If you’re looking for a way to see more of Connecticut's diverse scenery and wildlife species, taking a Connecticut cruise is the perfect activity. A cruise along the Long Island Sound or a Connecticut river cruise can be the perfect day trip for a group of friends or the entire family. Many of the ships that set sail from Connecticut have historical roots that visitors can learn about while aboard the ship. Many people do not know about the availability of New England cruise deals during the summer and are pleasantly surprised at the many options available to them. Whether it is a simple day cruise or a more lengthy experience that you're after, New England cruises provide an interesting way to experience the strong maritime tradition of Connecticut and get outside during the warm summers in Connecticut.

Connecticut cruises along the Long Island Sound and the state’s scenic rivers are typically offered during the late spring and early summer months, although there are exceptions to this rule. If you’re an adventurous traveler who desires Connecticut cruises that are anything but ordinary, a Connecticut river cruise is for you. For wildlife enthusiasts who would love the chance to observe Bald Eagles in their natural habitats, Connecticut River Expeditions in Essex offers river cruises on the Lower Connecticut River in February and early March. Guests will enjoy the scenery and solitude of the river while observing several different species of birds such as migrating Bald Eagles, Red Tailed Hawks, and Wood Ducks. Occasionally, guests aboard this Connecticut river cruise will observe wildlife besides birds. Harbor Seals are a very common sighting on the cruise. Although it can get chilly on the river in February and March, the boat features a fully enclosed heated cabin and complimentary coffee and tea.

It is recommended that you inquire about cruises early in order to take advantage of any New England Cruise deals that might be going on. These deals often offer discounted tickets for New England cruises during the off season of late August and early September. Taking a cruise during the fall can be a smart idea since the weather is still warm enough to enjoy a cruise and the tourism season has died down.

Connecticut Map

Tourists who plan to visit the Mystic area of Connecticut should hop aboard the Steamboat Sabino at Mystic Seaport. This historic steamboat was built in 1908 and makes the list of our nation’s top historical landmarks because it is the last wooden, coal-fired steamboat that is still in operation. Connecticut cruises aboard the Steamboat Sabino will only last for 30 minutes, but the adjacent museum at the seaport will allow history buffs to soak in all of the facts they can.