Witness the breathtaking murmuration of thousands of Tree Swallows during fall at Goose Island. Join Seabird Cruises for an unforgettable 1.5-hour adventure into one of nature's most stunning displays.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical effort required; suitable for all ages
Wildlife
History
The Connecticut River has served as a vital trade route and community hub for centuries, with early settlements dating back to the 17th century.
Conservation
Seabird Cruises emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal impact on wildlife and responsible tourism during migration seasons.
Seabird Cruises
Witness the breathtaking murmuration of thousands of Tree Swallows during fall at Goose Island. Join Seabird Cruises for an unforgettable 1.5-hour adventure into one of nature's most stunning displays.
Seabird Cruises operates out of Old Saybrook, Connecticut, offering private and customizable boat excursions on the Connecticut coastline and river. Captain Chip leads each voyage with local navigation experience and an emphasis on safety and personalized itineraries. Trips include a three-hour Picnic Cruise, a three-hour Sunset Cruise, a five-hour Half Day Cruise, an eight-hour Full Day Cruise, and a 1.5-hour Fall Tree Swallow Cruise to view the murmurations at Goose Island on the Connecticut River. Each trip is designed for small groups, families, or friends who want a relaxed, flexible maritime experience.
Seabird Cruises provides the boat, captain, safety equipment, and basic essentials for every outing. Guests are invited to bring their own food and beverages and can work with Captain Chip to tailor routes, stops, and activities such as swimming, dining ashore, or shopping in Fenwick, Old Saybrook, or Essex. The Fall Tree Swallow Cruise focuses on seasonal wildlife viewing and follows recommended timing to see the swallows’ evening gatherings. Reservations are managed by Seabird Cruises from its Old Saybrook base, with departure points commonly in Fenwick, Old Saybrook, or Essex. Safety briefings occur before departure, and the captain adjusts plans for weather and river conditions. Seabird Cruises emphasizes straightforward booking, local knowledge, and a clear description of what each trip includes, helping guests plan an enjoyable and dependable day on the water. Booking details, departure locations, seasonal schedules, and contact information are listed on Seabird Cruises' Adventure Collective profile and supplied during reservation confirmation for customer planning purposes.
Departure Ports
Fenwick • Old Saybrook • Essex
Multiple local departure points
Private Groups
Small groups
Ideal for families and friends
Experienced Captain
Captain Chip
Local navigation and safety focus
Trip Durations
1.5–8 hours
Short to full-day options
Reserve a Picnic, Sunset, Half Day, Full Day, or Fall Tree Swallow Cruise from Old Saybrook — availability varies by season.
Best viewing times
Arrive early in the afternoon to catch the murmuration peak during the golden hour.
Bring your camera
Use a telephoto lens to capture detailed shots of the swallows in flight.
Dress warmly
Autumn air can be crisp, so layer up for comfort during the cruise.
Arrive early
Secure your spot and settle in before the murmuration begins.
Binoculars
Enhance bird visibility during the cruise.
fall
Warm clothing
Stay comfortable as temperatures drop in autumn.
fall
Camera
Capture the stunning murmuration in flight.
Hat and sunglasses
Protect against sun and wind during the cruise.