How many people can the boat hold?

The KEEPER accommodates up to six passengers comfortably for each two-hour cruise.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their favorite snacks and beverages aboard.

Are pets allowed on the boat?

Please inquire directly with Connecticut River Expeditions as pet policies may vary.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Cruises may be rescheduled or canceled due to unsafe weather conditions, with full communication and options provided.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Limited accessibility is available; please contact the operator to discuss accommodations.

Can we choose the direction of the cruise?

Yes, guests decide the route north under East Haddam Swing Bridge or south towards Essex once aboard.

Sunset River Cruise with Connecticut River Expeditions | Private | Boat Tour

Connecticut’s Lower Connecticut River stretches for miles through a landscape rich with history and nature, shaping a perfect backdrop for an intimate evening on the water. Connecticut River Expeditions invites adventurers and leisure seekers alike aboard KEEPER, a private vessel cruising the river’s gentle currents for two hours. Limited to just six passengers, this experience prioritizes tranquility and flexibility. Guests bring their own snacks and drinks, choosing a route either north beneath the iconic East Haddam Swing Bridge—a classic swinging railroad bridge dating back over a century—or south towards the quaint river town of Essex, known for its preserved 18th-century architecture. The open waters and riverbanks offer a rare perspective on local flora and fauna, from bald eagles circling above to deer drinking along wooded shores.

What makes this trip stand out in the outdoor recreation scene of southern New England is its tailored, personal nature combined with the timeless charm of the Connecticut River itself. Unlike crowded tours, this cruise delivers an uncrowded, peaceful setting where passengers set the tone. Whether as a romantic escape, a small group gathering, or a contemplative solo respite, the cruise softens the day’s edges with warm light and rhythmic water sounds.

Connecticut River Expeditions has carved a niche in this region by providing unique, small-group voyages that embrace the natural and historical significance of the river corridor. The opportunity to navigate beneath historic bridges, spot local wildlife, and drift past colonial-era towns gives visitors a potent blend of nature and culture rarely found on private boat tours elsewhere. This outing merges simple pleasures with subtle education, giving travelers fresh insight into one of New England’s most enduring waterways.

About Connecticut River Expeditions

Connecticut River Expeditions operates private and public small-boat cruises on the Lower Connecticut River, offering seasonal and charter experiences aboard the vessel KEEPER. The company provides a set of curated two-hour cruises that showcase wildlife, historic riverfront landmarks, and scenic landscapes, including specialized outings for fall foliage, daytime private excursions, and sunset birdwatching featuring Tree Swallows and raptors.

Trips are designed for intimate groups and emphasize safety, local knowledge, and a relaxed pace suited to photographers, families, and nature lovers. Each cruise allows guests to bring a picnic to enjoy on board while observing birds, Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and other river wildlife from the water. Routes can be chosen to travel north under the East Haddam Swing Bridge or south toward Essex, depending on the booked cruise.

Connecticut River Expeditions maintains a focus on responsible river stewardship and guest comfort. The small-group format and private cruise options give customized experiences and flexible departure choices. The vessel KEEPER is used across listed offerings, providing a consistent platform for sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and seasonal foliage trips.

Bookings are presented as private two-hour tours with clear descriptions for each available trip: Fall Foliage Cruise aboard KEEPER, Daytime Private Cruise aboard KEEPER, Sunset Tree Swallow Cruise aboard KEEPER, and Sunset Cruise aboard KEEPER. Third-party listings and local tourism resources commonly reference these departures for scenic river cruises in the Connecticut River region.

Reservation details, schedules, and pricing are available through Connecticut River Expeditions listings and partner booking pages. Guests should confirm specifics before booking.