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Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
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Essex Steam Train & Riverboat adventure is perfect for large groups – a beautiful train ride to the docks of the Becky Thatcher riverboat to a relaxing cruise on the Connecticut River and a return train ride back to Essex Station (2.5 hours total time).
2023 Schedule
May 13 – June 18: Saturday & Sundays AND Monday May 29
June 22 – August 28: Thursday – Mondays (Closed Tuesday and Wednesday)
September 1 – September 25: Friday – Mondays (Closed Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday)
September 28 – October 29: Thursday – Mondays (Closed Tuesday and Wednesday)
11:00 am, 12:30 pm and 2:00 pm = (1) Hour Train Excursion OR (2.5) Hour Train & Riverboat Excursion
Caboose Weekends : May 13 & 14, June 3 & 4, July 1 & 2, August 5 & 6, September 2 & 3, October 7 & 8
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Connecticut River Museum
Scotch Plains Tavern
- 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426, USA
- [email protected]
- 860-767-0103
- http://essexsteamtrain.com/
1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426, USA (Get directions)
Opening Hours
- Monday - --> 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
- Tuesday Closed
- Wednesday Closed
- Thursday Closed
- Friday - --> 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
- Saturday - --> 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
- Sunday - --> 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
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RiverQuest RiverQuest RiverQuest RiverQuest
Travel aboard the RiverQuest , a 64' eco-tour boat. Guests experience the River's ecology and wildlife; including osprey, eagles, and more. Enjoy each season's beauty as we cruise Spring through Fall.
Please call (860) 767-8269 Ext. 118 for charter information.
Dates of Operation
Other amenities.
- ADA Compliant
- Groups welcome
- Guided Group Tours
- Meeting/Event Facilities
- Nature Center/Interpretive
- Special Rentals
Departs from Steamboat Dock at the Connecticut River Museum 67 Main Street Essex , CT 06426 United States
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450 Columbus Blvd., Suite 5 Hartford, CT 06103
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Arts and Galleries | Attractions
67 Main St,Essex,06426
860.767.8269
http://ctrivermuseum.org
Are you an Essex business Interested in becoming a member of the Essex Board of Trade?
CONTACT US TODAY!
Essex Board of Trade, Inc., P.O. Box 322 Essex, CT 06426 or email [email protected]
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Sunset Swallow Cruises Saturday September 19 & 26
The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat offers Saturday Night Sunset Cruises aboard the Becky Thatcher — a lovely evening ride down the Connecticut River from the boat’s dock in Deep River. Enjoy exquisite 360-degree views of some of Connecticut’s prettiest countryside. Snack bag included and beverages are available for purchase at the Becky Thatcher ’s Snack Bar. Take the Becky Thatcher Riverboat to a spectacular natural phenomenon as hundreds of thousands of Tree and Barn Swallows converge on the lower Connecticut River and swarm as a beautifully choreographed flock over Goose Island.
NOTE LOCATION:
152 River Street Deep River, CT 06417
- 3+ hour cruise on the Connecticut River aboard the Becky Thatcher Riverboat (boat will return to dock at conclusion of Tree Swallow Event)
- Snack Bag (chips, trail mix, cookie, bottled water) included and bar service is available at the fully stocked bar (Due to our liquor permit, no BYOB allowed)
- Due to time and length of excursion, this product is not recommended for children under the age of 10
- The Tree Swallow event is anticipated to occur; however we can not guarantee it due to conditions such as but not limited to weather.
- The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat is following protocol based on State of Connecticut and CDC guidelines to keep our customers and employees safe.
- You are required to wear a mask while on the property and unable to maintain 6 foot social distancing. You may lower your mask only when seated on your excursion. Our crew will be wearing masks at all times.
- Please wash your hands often and make frequent use of sanitization stations.
- The Becky Thatcher riverboat will be regularly sanitized for customer and employee safety.
- Always maintain a safe social distance from other guests.
- If you are feeling ill, please be respectful and stay home.
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!
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Enjoy the history, beauty and wildlife of the lower CT River on board RiverQuest, a vessel that offers daytime, sunset, birding, lighthouse and private charter cruises. All cruises include admission to the Connecticut River Museum, where you can explore the exhibit Getting There: Wayfinding on the Water in the Pre-Modern Age.
Enjoy a 2 1/2-hour train and riverboat or 1 hour train only journey through the Connecticut River Valley. See wildlife, historic sites, and scenic views from the vintage coaches and the Becky Thatcher riverboat.
Enjoy a 2.5-hour journey on a steam train and a riverboat along the Connecticut River Valley. Explore the historic towns of Deep River and Chester, and see the scenic coves and preserves from the Becky Thatcher riverboat.
