Join a private 75-minute boat tour on the Thames River in Groton, Connecticut, and uncover the dramatic military history of the area, including Revolutionary War sites and the renowned Submarine Capital of the World.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
75 minutes
Fitness Level
Accessible to most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
Groton played a crucial role during the Revolutionary War and remains central to U.S. submarine development.
Conservation
The Thames River Heritage Park supports efforts to preserve the river’s ecosystems and historic sites through sustainable tourism.
Thames River Heritage Park
Join a private 75-minute boat tour on the Thames River in Groton, Connecticut, and uncover the dramatic military history of the area, including Revolutionary War sites and the renowned Submarine Capital of the World.
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.
Location
New London, CT
On the Thames River estuary
Tour Length
75 minutes
Most tours run 75 minutes
Guides & Partners
Local historians & experts
University, tribal, and society-led tours
Tours Offered
11 distinct trips
Historical and natural themes
Support local heritage and experience expert-led 75-minute boat tours in New London — tickets help sustain area preservation.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Arriving at least 15 minutes before departure ensures a smooth boarding process and gives you time to settle in comfortably.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Non-slip shoes are recommended as boat decks can be wet and slippery during the tour.
Bring a Light Jacket
Even in summer, temperatures on the water can be cooler and breezy—layers help keep you comfortable.
Use Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen and consider a hat or sunglasses, especially on bright summer days.
Light Jacket
Keeps you comfortable during cool breezes on the water.
spring
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from strong sun exposure during the tour.
summer
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated enhances comfort throughout the boat ride.
Non-Slip Footwear
Prevents slipping on wet boat decks for safety.