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Becky Thatcher Riverboat Becky Thatcher Riverboat Becky Thatcher Riverboat Becky Thatcher Riverboat

Cruise aboard the Becky Thatcher riverboat and delight in the breathtaking scenery of the Connecticut River and historic landmarks including Goodspeed Opera House and Gillette Castle. Or, enjoy the golden hours of sunset aboard a Friday Night Sunset Cruise. Becky Thatcher is also available for private charters. Passengers board the Becky Thatcher riverboat from the Essex Steam Train at Deep River Landing.

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1 Railroad Avenue Essex , CT 06426 United States

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450 Columbus Blvd., Suite 5 Hartford, CT 06103

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Aug/Sep – Tree Swallow Sunset Cruise

For the past 20 years RiverQuest has brought individuals and groups on intimate cruises aboard RiverQuest to a special spot on the Connecticut River where 100’s of thousands of Tree Swallows gather. After spending the day miles away, the swallows return each night to sleep in the reeds. They gather at sunset and perform aerial ballets forming an amazing display of art, coordination and cooperation!

Now RiverQuest is operated from the Connecticut River Museum and Cathy, Captains, and Crew are excited to continue the tradition. RiverQuest can maneuver  to allow perfect views from their open decks. RiverQuest’s flexible seating ensures everyone gets optimal “up close and personal” viewing.

Enjoy the entire evening! We will spend 2 hours on the water aboard RiverQuest.

The cruise is primarily about the Tree Swallows, however, it is also about the journey….there is so much to see while cruising along the river. Many birds are migrating through the area at this time; for the fall season, we have seen a record number of Bald Eagles and Great Egrets in past years. On board Naturalist(s), will educate you on the Tree Swallow phenomenon and all the other wildlife we see. On the return cruise home, there is time to chat with others and experience the river at twilight, blending into night.

Don’t forget your camera.

This is a small group experience that is unique each sailing. We promise a great evening for all to enjoy the Tree Swallow show and this special time on the pristine Connecticut River!

RiverQuest: $45 adults only. No Children under 12.

You must purchase tickets using our “BOOK NOW” button. Thank you.

2024 Dates:

Wednesday – Sunday on both vessels:  RiverQuest and Onrust

Depart 6:30pm  from August 24 – September 1

Depart 6:00pm September 4 – September 15

Depart 5:30pm September 18 – September 25

Check the Calendar for Days and Times.

• These cruises DO SELL OUT. It is required to book online to secure your spot.
• You are able to bring your own picnic basket or snacks and your favorite “beverage” to enjoy on this special cruise.  “Lap” food works best!
• Please,  always confirm the cruise is going by checking the ctrivermuseum.com or ctriverquest.com home page for any changes! or call 860-767-8269
• RiverQuest leaves the dock on time! Please check in at the dock at least fifteen minutes before departure.
• NO ON-LINE BOOKING FOR OVER TEN (10) PERSONS.  Please email us if you have more than ten.
• The Captain reserves the right to change the cruise itinerary, duration or cancel a cruise anytime he feels that there may be a weather, viewing or safety issue. We want to remind everyone that this is a nature cruise and the weather can change in minutes. There are times when a cruise may need to be canceled very last minute. We will of course try to give as much notice as possible. Thank your for your understanding.

A great way to plan your trip!

Give the Gift of Seabird

What better gift to give than a seabird cruises gift card.

Whether it be a holiday, graduation, wedding, or birthday you cannot go wrong with the gift of an experience. Your friends and family will be in good hands with Captain Chip aboard the Seabird – and will have an experience that will be a lasting memory for a lifetime.

So give the gift of sailing with us in Long Island Sound and up the Connecticut River aboard a beautiful classic picnic boat.  

Welcome to Seabird Cruises, offering relaxing, scenic cruises for up to six guests on Seabird—a classic New England Dyer 29 picnic boat skippered by U.S. Coast Guard licensed Captain Chip Adams. Seabird sails from the marina at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina on 3-hour cruises along the beautiful Connecticut Shoreline and up the Connecticut River. Or, if you have more time, Captain Chip can take you on a Custom Cruise for up to 10 hours.

