Sunset River Cruise with Connecticut River Museum
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no strenuous activity required.
Overview
Unwind on a two-hour sunset cruise along the lower Connecticut River with the Connecticut River Museum. Bring a picnic and enjoy light narration in a casual, scenic setting.
RiverQuest Sunset Cruise
$45 Adults 12+ / $40.50 Members
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Unwind on a serene two-hour cruise aboard RiverQuest, exploring the breathtaking lower Connecticut River, hailed as “One of the Last Great Places.” Enjoy light narration, a casual atmosphere, and the freedom to stroll the boat. Bring your picnic dinner and favorite beverage for a memorable evening on the water.
At the end of your day a peaceful cruise will let you relax! Whether you are visiting, new to the area, or a local who just wants to remember what a beautiful area we live in, this is a great opportunity to join us aboard RiverQuest and experience the river as we cruise along these unspoiled waters.
Enjoy the spectacular beauty as we aimlessly cruise the lower Connecticut River, an area that the Nature Conservancy considers to be “One of the Last Great Places”. On this cruise, about two hours in length, we do only light narration so that you can just relax and enjoy.
We may have a small table for you and there will be a chair available so that you can sit comfortably during the cruise. The cruise is very casual, you can walk about the boat if you’d like.
Bring an individual picnic dinner with you and your “favorite” beverage (alcohol is allowed). We do not have any food on board, so make your favorite picnic or stop by a local eatery and pick something up.
No one under 12 years old please.
DIRECTIONS:
Please note that GPS can be problematic, please use the following directions to be sure you arrive at the correct address.
From CT-9 South Take exit 3 (soon to be exit 4) for CT-154 toward CT-153/Essex/Westbrook Turn left onto CT-154 S/Middlesex Ave Turn left onto West Ave Turn right to stay on West Ave Turn right onto Main St Destination will be on the left
From CT-9 North Take exit 3 (soon to be exit 4) for CT-154 toward CT-153/Essex/Centerbrook Turn left onto CT-154 N/Middlesex Ave/Saybrook Rd Turn right onto West Ave Turn right to stay on West Ave Turn right onto Main St Destination will be on the left
Adventure Tips
Bring your own picnic
No food is served onboard, so pack a dinner and drinks to enjoy while cruising.
Dress for changing temperatures
Evenings on the river can be cool, so layers are recommended for comfort.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding.
No children under 12
This cruise is intended for guests 12 and older to maintain a relaxed atmosphere.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagle
- Great blue heron
History
The lower Connecticut River was a vital transportation and trade corridor for Native American peoples and early European settlers.
Conservation
Ongoing efforts by local organizations, including the Connecticut River Museum, help protect water quality and habitats along this critical river corridor.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Hartford
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered clothing
To stay comfortable as temperatures shift during the evening.
all specific
Bug spray
Helpful for managing insects near the river’s wetlands during warmer months.
summer specific
Picnic dinner and beverages
Bring your own meal and drinks since there is no food service onboard.
all specific
Camera or smartphone
For capturing river views, wildlife, and sunset colors.
all specific