic River on this historic 1908 steamboat. This ship is considered a National Historic Landmark as it is one of the last operating coal-fired steamboats, making any cruise even more special for visitors. Scenic cruises are offered six days per week, weather permitting, with both afternoon and evening time slots available.

Spirit of the Sound, Maritime Aquarium, Norwalk, CT

Run by the Maritime Aquarium, the Spirit of the Sound is a 64-foot-long catamaran that runs on electric power. Cruise along the Long Island Sound to learn about marine life or enjoy an evening sunset cruise. A variety of other cruising options are available including several history-focused tours that head to New London for Sailest.

Connecticut River Museum, Essex, CT

After viewing the collections and learning about the history of the Connecticut River through the museum’s exhibits, sign up for a cruise along the Connecticut River. Enjoy unrivaled views of the river from aboard the Onrust, a replica of one of the earliest western-style ships built in America. The boat is a marvel in itself, so be sure to view snap a few photos while aboard! In addition to cruises offered five days per week in the summertime, winter cruises are also available for those who are willing to brave cold weather to see Bald Eagles. These winter cruises are operated by RiverQuest, the first cruising company listed in this article.

Argia Mystic, Mystic, CT

Hop aboard the 81-foot Argia schooner for a tour of the scenic Mystic River, from which you’ll enjoy views of downtown Mystic, Mystic Seaport, and quaint lighthouses. If you want to get in on the action while aboard, you can help the crew with the sails. Tours are offered daily and run for approximately two hours. Senior citizen and child prices are also available, lowering the cost for family trips.

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Thimble Islands Cruise, Branford, CT

Learn about the history of the Thimble Islands with a 45-minute tour aboard the Sea Mist. Over the summer, public cruises depart numerous times per day, allowing a cruise to fit into your schedule no matter the duration of your stay in the area. In the Sea Mist, you’ll also cruise in comfort, as ample indoor and outdoor seating is available; a bar and bathroom are both available too.

Sheffield Island Cruise, Norwalk, CT

On a Sheffield Island Cruise, you’ll learn about the history of the island as well as the 150-year-old Sheffield Island Lighthouse, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. And don’t forget to bring along your camera to take photographs of the beautiful Connecticut coastline and the lighthouse. Numerous cruise types are available from acoustic cruises with live music to romantic sunset cruises.

Mystic River Cruises, Mystic, CT

Coast along the Mystic River in a luxury speedboat to enjoy downtown Mystic and the Mystic River Bascule Bridge from a unique vantage point. Snap photos that will get hundreds of likes on Facebook and Instagram, particularly those taken during the sunset cruise. Breakfast and lunch cruises are also available, during which you’re provided a meal to be enjoyed while watching the scenic area float by.

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Our Day Trip to Haddam on the Connecticut River with RiverQuest Cruises

If you are looking for day trip ideas, why not consider spending the day in Haddam, Connecticut and spend some time cruising on the Connecticut River on a Riverquest cruise . We spent a day on the Connecticut River with Riverquest, courtesy of our friends from Connecticut Audubon Society , and had a great time. We met some fun people, learned a lot about the area, saw Osprey in their nests, and spent the rest of the afternoon on the banks of the Connecticut River, took in the scenery on the banks of the River next to the Goodspeed Opera House, ate local ice cream, and ended the day at the Blue Oar for dinner. Take a look at what we did and see if you might want to spend the day in Haddam too.

We started our day trip with a RiverQuest cruise. Mark and Mindy were delightful people and kept everything running smoothly. Along our journey, they taught us about the local area, and pointed out places of interests and shared local history.

Riverquest leaves from their dock at Eagle Landing State Park in Haddam and cruises south towards the mouth of the Connecticut River. You will see the Goodspeed Opera House (located directly across the river) and the Goodspeed Airport . You may see the resident Bald Eagle if you look close enough.

Riverquest does both private charters and public cruises. Their public cruises include kids cruises, afternoon, and sunset cruise. There are also special cruises with music, pizza, osprey viewing, and more. Check their schedule for specific dates and details.