Seabird Cruises offers you “a great time on our beautiful waters” of Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River. Relax with family, friends, or business associates. Take in the seals and birds, explore nearby islands, go for a swim, see where you live from the water. Celebrate a birthday or anniversary, or ask someone to marry you!

BOOK A PICNIC CRUISE

Picnic on the water.

Schedule a three-hour Picnic Cruise on Seabird from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on an itinerary that takes you east or west in Long Island Sound or up the Connecticut River.

Bring your picnic, or lunch can be catered by the Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, or you can arrange for other food options.

BOOK A SUNSET CRUISE

End the day on the water.

Schedule a 3-hour Sunset Cruise on Seabird from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., May through July; 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in August; 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the fall – cruise along the Shoreline or up the Connecticut River.

Bring your favorite food and beverages, or select from a variety of local options.

BOOK A CUSTOM CRUISE

Cruise built to your preferences.

When you have more time available, schedule a Custom Cruise on Seabird. There are a variety of destinations and options you can map out with Captain Chip, including one-way drop-offs.

Custom Cruises can range from 5 to 10 hours in length.

SEASONED SKIPPER, CLASSIC CRAFT

Comfort and performance.

USCG licensed Captain Chip Adams has skippered sail and powerboats for more than 40 years, and has extensive offshore sailboat racing and delivery experience.

The Seabird is a classic New England Dyer 29 Trunk Cabin picnic boat, a seagoing vessel designed for comfort and performance.

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Stay in touch and be the first to know about last minute cruise opportunities, special events, and new ways that people enjoy the Connecticut Shoreline and River Valley.

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Fairfield Southwest

Hartford Central

Litchfield Northwest

Mystic Eastern

New Haven South Central

Sightseeing cruises in connecticut explore state's maritime history.

Sightseeing boat tours and cruises from Mystic, along the Connecticut River, and other points along the Connecticut shore offer a fresh, sailor's eye view of the rich maritime, seafaring, and ship building history of southeastern Connecticut. Join a scheduled cruise or charter a boat for a private party or a fishing excursion. Schedule cruises feature views of lighthouses , nature viewing and bird watching -- including migrating eagles and ospreys on the Connecticut River -- and relaxation at sunset. Individual charters are great for company outings, birthdays, retirements, and bachelor parties.

Argia Mystic Cruises

75 Steamboat Wharf Mystic, CT, 06355 Phone: 860-536-0416

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

One Railroad Avenue Essex, CT, 06426 Phone: 860-767-0103 Toll-Free: 800-377-3987

You’ll feel you are traveling back in time when you board Mississippi-style riverboat

Blackhawk Sport Fishing

Sailing from the Niantic Bay Marina Niantic, CT, 06357 Phone: 860-448-3662 Toll-Free: 800-382-2824

Head out to sea to observe the perfect sunset, frolicking seals, eagles in flight

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Connecticut River Cruise & Charter, LLC

    Operating from:

Saint Clement's Castle & Marina

1931 portland cobalt road, portland, ct 06480, captain wheeler(860)559-6745.

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Explore Connecticut River's serenity, beauty,and excitement! Board Blantyre at Saint Clement's beutiful Riverside Marina. Reservation are required weekends, holidays,and weekdays. Make your cruise reservations now! Life is good on the River!

For folks who like traveling in style!

...Celebrate Birthdays, Anniversaries, Engagements, ...Picnic at Dart, Haddam, Gildersleeve and other river islands, ...Give your Special Friend a boat ride, ...Enjoy a sunset cruise, bring your favorite drink & food. ...Spend an afternoon at Haddam Island, ...Excite the family with a cruising vacation, ...Lunch at East Haddam's Gelston House Restaurant, ...Enjoy cruising to the Goodspeed Opera House, ...You imagine it we do it!

Cruise to your destination on your schedule!

...Private cruises to Old Saybrook, Chester, Hamburg Cove, Essex... ...Long Island Sound destinations are an easy reach:  e.g. Jamestown, Montauk, Watch Hill, Thames River, Mystic, Block Island...

Special Event Cruises

... Sunset Cruises depart 2.5 hours before Sunset, bring food & Beverage.

