THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
Book with Thames River Heritage Park
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Thames River Heritage Park · Groton, Connecticut
Experience a unique journey through American history with 'In Our Nation's Defense. Military Stories on the Thames,' a captivating 75-minute boat tour in Groton, Connecticut. As you cruise along the iconic Thames River, you'll explore Revolutionary War battle sites while uncovering the gripping tale of Benedict Arnold’s betrayal. The tour also highlights Groton’s status as the Submarine Capital of the World, with stunning views of the Coast Guard Academy and Submarine Base New London. This private, immersive experience is perfect for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering rich stories brought to life on the water. Beyond the tour, your participation supports local heritage conservation efforts, ensuring these landmarks and narratives endure for future generations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor staying near New London, this experience offers an engaging blend of maritime history and scenic adventure.
easy.
75 minutes.
Accessible to most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages.
Advance booking is recommended to guarantee your spot, especially during peak seasons.
Tours may be postponed or canceled due to severe weather conditions for safety reasons.
Yes, there is ample parking available near the Thames River Heritage Park boarding area.
Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed, but bottled water is permitted.
Please contact Thames River Heritage Park directly to confirm accessibility options.
Groton played a crucial role during the Revolutionary War and remains central to U.S. submarine development.
The Thames River Heritage Park supports efforts to preserve the river’s ecosystems and historic sites through sustainable tourism.
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.
Book with Thames River Heritage Park