How does the hop-on, hop-off system work?

You can disembark at any of the designated piers along the route and catch a later boat to continue your cruise at your own pace.

Are there restrooms on board?

Yes, the boats are equipped with restrooms for passenger convenience.

Is the cruise family-friendly?

Absolutely! The experience is suited for all ages and offers educational entertainment for children and adults alike.

Can I bring food and drinks on the boat?

Outside food is not permitted, but there are refreshments available on board during the cruise.

What happens if the weather is bad?

In case of severe weather or unsafe conditions, trips may be delayed, rescheduled, or canceled for passenger safety.

Are there any live performances during the cruise?

Yes, Craig Edwards performs traditional whaling songs and sea chanteys to enhance the maritime atmosphere on board.

Hop-On, Hop-Off Harbor Cruise at City Pier, New London

Experience the charm of New London's waterfront with the Hop-On, Hop-Off Harbor Cruise offered by Thames River Heritage Park. This unique adventure lets you explore over 20 historic heritage sites along the scenic Thames River while enjoying live performances by Craig Edwards, who brings the spirit of maritime history alive with authentic whaling songs and sea chanteys. Whether you want to relax on the deck and take in the fresh sea breeze or hop off at various piers to explore local attractions, this flexible cruise is perfect for all ages and interests. With plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, history buffs will appreciate insights into New London’s maritime past, while nature lovers can enjoy stunning river vistas and watch for local wildlife. The cruise is designed to be leisurely yet engaging, making it an ideal day trip or part of a longer exploration of Connecticut’s coastline. Whether visiting with family, friends, or as a solo traveler, this hop-on, hop-off format allows you to customize your adventure at your own pace. Don’t forget your camera, as the combination of water views, historic docks, and natural beauty makes for endless memorable shots.

About Thames River Heritage Park

Thames River Heritage Park is a New London, Connecticut organization that preserves and interprets the history, culture, and natural resources of the Thames River estuary. The organization offers a curated series of guided 75-minute boat tours and talks that connect passengers with regional stories, including maritime history, Indigenous heritage, African American experiences, Gilded Age estates, Revolutionary War events, and local folklore. Tours feature collaborations with recognized local experts and institutions: UConn faculty, members of the Mohegan Tribe, Connecticut Sea Grant scientists, historians from the New London County Historical Society, and local authors. Many programs explicitly support area heritage sites and nonprofit partners through ticket revenue.

Departing from locations such as Fort Trumbull State Park, the tours navigate landmarks like Pine Island, Bushy Point, Bluff Point, and riverbanks that witnessed significant historical events. The schedule includes specialized programs — for example, guided conversations about emancipation and abolition; profiles of notable women of the Thames; natural-history excursions; a haunted-harbor ghost tour; and focused narratives on Benedict Arnold’s 1781 burning of New London. Most offerings emphasize education, community engagement, and place-based interpretation tailored to adults, families, and history enthusiasts.

Thames River Heritage Park emphasizes transparent partnerships, local scholarship, and stewardship of the river corridor. Tickets and public programs make regional history accessible while reinvesting in heritage organizations. Visitors can expect knowledgeable narration, close river access to shoreline sites, and an opportunity to support ongoing preservation and interpretation of New London’s maritime landscape. Seasonal schedules vary; check the foundation calendar for details and updates.