Hats were the order of the day because it was definitely hot out there on the Connecticut River. Many people brought binoculars but if you didn’t the Riverquest folks had lots to share. Bring a picnic lunch and your favorite beverage to enjoy on the cruise.

Here’s an interesting thing you might not know. There is a floating Hot Dog stand in the middle of the Connecticut River. Weiners on Water has been serving up hotdogs and other food for over 20 years. Just pull your boat along side and enjoy a chili, cheese dog while enjoying the scenic views on the Connecticut River.

All along our cruise we spotted Osprey nests. The Osprey come back every year and build their nests on specially constructed towers. They arrive in March, build the nests in April, lay their eggs and the hacklings arrive the second half of May. The Osprey chicks try out their wings mid July and by August the whole family is gone down south to spend the winter. Check out the live osprey cam of the osprey nest at Milford Point Coastal Center .

We shared the water with the Becky Thatcher , another cruiseline out of Essex. As you continue down the river, you will pass by Gillette Castle and State Park , former ho me to famous Actor William Gillette , the Chester/Hadlyme Ferry , the second oldest operating ferry in Connecticut and Mount Saint John’s School for Boys in Deep River.

After our wonderful cruise, we ate the picnic lunch we brought on one of the many picnic tables that dot the lawn of Eagle Landing State Park. Eagle Landing State Park is where you pick up the Riverquest cruises. It seems lots of other folks had the same idea. What a beautiful and peaceful view we had to eat our lunch.

After lunch we decided to walk around the small town of East Haddam . There are several good places to eat or get some ice cream. Try the Hillside Sweet Shoppe for some delicious ice cream. I had the Black Raspberry ice cream and it was delicious. The waffle cone was even better than Ben and Jerry’s. We heard that the La Vita is great for Italian food and the Gelston House is another local favorite. Both are conveniently located right smack in the middle of town across from the Goodspeed Opera House.

If you are looking to do a little shopping or browse for some must-have item, visit the Goodspeed’s Station Country store that is located in the train station across the “singing bridge” near Eagle Landing State Park.

We stayed awhile longer on our day trip to Haddam and sat by the Connecticut River on the lawn next to the Goodspeed Opera House. It was such a beautiful day that we wanted to linger just a bit longer. Here is where we met a local woman who told us about the Blue Oar .

We have lived in Connecticut for over 30 years and never heard about the Blue Oar. It seems we were about the only people who didn’t know about it because when we arrived the place was packed. We learned that the Blue Oar has been in business since 1997. On most Summer weekends there is a line down the road and a waiting list to get in. We were lucky this night because while it was packed we were able to find seats almost immediately. It is a seasonal outdoor restaurant, opening on Mother’s Day and closing late September. Be advised, it is “CASH ONLY”, credit or debit cards are not accepted and they do not take reservations.

The Blue Oar is a BYOB (bring your own booze) and we saw all kinds of people who setup their tables with their own tablecloths, flowers, and fancy wine glasses. We were totally jealous and vowed to bring our own “fancy smancy” setup next time.

From the outside, the Blue Oar doesn’t look like much. You actually think, why did I stop here, and then you step just inside the fence and you immediately know why it is such a popular spot. The atmosphere – and later the food. You are immediately transported to an island in the Caribbean when you step inside the fence. The Caribbean music playing in the background sets the tone and it is, after all, finally summer in Connecticut. Summer in Connecticut is the best place to be because it is warm and sometimes hot, but rarely humid. This night was just perfect for sitting outside and watching boats cruise up and down the Connecticut River. Some even stopped and docked to come and eat at the Blue Oar.

We sat under the covered deck in the small building that houses the kitchen and had a great view of the people sitting at the picnic tables below and of the dock and water. At night small twinkling lights illuminate the lower and upper decks.

Come for the atmosphere but stay for the food. There is so much to choose from at the Blue Oar. From Watermelon salad to sauteed mussels to roasted red pepper burger to Cajun Catfish to Grilled Salmon and for dessert you must try the Key Lime Cheesecake.

