Mystic Seaport Museum offers a wide range of boating opportunities for visitors looking to explore the Mystic River and experience maritime history firsthand. Guests can:
Take a captained river cruise aboard the historic steamboat Sabino, a National Historic Landmark, or set sail on the Crosby catboat Breck Marshall. These cruises provide narrated tours of the Mystic waterfront, offering insights into the area’s maritime heritage.
Pilot your own boat from the Mystic Seaport Museum Boathouse, choosing from rowboats, sailboats (sailing experience required), or pedal boats. This hands-on experience allows visitors to explore the river at their own pace and is included with museum admission.
Charter museum vessels for private excursions, ideal for families or groups seeking a personalized outing on the water.
Enjoy themed cruises, such as the Sabino’s 90-minute music cruises on Thursday evenings during summer, which feature live music and a cash bar as the boat travels downriver toward Noank.
Explore historic vessels: In addition to on-water experiences, visitors can board and tour several historic ships docked at the museum, including the 1841 whaleship Charles W. Morgan, the 1866 Emma C. Berry, and the 1921 schooner L.A. Dunton.
All boating activities are weather dependent, and the museum provides life jackets for safety. Dogs are welcome on small craft outings, making Mystic Seaport a family-friendly destination for both learning and recreation on the water.