Enjoy a relaxing and scenic cruise on the lower Connecticut River with RiverQuest, a comfortable and safe boat. See Essex Harbor, wildlife, Gillette Castle and more, and get museum admission with your booking.
Experience a scenic train ride and a river cruise in Connecticut with Essex Steam Train & Riverboat. Read reviews from travelers who enjoyed the historic narration, the views and the safety measures during Covid-19.
Enjoy a two and a half hour narrated journey through the Connecticut River Valley on a steam train and a riverboat. Experience the historic sites, the sunset cruises, the dinner trains and the special events at Essex Steam Train & Riverboat.
149 reviews. #1 of 2 Tours & Activities in Essex. River Rafting & Tubing. Open now. 12:00 PM - 8:00 AM. Write a review. See all photos. About. View the scenic lower Connecticut River aboard the friendly, intimate, eco-tour vessel RiverQuest.
Onrust is a re-creation of the vessel Adriaen Block built in 1614. RiverQuest is a tour boat that experiences the River's ecology, rich history, and wildlife. HOME; ... Essex, CT 06426 860.767.8269 [email protected] DIRECTIONS. Connect. Join Us. Become a member and enjoy all of the benefits membership brings. JOIN TODAY.
Experience a scenic train ride and a river cruise in Connecticut with Essex Steam Train & Riverboat. Read reviews from travelers who enjoyed the nostalgic, family-friendly and festive tours, and see photos of the historic locomotives and boats.
Experience a scenic train ride and a river cruise in Connecticut with Essex Steam Train & Riverboat. Read reviews from travellers who enjoyed the historic narration, the views and the safety measures during Covid-19.
Best Boat Tours in Essex, CT - Connecticut River Museum, East End Charters, Mystic Boat Adventures, Essex Tiki Tours, Thames River Water Taxi, American Beauty Cruises & Charters, The Islander -Thimble Island Tours, Layla Sailing, Bell 8 Charters, Poet's Lounge Sailing Charters, Mystic CT
Enjoy a 2.5-hour train and riverboat adventure in Essex, Connecticut. See the schedule, prices, and contact information for this fun and scenic excursion.
Enjoy scenic cruises on the Connecticut River with Becky Thatcher riverboat, departing from Essex Steam Train at Deep River Landing. Choose from daytime or sunset cruises, or book a private charter for special occasions.
Travel aboard the RiverQuest, a 64' eco-tour boat. Guests experience the River's ecology and wildlife; including osprey, eagles, and more. Enjoy each season's beauty as we cruise Spring through Fall. Please call (860) 767-8269 Ext. 118 for charter information. ... Essex, CT 06426 United States. Map & Directions. Contact (860) 767-8269. email ...
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the lower Connecticut River Valley on a historic steam or diesel train and a riverboat. Learn about the mechanical and industrial heritage of Connecticut and plan your visit with the Valley Railroad Company.
Mark drives while Mindy does most of the talking and guest interaction.…" more. 2. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat. "This was a super fun experience, and way worth the price. We did the steam train and river boat " more. 3. Connecticut River Museum. "summer, and early fall. Eagle boat tours in the winter.
Top 10 Best Boat Tours Ct River in Essex, CT - August 2024 - Yelp - Connecticut River Museum, Mystic Boat Adventures, Riverquest, Pedal Cruise Connecticut, Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, Slip Away River Tours, Poet's Lounge Sailing Charters, Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Ferry, GrandView Camping, American Cruise Lines
Learn about the history and environment of New England's Great River at the Connecticut River Museum. Explore exhibits, boat tours, train show, and more at this scenic waterfront location.
1. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat. Fun trip on the train and steamboat- but actually the highlight was all the fantastic staff! 2. RiverQuest. Whether you are a long time resident or visitor, the narration of the river's history, beautiful shore birds, and stu... Set sail on your destination's top-rated boat tours and cruises. Whether it's an ...
Enjoy a scenic evening ride on the Connecticut River with the Becky Thatcher, a lovely riverboat docked in Deep River. Watch the spectacular Tree Swallow event, a natural phenomenon of thousands of swallows over Goose Island, and enjoy snacks and beverages on board.
The Boat. R/V RiverQuest. RiverQuest is an extremely safe, quiet, intimate 64′ vessel, certified to carry up to 65 passengers. She has been inspected, approved, stability tested and certified by The United States Coast Guard. RiverQuest cruises on the lower Connecticut River. Her one level floorplan makes RiverQuest perfect for Private ...
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) Sep 10, 2024 - Take one or both tours in combination for a delightful sightseeing excursion through some of the most scenic areas of Connecticut: scenic train ride in restored railroad cars pulled by a coal-fired...
Join RiverQuest for a special cruise to see 100's of thousands of Tree Swallows perform aerial ballets on the Connecticut River. The cruise is 2 hours long and departs from the Connecticut River Museum. Check the calendar for dates and times.