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Full Moon Cruise on the Thames

2026 Celestial Cruise Series

Experience the Thames River aboard one of the Park’s evening cruises! Multiple offered each month.

Full “Buck” Moon Cruise – Tuesday, 7/28 and Wednesday, 7/29

Join us for a midsummer evening cruise beneath the Full Buck Moon, traditionally associated with strength, growth, and the height of summer. As the moon rises above the river, passengers can relax aboard ship while enjoying cool night air, scenic shoreline views, and the magic of the season.

Solar Eclipse Cruise – Wednesday, 8/12

Witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring celestial events from the water during our special Solar Eclipse Cruise. As daylight transforms and the sky darkens above the Thames River, guests will enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience combining science, wonder, and unforgettable views from a unique vantage point aboard ship.

Full “Sturgeon” Moon Cruise – Thursday, 8/27 & Friday, 8/28

Step aboard for an enchanting cruise under the Full Sturgeon Moon, named by Indigenous communities and early fishermen for the giant sturgeon once plentiful in North American waters. This late-summer voyage combines rich maritime atmosphere, glowing moonlight, and spectacular nighttime views along the historic Thames River.

Full “Corn or Harvest” Moon Cruise – Friday, 9/25 and Saturday, 9/26

Experience the beauty of autumn beneath the glowing Corn or Harvest Moon, whose brilliant light once guided farmers gathering crops late into the evening. This scenic river cruise offers crisp fall air, shimmering reflections across the water, and a memorable celebration of New England’s harvest season.

Full “Hunter’s” Moon Cruise – Monday, 10/26

Set sail beneath the radiant Hunter’s Moon and enjoy a crisp autumn evening filled with dramatic skies and glowing moonlit waters. Traditionally marking the transition into the colder months, this unforgettable cruise pairs seasonal atmosphere with spectacular nighttime views of the historic waterfront.

Questions? Give us a call: (860) 407-5655

“Celebrate New London” Fireworks Cruise on the Thames

Get right under the action! The park’s Fireworks Cruise will bring you for a tour down the Thames River and — weather and boat traffic permitting — out to the Ledge Lighthouse and back to secure a front row spot for Connecticut’s largest fireworks display.

Departure Location: Fort Trumbull State Park, New London

Feel free to bring snacks and drinks aboard, but glass is prohibited. Also please know that there is no bathroom on the boat. Seats are limited and tend to sell out quickly!

All ticket holders should expect to arrive to Fort Trumbull State Park early with enough time to park and walk 5+ minutes down to the pier where the boat will depart from.

Questions? Give us a call: (860) 407-5655

Historic Boat Tours & Cruises Return for the Summer!

Thames River Heritage Park is elated to announce the return of Historic Boat Tours, Evening Cruises and the Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruise on the river starting on Saturday, June 13. Each weekend, there will be over six excursions to choose from between Friday and Sunday. All ages are welcome to discover the Park along the Thames River!

The Park operates all tours and experiences across four departure locations: Fort Trumbull State Park and City Pier in New London and Nautilus Dock and Thames River Landing in Groton. This gives folks on both sides of the river the opportunity to get out and explore! Full Moon, Fireworks and Drone Cruises for “Celebrate New London” and other major local events will be rolled out as the season progresses.

This year, in honor of the Park’s 10-year anniversary, youth ages 4-17 ride for $5 when an adult ticket is purchased by a parent or guardian. This only applies to Historic Boat Tours and the Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruise. All Boat Tour tickets must be purchased online, and infants ages 0-3 always ride free!

The Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruise will see the addition of a fourth stop at the Nautilus Dock on Sundays only! Saturday’s traditional schedule will have three departure locations between New London and Groton. Locally known as the Water Taxi, the one-hour loop connects the park’s heritage sites along the Thames River.

This service will operate on both Saturday and Sunday between 11am-5pm and walk-ons are welcome to pay as they board the boats. Hop on at one location and off at another to experience heritage sites, state parks, shopping or restaurants. Guests are also welcome to sit back and relax for the one-hour loop.

Well-behaved dogs and coolers are even allowed! We also offer individual Season Passes for the entire summer. This will become your go-to activity with your visiting guests and family!

CT Trails Day in the Park

CT Trails Day is celebrated annually on the first weekend of June throughout the entire state! Hosted by Connecticut Forest & Park Association, this weekend encourages folks to get outside and discover the beauty of their own backyards.

Take a look below at the multiple FREE opportunities hosted throughout Thames River Heritage Park this weekend!

New London Black Heritage Trail
Saturday, June 6 | 10AM

Hosted by: New London Black Heritage Trail, New London Landmarks, New London Cultural District

Guided walking tour of the New London Black Heritage Trail, visiting sites of historic interest which will include 18th Century stories of enslavement and the Governors of the Negroes, the 19th Century stories of the abolition and education movements, as well as The Amistad, and 20th Century stories of the Great Migration, 1919 Red Summer, The Green Book, the Civil Rights movement, and Urban Renewal.

Follow the link below for more information and to register in advance!

Walk In The Footsteps Of Our Ancestors! Morning & Afternoon Tour of Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
Saturday, June 6 | 11AM & 1:30PM

Hosted by: Friends of Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park

Walk in the footsteps of the local militia who bravely defended Fort Griswold during the Revolutionary War. Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park is a partially flat, partially hilly, somewhat rocky trail. Wear sturdy shoes. Leashed dogs allowed.

Follow the link below for more information and to register in advance!

A Walk Through Time: Historic Groton Heights
Saturday, June 6 | 12PM

Hosted by: Thames River Heritage Park

Join other history enthusiasts for this walk through the hilly neighborhood along the banks of the Thames River to see the homes of patriots, whaling captains, town founders and civic leaders. Over 250 years of history will unfold through local lore, architecture, and the draw of the Thames River. This walking tour coordinates with a tour of Fort Griswold Battlefield hosted by the Friends of Fort Griswold. Participants may want to consider attending the Battlefield tour in conjunction with the neighborhood tour. 

Follow the link below for more information and to register in advance!

Historic Starr Burying Ground Walking Tour
Sunday, June 7 | 2-3:30pm

Hosted by: Thames River Heritage Park, CT Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, Avery-Copp House Museum, Groton-Mystic CT America 250 Committee

Join us for a tour of the historic Starr Burying Ground and meet some of the Groton patriots whose lives were forever changed by the American Revolution.

Nine of the 85 men killed by the British at the Battle of Groton Heights in 1781 are buried here, as are some of their widows and children. You’ll also hear the stories of citizens who rallied to the cause as word of British offenses spread in the 1770s, and who lived through the devastating aftermath of Benedict Arnold’s 1781 raid.

Follow the link below for more information and to register in advance!

Next in the Park…June Events & Programs!

Newsletter: June 1-15, 2026

E-newsletters will now be shared on a bi-monthly basis throughout the spring and summer months. There are so many amazing opportunities for exploration at all heritage sites for all to enjoy!

Thames River Heritage Park is comprised of 25 heritage sites throughout New London Groton and Waterford, Connecticut. Check out the latest newsletter and find the perfect event, program or activity for yourself, friends and family!

#DiscovertheThames #VisitCT #ExploreNewLondon

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