We started off with a light and refreshing watermelon salad with feta cheese and mint, then moved on to Cajun catfish over a black bean salsa and lightly grilled green beans and grilled salmon with pineapple sauce over rice and lightly grilled green beans. We finished the delightful meal with a Key Lime Mousse while chatting and enjoying the wonderful evening along the Connecticut River.

If you didn’t bring a bottle of wine or beer, you can grab a refreshing Stewart’s Soda .

If you still haven’t found enough to do on your day trip to Haddam, why not take in a show at the Goodspeed Opera House. We found just enough to do and our perfect day trip in Haddam, Connecticut ended with another glimpse of Riverquest taking a sunset cruise.

5 thoughts on “Our Day Trip to Haddam on the Connecticut River with RiverQuest Cruises”

The cruise sounds great and I can’t wait to take it! So much in CT is right in my our little backyard! Oh, and the food looks great! Will definitely pack my best linens and take a ride out to sample it.

Nice shots of the ospreys!

I remember going on one of those river cruises when I was a kid (and riding the Essex steam train). It’s a lovely area in Haddam.

Thank you for the great review of the Blue Oar! I am the owner of the Blue Oar and just wanted to make a couple of corrections ; my husband and I opened the Blue Oar in 1997 ( not 1930 even though it feels like it sometimes : ) ) and it was never a bakery . Hope to see you back again this summer.

Thanks for the updates. We will definitely make the changes ASAP. We love the Blue Oar and went back several times after our first visit. Can’t wait to come back next Summer

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Becky Thatcher Riverboat Becky Thatcher Riverboat Becky Thatcher Riverboat Becky Thatcher Riverboat

Cruise aboard the Becky Thatcher riverboat and delight in the breathtaking scenery of the Connecticut River and historic landmarks including Goodspeed Opera House and Gillette Castle. Or, enjoy the golden hours of sunset aboard a Friday Night Sunset Cruise. Becky Thatcher is also available for private charters. Passengers board the Becky Thatcher riverboat from the Essex Steam Train at Deep River Landing.

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Connecticut River Cruise

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Operating from:

Saint Clement's Castle & Marina

1931 portland cobalt road, portland, ct 06480, captain wheeler(860)559-6745.

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CONNECTICUT RIVER CRUISES

Fares are for the cruise described. Cruises may be tailored to your itinerary, budget and goals. The listed fares may change based on your customization. The fares are PER PASSENGER.

Passengers provide, towels, food, and beverage. Ipod/iphone/USB compatible stereo system is available. Air conditioning, refrigerator, coolers, two burner stove, grill, toaster oven, and microwave are available.

You are welcome to tour Blantyre when planning a cruise.

Captain Wheeler

Call to schedule your cruise and confirm booking.

A single $20.00 dock fee is added to all cruises. Card payments are processed using SQUARE: additional charge is 2.75% +$1.50.

Email: [email protected]

Cruises may change or cancel due to inclement weather, flooding, charters, and maintenance. Fares may change depending on fuel cost.

© Copyrighted, 2024, All rights reserved. Connecticut River Cruise & Charter, LLC

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LADY KATHARINE CRUISES (Old Saybrook) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Discover and Explore the Connecticut River aboard the vessel “Keeper”

Gift certificates.

Give the perfect gift this Holiday Season! Purchase a Private Charter! Your recipient may bring up to six family or friends. Two hours on-the-water $500, more time added, $150/hour.

Private Charters

Create your exclusive journey on the river departing from Haddam. Go north or south, a minimum of two hours = to $500 for up to six guests total. More time available at $150/hour.

Selden Island

Take a circumnavigation cruise around Selden Island State Park on your Private Charter. This is a very special, peaceful, beautiful cruise in an untouched area.

River Stewardship

Be a part of the solution! We collected invasive Water Chestnut in Summer 2023 and will be out again in 2024. Come and volunteer to help us! Push a “Contact Us” button for more info.