... Fire Works: Middletown July TBD, Hartford, Haddam Island.

... Tree Swallow Cruises From Essex September through early October.

... Fall Foliage Cruises available mid to late October.

Make your Special Event Cruise reservation now!

Email:[email protected]

(860) 559-6745

CTRiverCruise.com

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Cruises Aboard Onrust

The Connecticut River Museum hosts the Onrust , a re-creation of the vessel Adriaen Block built in 1614.  Onrust is available for public cruises and private charters.  

Built over several years in upstate New York using traditional plans and means, the Onrust is a wholly unique ship that serves to educate and entertain visitors curious about the age of exploration, the fur trade, and our early colonial history.

River cruises are offered Thursdays through Sundays. While at dock, the Onrust is available for exploration. (based on staff availability). To book a private charter aboard Onrust , please call Cathy Malin, Director of Visitor Experience, 860.767.8269, extension 118, for more information.

Learn more about the history of the Onrust and the construction of this amazing replica at the official website of the Onrust Project.

For an “on the water” experience, take a look here:   Onrust River Cruise Photo Tour . Photo Credit: UCONN Agency Course Students

Cruise Rates

2:00 p.m.: $30

6:00 p. m.* : $40

Sunset Tree Swallow Sunset

6:00 p. m.* : $45

Reservations strongly recommended, Book online HERE to make a reservation.

Our Sunset Sails become Sunset Tree Swallow Sails for the month of September.

*Please note that cruise times change through late Summer as the days get shorter. Please check to confirm you have the correct departure time before arriving.

To book a private charter aboard Onrust , please contact the Visitor Experience department, 860.767.8269, extension 118, or email:  [email protected]

For information on educational programs aboard Onrust , please contact the education department at 860.767.8269 ext.121 or email: [email protected]

PURCHASE TICKETS

Onrust History

The Onrust (Dutch for “unrest” or “restless” ) was a Dutch Ship built by captain and explorer Adriaen Block and the crew of his ship, the Tyger, which had been destroyed by fire during the winter of 1613 in New York Bay.

Onrust’s construction took place near Manhattan during the winter of 1614. She was about 45 feet long, 12 feet in beam and had a load capacity of 16 tons. The ship was America’s first yacht.

Onrust was launched into upper New York Bay in April of 1614. She explored the New York coast and rivers, and sailed through the treacherous passage called ‘Hellegat’ (Dutch for ‘Hell’s hole’, later anglicized to Hell Gate) in the East River. She then went on to explore the harbors of Long Island and Connecticut, discovering

the Housatonic and Thames Rivers. She sailed up the Connecticut River past the future site of Hartford. The Onrust continued on to Narragansett and Buzzards Bays, and from there to Cape Cod.

The last historical account of the Onrust describes her 1616 expedition to explore the Delaware River under the command of Captain Cornelius Hendrickson.

Block was immortalized as namesake of the small island in Long Island Sound that is perennially popular with modern visitors to these waters. His voyage was used as the basis for the Dutch claim to the territory of New Netherland, an area that included parts of what are now the states of New York, Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

67 Main Street Essex, CT 06426 860.767.8269 [email protected] DIRECTIONS

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Sunset Cruise

September 9, 2016 @ 8:30 pm - september 30, 2016 @ 8:30 pm.

Friday Night Swallow Cruise

  In September, take the Becky Thatcher to a spectacular natural phenomenon as hundreds of thousands of Tree Swallows converge on the lower Connecticut River and swarm as a beautifully choreographed flock over Goose Island before settling in on a giant communal roost each evening at sunset. The birds come from as far as 30 miles away and in such number that they show up on weather radar.

September 9 – 30

• Board the train at Essex Station for a 5:00 pm departure
• 3-hour cruise down the Connecticut River aboard the Becky Thatcher riverboat
• Train brings you back to Essex Station between 8:30 and 9:00 pm (depending upon time of Swallow event)
• Food and beverage service are available at the fully stocked bar (Due to our liquor permit, no BYOB permitted)
• Due to the time of day and duration of the cruise, Swallow Cruise is not recommended for children under 10
• Tickets are $35, advanced tickets recommended – purchase online
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Korean Lotus Lantern Workshop at Essex Library

Struggling Readers Information Series: Reader Builders Workshop

Psychedelic ’60’s at The Gris

An event every week that begins at 12:00 am on Friday, repeating until March 1, 2026

Essex Board of Trade, Inc., P.O. Box 322 Essex, CT 06426 or email [email protected]

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• 433 N. Palmetto Ave. Sanford, Florida 32771

St. Johns Rivership Co.

