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special topics tour

Defending the Harbor – 1776

Date: Sunday, September 6, 2026
Departure: 11:45am, Thames River Landing, Groton, CT

In 1776, sensing the importance of New London, the Connecticut General Assembly sent a committee to New London to determine how to protect this vital port. Come see the harbor as they did and learn about the forts of the harbor and the parts they played in the 1781 Raid on New London. Local historian, Matthew Reardon, will lead this tour!

 

Discover Connecticut’s Hidden Underwater Meadows

Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026, 1:15PM
Departure: Fort Trumbull State Park, New London, CT

Join us for a guided boat tour out of the Thames River as we cruise east along Connecticut’s coastline to explore one of Long Island Sound’s most important—and overlooked—ecosystems: eelgrass. Learn how these underwater meadows support fisheries, protect shorelines, improve water quality, and store carbon, all while we visit beautiful coastal coves and boating hotspots. From the rise and fall of eelgrass to the real-world choices that threaten or protect it, this engaging on-the-water experience brings science, history, and stewardship together. Perfect for curious adults who love the coast and want to help keep it healthy—above and below the surface.
Guest Guide: Jamie Vaudrey, Ph.D. is a coastal scientist and science communicator who serves as the Research Coordinator for the Connecticut National Estuarine Research Reserve and an Associate Research Professor at the University of Connecticut.

Whaling, Sailing and Building Along Groton’s Banks of the Thames

Date: Sunday, August 30, 2026
Departure: 11:45AM, Thames River Landing, Groton, CT

Join us as we explore Groton’s History as it has unfolded in Groton along the banks of the Thames. Listen to the stories of the Founders, patriots, whalers, sailors, shipbuilders, entrepreneurs and civic leaders who have left their mark on our history.

Haunted Harbor

Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
Departure: 1:15PM, Thames River Landing, Groton, CT

The rich and varied history that surrounds the Thames River has unsurprisingly given rise to ghostly tales and spectral sightings. Join us as we recount some of the most enduring tales from the stories of Mother Bailey to those who may never have left Fort Griswold. This tour is given by one of the authors of Ghosts of Groton Bank, who knows the stories best!
Guest Guide: Leslie Evans, Avery-Copp House Museum Director.

From Eastern Point to Bluff Point

Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
Departure: 11:45AM,Thames River Landing, Groton, CT

Join Groton Town Historian Jim Streeter as he regales us with the history that has unfolded along Groton’s southern shores. Meet the people and communities that have built their homes, industries and vacation getaways from Eastern Point to Bluff Point and all the points and islands in between.

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