Small Group Personal Cruises, up to six people

On your personal, exclusive cruise, you choose where to go and at what time of day; serene morning, mid-day, sunset or moon rise. Keeper will be cruising in early Spring thru November. If desired, bring your own food and favorite beverage. There is a head (bathroom) on board and a roomy cabin to get out of the sun or rain, or to warm up in chilly weather.

Photography

For photographers, experienced or not, there will be plenty of deck space to take photos from. Keeper is very quiet and has a shallow draft so we can get close to shore.

Tree Swallow Migration

A very magical cruise! We will head south from Haddam to an island to see the Tree Swallows do their thing. This is a very popular three-ish hour cruise. On this intimate cruise, you will enjoy time with your closest friend(s) and make your own memories! Booking dates will be online soon or contact us!

Sightseeing

Pick out your own cruise itinerary to see the many sights along the river. If you chose South, we will see Gillette Castle, the Chester Hadlyme Ferry, lovely homes and Essex Harbor. If you chose North, we will go past lots of open space, a few State Parks, the Pratt Whitney dock. We can also do longer cruises to the lighthouses in Old Saybrook or Harbor Park area in Middletown.

The Boat “Keeper”

Keeper is a brand new 32′ by 12′ aluminum vessel manufactured in 2023 locally at Chester Boat Works in Deep River. SHOP LOCAL!! She has a comfy cabin, a head (bathroom) and plenty of room for up to six people. With her very shallow draft and large 8′ wide ramp, she can easily let people disembark on the shore and take kayaks and other items on board. Touch base with us for more ideas!

We look forward to seeing old and new friends aboard Connecticut River Expeditions new boat, KEEPER!!!

All the best, captain mark and mindy, be informed.

Join our mailing list for monthly updates.

Cruises Aboard Onrust

The Connecticut River Museum hosts the Onrust , a re-creation of the vessel Adriaen Block built in 1614.  Onrust is available for public cruises and private charters.  

Built over several years in upstate New York using traditional plans and means, the Onrust is a wholly unique ship that serves to educate and entertain visitors curious about the age of exploration, the fur trade, and our early colonial history.

River cruises are offered Thursdays through Sundays. While at dock, the Onrust is available for exploration. (based on staff availability). To book a private charter aboard Onrust , please call Cathy Malin, Director of Visitor Experience, 860.767.8269, extension 118, for more information.

Learn more about the history of the Onrust and the construction of this amazing replica at the official website of the Onrust Project.

For an “on the water” experience, take a look here:   Onrust River Cruise Photo Tour . Photo Credit: UCONN Agency Course Students

Cruise Rates

2:00 p.m.: $30

6:00 p. m.* : $40

Sunset Tree Swallow Sunset

6:00 p. m.* : $45

Reservations strongly recommended, Book online HERE to make a reservation.

Our Sunset Sails become Sunset Tree Swallow Sails for the month of September.

*Please note that cruise times change through late Summer as the days get shorter. Please check to confirm you have the correct departure time before arriving.

To book a private charter aboard Onrust , please contact the Visitor Experience department, 860.767.8269, extension 118, or email:  [email protected]

For information on educational programs aboard Onrust , please contact the education department at 860.767.8269 ext.121 or email: [email protected]

PURCHASE TICKETS

Onrust History

The Onrust (Dutch for “unrest” or “restless” ) was a Dutch Ship built by captain and explorer Adriaen Block and the crew of his ship, the Tyger, which had been destroyed by fire during the winter of 1613 in New York Bay.

Onrust’s construction took place near Manhattan during the winter of 1614. She was about 45 feet long, 12 feet in beam and had a load capacity of 16 tons. The ship was America’s first yacht.

Onrust was launched into upper New York Bay in April of 1614. She explored the New York coast and rivers, and sailed through the treacherous passage called ‘Hellegat’ (Dutch for ‘Hell’s hole’, later anglicized to Hell Gate) in the East River. She then went on to explore the harbors of Long Island and Connecticut, discovering

the Housatonic and Thames Rivers. She sailed up the Connecticut River past the future site of Hartford. The Onrust continued on to Narragansett and Buzzards Bays, and from there to Cape Cod.

