This Weekend: Historic Boat Tours on the Thames River

(NEW LONDON, CT)- The Thames River Heritage Park will host four historic boat tours this weekend Friday, July 23 through Sunday, July 25. These 75- minute themed excursions depart from City Pier in New London. Tickets must be purchased in advance through the Park's website here.

Guests can expect to see the USS Nautilus (SSN-571), New London Harbor, and Ledge Lighthouse as a local guide shares the stories of historical figures and events that took place along the shores of the Thames River.

ABOUT THE BOAT TOURS

Submarines, Battlefields, and Betrayers. Military Stories on the Thames. Friday, July 23 at 6:15 PM AND Sunday July 25, 4:30 PM

For centuries our harbor has guarded the Thames River and entry to Long Island Sound, with Navy and Coast Guard installations, the ship building industries that support them, as well as two forts that have seen battles, defeats and the birthplace of the Coast Guard and Merchant Marine. From the vantage point of the river you‘ll understand the strategic value of this storied waterway and region and hear a few of the 1,000 stories in the Park.

Water, Wampum, & Medicine Wheels. Mohegan Life on the Thames.Saturday July 24 at 4:30 PM AND 6:15 PM

The first inhabitants along the western side of the Massapequatuck (Thames) River — the Mohegan tribe — settled here from the time of Sachem Uncas’ birth toward the end of the 16th century. This area — roughly between present day Norwich and New London — was and continues to be the vital heart of Mohegan country. Led by Tribal members, this fascinating tour will include stories demonstrating how crucial the Thames River was for food, wildlife, transportation, and trade as well as their relationship with the colonists.

To learn more about the Thames River Heritage Park, visit their website at thamesriverheritagepark.org or call (860) 912-3742.