Birds, Sunsets, and Lighthouses—Your Perfect Cruise Awaits This Spring and Summer
Birds, Sunsets, and Lighthouses—Your Perfect Cruise Awaits This Spring and Summer
May signals the start of an unforgettable season as the Norwalk Seaport Association launches its highly anticipated 2025 cruise offerings. From serene bird-watching adventures and dazzling sunset cruises to immersive trips to Sheffield Island Lighthouse, there’s a perfect cruise for everyone. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a sunset chaser, or captivated by Connecticut’s maritime history, these experiences promise memories to last a lifetime.
Bird-Watching Cruises: A Spring Spectacle on Long Island Sound
This spring, birding enthusiasts are in for a treat with guided bird-watching cruises, starting Sunday, May 4th, and followed by outings on May 11th and May 25th. Each excursion departs promptly at 7:30 a.m. from the Seaport’s Dock at 70 Water Street in Norwalk, with a return around 10 a.m. Tickets are only $43.04 for adults and $32.54 for children and can be conveniently booked online
As these eco-styled cruises traverse Long Island Sound—part of the Atlantic Flyway, a crucial migratory route—birders may spot seabirds and shorebirds up close. A knowledgeable guide will accompany each cruise, pointing out both migrating and nesting species, creating an enriching experience for bird lovers of all levels. One particularly unique highlight is the opportunity to spot birds at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge on Sheffield Island, home to nesting herring and great black-backed gulls. With its diverse habitats and stunning avian populations, this is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts.
Additional birding cruises are scheduled for Sunday, June 8th, and Sunday, June 22nd, offering even more chances to witness spring's vibrant migration season. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars—this adventure will surely be one for the books!
Sunset Cruises: A Picture-Perfect End to Your Day
For those seeking a more relaxed yet equally captivating adventure, the Norwalk Seaport Association’s Sunset Cruises are not to be missed. Running from May 21st to May 25th and May 28th through May 31st at 6:30 p.m., these two-hour cruises glide through scenic Norwalk Harbor and into Long Island Sound. Passengers will enjoy breathtaking views of Norwalk’s islands and landmarks, including three historic lighthouses—Peck’s, Green Ledge, and the iconic Sheffield Island Lighthouse. As the captain’s mate shares stories of the harbor’s rich history, passengers can sip on wine and other beverages and enjoy snacks they bring aboard. Just remember to bring plastic cups and openers to make your evening celebration seamless! Sunset cruises will be offered daily and weekends through August. For your tickets click here.
Sheffield Island Lighthouse Excursions: Fun for the Whole Family
Starting Saturday, May 24th and 31st, and Sunday, May 25th, the Norwalk Seaport Association also offers three-hour excursions to Sheffield Island Lighthouse, with daily and weekend trips continuing through August. These tours, available at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., include a narrated journey through Norwalk Harbor, a view of three lighthouses, and a one-hour stop on Sheffield Island. Guests are invited to tour the lighthouse, enjoy a picnic lunch at the pavilion or beach, and explore the trails of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. This family-friendly adventure is the perfect way to combine history, nature, and relaxation. For tickets click here.
Whether you’re an avid birder, a history buff, or simply looking for a picturesque way to spend your day, the Norwalk Seaport Association’s 2025 cruise season offers an array of experiences that blend natural beauty, maritime heritage, and the joys of the season. Secure your tickets today at seaport.org and embark on a journey you’ll never forget!
Norwalk Seaport Association Blog
