Step aboard a captivating 75-minute boat tour along the Thames River in New London and immerse yourself in the opulence of the Gilded Age. Discover historic estates, hear fascinating stories, and support local heritage preservation—all from the water’s perspective.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
75 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
The Gilded Age in Connecticut was marked by industrialists building grand summer homes, many of which remain visible from the water today.
Conservation
The Thames River Heritage Park actively supports preservation efforts that maintain the historic estates and bolster local environmental health.
Thames River Heritage Park
Step aboard a captivating 75-minute boat tour along the Thames River in New London and immerse yourself in the opulence of the Gilded Age. Discover historic estates, hear fascinating stories, and support local heritage preservation—all from the water’s perspective.
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.
Dress in layers
Temperatures can vary on the water, so layering ensures comfort throughout the tour.
Arrive early
Getting to the dock early allows you to settle in and appreciate the scenic surroundings before departure.
Bring binoculars
Optional but helpful for getting a closer look at estate details and waterfront wildlife.
Support heritage efforts
Your ticket helps fund preservation projects that maintain the historic estates and stories.
Warm clothing
Layered clothing helps keep you comfortable during variable weather conditions on the water.
fall|winter|spring
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during sunny days on the boat, especially in summer months.
summer|null
Waterproof hat or cap
Provides shade and helps keep you dry if weather turns rainy or windy.
all seasons
Binoculars
Enhances your view of estate details and wildlife along the shoreline.
spring|fall|winter