See the Real Florida!

Book your reservations today!

Weekly Schedule

Three and four-hour sternwheeler cruises

River Visit Luncheon Cruise : Wednesday, 11am ‐ 2 pm

River Escape Luncheon Cruise : Thursday, 11am ‐ 3pm

“Rockin’ on the River” : Friday: 6:30pm ‐ 9:30 pm

River Visit Luncheon Cruise : Saturday, 11am ‐ 2pm

Saturday Dinner on the River : Saturday, 5:00pm ‐ 8:00pm **NEW TIME IN 2024!!!**

River Visit Luncheon Cruise : Sunday, 12pm ‐ 3pm

Upcoming Special Events

More than a cruise.

Family-owned and operated, the St. Johns Rivership Co. is the latest in a long line of sternwheelers that have been serving and sailing the St. Johns River for centuries.

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WELCOME TO RIVER CITY CRUISES

Hop on board mv neptune for a magnificent tour of brisbane by water., explore queensland’s capital on a boutique timber vessel with a relaxing and informative tour of the city of brisbane from the river is one of the best things to do in brisbane. during the cruise you will be entertained by an informative commentary that provides insight into the history of brisbane and the river today. perfect for both locals and visitors.

Our Daily Cruises

PLEASE NOTE DEPARTURE LOCATION

We depart from the Cultural Centre Public Pontoon, South Brisbane Qld 4101. This is located on the river outside the Cultural Centre, about 100m upstream from the Victoria bridge and 300m upstream from the Brisbane Wheel. Please Note: Unfortunately M V Neptune is not equipped for wheelchair access and refreshments are available for purchase on board by card only.

Morning Tea Cruise

Sunset river cruise.

• Friday & Saturday

2hr Sightseeing Cruise From Powerhouse Pontoon

Afternoon cruise, midday cruise, newstead to southbank cruise, south bank combo pass, cruise to lunch package, city lights dinner cruise.

• Thurs Fortnightly

Coming Soon Trivia Night Cruise

Riverfire 2024.

• Saturday 31st August

New Years 2024 Cruise

Groups & Charters

Seniors groups, youth or school groups or just want to arrange a private function then we can provide a great outcome.

Senior Groups

School Groups

Special events

Catering available

to arrange your event

Brisbane’s Best Tour

Hop on board the MV Neptune for a magnificent tour of Brisbane by water. This remains Brisbane’s best value tour. During the cruise you will be entertained by an informative commentary that provides insight into the history of Brisbane and the River today. Enjoy an ice cold beer or wine from bar as you marvel at the historical landmarks and the homes of the rich and famous. Perfect for both locals and visitors!

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Sign up to stay up to date on news & offers from river city cruises. be the first to find out about special events & new cruise times.

Departure/Return Point:

Cultural centre public pontoon at southbank on the river in front of the cultural centre., [email protected].

If you’ve cruised with us in the past we’d love to hear your feedback!

River city cruises is a family-owned queensland business proudly operating since 2002., copyright © 2023 – river city cruises, policy's and terms & conditions of bookings, our cancellation policy, privacy policy, responsible service of alcohol.

As the licensee, the Operator is bound by the QLD Liquor Act and must abide by the guidelines for the responsible service of alcohol. Please note that it is an offence for individuals to either carry liquor onto the vessel on arrival or from the vessel on disembarkation

Functions Terms and Conditions

DEPOSITS & PAYMENT – Confirmation of a booking is not until a deposit has been paid. A deposit of $500 is payable upon booking, with the balance to be paid 3 weeks prior to travel. If a booking is made less than 21 days from cruise date, full payment is required on confirmation.

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River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

Choose your dates

Who's going.

• Excursion River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
• Date and time:
• Who's going:

See photo of the meeting point