What Is the Best Connecticut River Cruise?

Woman in a hat on a Connecticut River cruiseFlowing for 410 miles, the majestic Connecticut River is the longest river in New England. It runs through New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut and provides 70% of all freshwater entering the Long Island Sound. The river is home to a wide variety of endangered fish species and has bald eagles and peregrine falcons nesting along its shores.

 

The National Geographic has called the mouth of the Connecticut River one of the last great wild places in the world. And it makes sense, it’s one of the few river mouths in the world without a major metropolitan area or port at its mouth.

 

The variety of wetlands, woods, and small towns make it one of the most unique attractions in Connecticut.

 

To experience the unparalleled beauty of this watershed, we suggest taking a Connecticut River cruise. Perfect for a birthday, anniversary, or a romantic date night out, an adventure on the water is a wonderful addition your New England vacation. Here are some of the best places to sail.

Learn more about Connecticut attractions when you download our free Connecticut Travel guide. It’s full of information on the best things to see and do, like taking a Connecticut River cruise.

What You’ll See on a Connecticut River Cruise

Many of the river cruises sail out of Hartford, making them a great for outdoor activities in Hartford, CT.

 

Lady Katharine Cruises

For an unforgettable journey down the Connecticut River, book an excursion with Lady Katharine Cruises. This cruise line offers fall foliage tours, dinner cruises, murder mystery events, and more that depart from Riverfront Plaza and Charter Oak Landing in Hartford. You can even reserve a private charter for an event. Simply hop aboard the 113-foot cruise ship and enjoy seeing historic landmarks, wildlife, and picturesque sites along the river banks. The ship has two climate-controlled dining decks and a tented observation deck for fall and winter trips. Call (866) 867-4837 to make your reservations.

 

Hartford Belle Cruises

Like Lady Katharine, Hartford Belle Cruises also departs from Hartford, CT, and cruises the river from May to October. The 49-passenger vessel features a spacious open deck, enclosed salon, and full bar service with beer, wine, cocktails, and snacks. Guests are welcome to take a public cruise down the river or book a private charter. There are also special cruises offered on select dates. Visit the Hartford Belle Cruises website to purchase your tickets.

 

RiverQuest

Boasting a quiet, clean, and eco-friendly cruise ship, RiverQuest offers “green” tours of the CT river. Unlike other cruise companies, this 64-foot vessel features engines that don’t give off fumes and are designed to have minimal impact on the environment. The ship’s one-floor platform makes RiverQuest ideal for private charters, intimate group cruises, and special events. They even offer a number of public cruises including sunset rides and daytime tours. Check out their website for a full list of upcoming excursions.

 

Winter Wildlife Eagle Cruise

For one of the best winter activities in CT, head to the Connecticut River to witness wildlife surviving the cold months of the year along the river. One of the coolest attractions is bald eagles!

 

Keep Exploring the many things to do in Connecticut!

Ready to sail away along the Connecticut River?

 

Or would you rather keep planning your trip?

 

Either way, check-out some of our other fantastic guides to Connecticut:

Or, learn more about our corner of the state, Greenwich, Connecticut.

 

We hope you rediscover your love of Connecticut!

Photo Credit: RossHelen | Getty Images