Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park
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RiverQuest: Exploring the Connecticut River
Eco-tours on the Connecticut River: Explore wildlife, history, and scenic beauty aboard the RiverQuest, departing from the Connecticut River Museum in Essex.
Embark on an eco-tour aboard the RiverQuest, a 64-foot vessel departing from the Connecticut River Museum in Essex, CT. Discover the beauty and wildlife of the lower Connecticut River, a designated 'Last Great Place,' while cruising through its scenic waters.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to RiverQuest
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
9 am-9 pm
Tuesday
9 am-9 pm
Wednesday
9 am-9 pm
Thursday
9 am-9 pm
Friday
9 am-9 pm
Saturday
9 am-9 pm
Sunday
9 am-9 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From Main Street in Essex Village, walk south towards the Connecticut River. The Connecticut River Museum and Steamboat Dock, where RiverQuest departs, are located at the foot of Main Street. The walk is short and offers scenic views of the village and waterfront.
Driving
From CT Route 9, take Exit 3 for CT-154 toward Essex/Westbrook. Follow CT-154 South/Middlesex Ave. Turn left onto West Ave, then right to stay on West Ave, and finally turn right onto Main Street. The Connecticut River Museum will be on the left. Parking is available near the Connecticut River Museum, but it can be limited, especially on weekends. Check town by-laws for parking restrictions. There is a winter parking ban in Essex from December 1 to April 1. Parking is free for the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat at 55 Bokum Road and 15 Plains Road, Essex, CT.
Ride-Sharing
Use a ride-sharing service such as Uber or a local taxi to get to the Connecticut River Museum at 67 Main Street, Essex. The driver can drop you off near the entrance to the museum. Uber is available in Essex. Average price with UberX* to Old Saybrook Amtrak Train Station is $20.
Local tips
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Arrive 15 minutes early to allow time to check in for your cruise and explore the exhibits at the Connecticut River Museum.
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Bring your own food and beverages to enjoy on board during the cruise.
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Consider the season when dressing; bring a jacket or sweater in the spring and fall, and dress warmly for winter cruises.
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Type “Connecticut River Museum” or “Steamboat Dock” into your GPS to ensure accurate directions.
Discover more about RiverQuest
RiverQuest offers a unique opportunity to experience the Connecticut River's ecology, history, and wildlife. Departing from the Connecticut River Museum at Steamboat Dock in Essex, CT, the 64-foot eco-tour boat provides access to the lower Connecticut River, an area recognized by The Nature Conservancy as “One of the Last Great Places in the Northern Hemisphere”.
During the cruise, passengers can observe various wildlife, including osprey and eagles, and learn about the river's rich history and ecology. The RiverQuest has a fully enclosed cabin to protect passengers from the elements. The boat is also handicap accessible, accommodating small, non-electric wheelchairs and walkers.
RiverQuest was initially owned and operated by Connecticut River Expeditions (CRE). From 2002 to 2021, Captain Mark and Mindy Yuknat provided public access to the lower Connecticut River, educating passengers on the ecology and beauty of the area. Today, the boat is berthed at Steamboat Dock at the Connecticut River Museum and continues to operate from Essex, CT. All bookings include admission to the museum.
A brief summary to RiverQuest
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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