The last historical account of the Onrust describes her 1616 expedition to explore the Delaware River under the command of Captain Cornelius Hendrickson.

Block was immortalized as namesake of the small island in Long Island Sound that is perennially popular with modern visitors to these waters. His voyage was used as the basis for the Dutch claim to the territory of New Netherland, an area that included parts of what are now the states of New York, Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

67 Main Street Essex, CT 06426 860.767.8269 [email protected] DIRECTIONS

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With your help, Connecticut River Museum has the ability to provide fun and educational services and events for our community.

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Aug/Sep – Tree Swallow Sunset Cruise

For the past 20 years RiverQuest has brought individuals and groups on intimate cruises aboard RiverQuest to a special spot on the Connecticut River where 100’s of thousands of Tree Swallows gather. After spending the day miles away, the swallows return each night to sleep in the reeds. They gather at sunset and perform aerial ballets forming an amazing display of art, coordination and cooperation!

Now RiverQuest is operated from the Connecticut River Museum and Cathy, Captains, and Crew are excited to continue the tradition. RiverQuest can maneuver  to allow perfect views from their open decks. RiverQuest’s flexible seating ensures everyone gets optimal “up close and personal” viewing.

Enjoy the entire evening! We will spend 2 hours on the water aboard RiverQuest.

The cruise is primarily about the Tree Swallows, however, it is also about the journey….there is so much to see while cruising along the river. Many birds are migrating through the area at this time; for the fall season, we have seen a record number of Bald Eagles and Great Egrets in past years. On board Naturalist(s), will educate you on the Tree Swallow phenomenon and all the other wildlife we see. On the return cruise home, there is time to chat with others and experience the river at twilight, blending into night.

Don’t forget your camera.

This is a small group experience that is unique each sailing. We promise a great evening for all to enjoy the Tree Swallow show and this special time on the pristine Connecticut River!

RiverQuest: $45 adults only. No Children under 12.

You must purchase tickets using our “BOOK NOW” button. Thank you.

2024 Dates:

Wednesday – Sunday on both vessels:  RiverQuest and Onrust

Depart 6:30pm  from August 24 – September 1

Depart 6:00pm September 4 – September 15

Depart 5:30pm September 18 – September 25

Check the Calendar for Days and Times.

• These cruises DO SELL OUT. It is required to book online to secure your spot.
• You are able to bring your own picnic basket or snacks and your favorite “beverage” to enjoy on this special cruise.  “Lap” food works best!
• Please,  always confirm the cruise is going by checking the ctrivermuseum.com or ctriverquest.com home page for any changes! or call 860-767-8269
• RiverQuest leaves the dock on time! Please check in at the dock at least fifteen minutes before departure.
• NO ON-LINE BOOKING FOR OVER TEN (10) PERSONS.  Please email us if you have more than ten.
• The Captain reserves the right to change the cruise itinerary, duration or cancel a cruise anytime he feels that there may be a weather, viewing or safety issue. We want to remind everyone that this is a nature cruise and the weather can change in minutes. There are times when a cruise may need to be canceled very last minute. We will of course try to give as much notice as possible. Thank your for your understanding.

A great way to plan your trip!

Man killed in head-on crash in Haddam

By cailyn blonstein • published april 16, 2024 • updated on april 16, 2024 at 2:18 pm.

A 28-year-old Hamden man is dead and two other people are injured after a head-on crash in Haddam on Tuesday morning.

Emergency crews responded to the crash at the intersection of Saybrook Road, also known as Route 154, and River Road around 6:30 a.m.

State police said a Ford F-150 going north on Saybrook Road and a Honda Civic going south collided.

The driver and passenger in the pickup suffered minor injuries, state police said, and they were transported to Hartford Hospital.

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The driver of the Honda, 28-year-old Elijah Santiago, of Hamden, died at the scene, state police said.

The crash is under investigation. Witnesses are asked to call Trooper Muckle at 860-399-2100.

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