Tag: #longislandsound

Spring on the Sound: Norwalk Seaport Association’s 2026 Cruises Promise Unforgettable Cruises for Birders, Sunset Chasers, and Families

When spring arrives in Connecticut, it brings with it the start of something truly special: the Norwalk Seaport Association’s 2026 cruise season! Whether you’re searching for colorful seabirds, the perfect sunset, or a magical family outing to a historic lighthouse, this lineup delivers the ultimate maritime experience.

Bird-Watching Cruises: Witness Nature’s Most Magical Migration

Calling all nature lovers! Every Sunday in May (May 10, 17, 24, and 31), early risers can embark on guided bird-watching cruises departing at 7:30 a.m. from the Seaport’s dock at 90 Water Street in Norwalk.

As you glide along Long Island Sound—a crucial stop on the Atlantic Flyway—an expert guide will help you spot migrating and nesting birds, including birds that make Sheffield Island their home. Expect to see everything from herring gulls to great black-backed gulls up close! Don’t forget: Bring your camera and binoculars—these moments are meant to be shared.

Sunset Cruises: Pure Magic on the Water

If you prefer your adventures with a touch of romance or relaxation, the Seaport Association’s Sunset Cruises are for you. Set sail from May 20–24 and May 27–31 at 6:30 p.m. for a two-hour journey past Norwalk’s islands and lighthouses—including the famed Peck’s, Green Ledge, and Sheffield Island Light. Bring your favorite snacks and beverages (plastic cups, please!) and soak in the golden hour as the captain’s mate shares tales of the harbor’s rich history. Cruises continue daily and on weekends through August, promising plenty of chances to toast the sunset with friends and family.

Sheffield Island Lighthouse Excursions: Explore History, Nature, and Relaxation

For a truly immersive outing, join a Sheffield Island Lighthouse Excursion on May 23, 24, 30, or 31 (with more dates through August!). These three-hour tours offer a narrated cruise on a spacious ferry across Norwalk Harbor, views of three lighthouses, and a full hour exploring Sheffield Island. Enjoy a guided lighthouse tour, then treat yourself to a picnic at our seaside pavilion and a stroll on our beach—a perfect family adventure blending history, nature, and fun.

The Norwalk Seaport Association has been Connecticut’s gateway to the Sound since 1978, founded by locals passionate about preserving maritime history and natural beauty. Their cruises offer more than just a ride—they’re an invitation to connect with Connecticut’s coastal heritage, wildlife, and community spirit. Secure your tickets today at seaport.org and make this spring unforgettable.



About the Seaport Association
Founded in 1978, the Norwalk Seaport Association is dedicated to enriching lives through cultural, historical, and environmental experiences. By preserving sites like the Sheffield Island Lighthouse, the Association educates all ages about the importance of safeguarding our maritime legacy and natural treasures.

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Get on the Water this May With the Norwalk Seaport Association

Seabirds have made Long Island Sound off the coast of Norwalk their home for millennia. Bird lovers and nature enthusiasts have spotted waterfowl, shorebirds, and seabirds along with migrating birds of all types in this rich natural environment. And, one of the most interesting places to view our avian friends is from the water.

Osprey Fight Michael Brinkley

May is one of the best times of the year to spot birds, so this year, the Norwalk Seaport Association is offering its first birding cruises of the season on Sunday, May 19th. This excursion is departing from the Seaport’s new Dock at 70 Water Street in Norwalk at 7:30 a.m. The vessel returns to the dock around 10 a.m. Tickets are $40 for adults and $30 for children and are available online at seaport.org. It is advised that passengers arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Birding excursions are also scheduled for June 2, 16, and 30th.

This cruise is guided by a bird enthusiast who will be on board to point out migrating as well as nesting birds encountered along the way. One of the most exciting aspects of this harbor cruise is that you never know what species of birds or how many you will encounter.

Egret Up Close With Fish Michael Brinkley

A unique highlight of this cruise is the chance to spot birds at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge on Sheffield Island. Here you will see a variety of habitats that support nesting and wading birds. This spot is known for its small population of herring and great black-backed gulls that nest along Sheffield Island’s rocky shoreline. The importance of the Norwalk Islands to wildlife, especially migratory birds is enormous, and the special Bird Cruises hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association give nature enthusiasts the chance to spot these magnificent seabirds up close with the added benefit of a knowledgeable guide.

Also happening in May, Sunset Cruises begin on May 22, and run from Wednesday – Sunday departing at 6:30 p.m. and returning at 8:30 p.m. throughout the season. This is the perfect way to unwind on the Sound. Pack a snack, BYOB, and sit back and watch the sunset over the water, it is like a mini vacation.

If you are looking for a memorable way to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend, the Seaport Association is offering its first cruises of the season to Sheffield Island on Saturday, May 25, and Sunday, May 26 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. This three-hour excursion includes a narrated tour of the Norwalk Harbor and three historic lighthouses ending with a one-hour stop on Sheffield Island Lighthouse. Take a tour of the lighthouse, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach or in our pavilion, and walk the trails of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge looking for birds.

Tickets are available at http://www.seaport.org

About the Seaport Association
The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve Norwalk’s maritime heritage. The Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and educational venue that strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for the environment and how the preservation of historic buildings contributes to our quality of life. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment, and our maritime heritage.

JanetLeave a comment

Why Taking a Sunset Cruise Is A Good Idea with the Norwalk Seaport Association

While most of us admire the sunset from the shoreline, taking in the sunset on the water is an extraordinary experience that can be done close to home, right in Norwalk, Connecticut. It’s nice to know that you can do something unique that is close by and easy to get to without planning a big fancy getaway. Imagine breathing in the fresh ocean air and feeling the tingle of the salt on your face as you slowly cruise past the islands situated right off the coast of Norwalk in Long Island Sound. There is a feeling of serenity watching seabirds glide as you cruise past Norwalk’s necklace of islands.

Taking a two-hour sunset cruise with the Seaport Association through Norwalk Harbor is always a good idea because there is no better or more affordable way to experience Norwalk Harbor than on board the Seaport’s vessel. The two-hour sunset cruise is offered by the Seaport Association Wednesdays – Sunday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. through September 17th. Passengers are encouraged to bring snacks, BYOB, plastic cups, openers, and snacks, to add to the fun. There is comfortable seating in a covered and uncovered deck area on the vessel that holds only 49 passengers, so it is never too crowded. For sunset cruise tickets go to http://www.seaport.org

The friendly crew welcomes passengers aboard and the Captain tells stories of merchants and sailors that have traversed this ancient waterway for centuries. The journey continues as the vessel slowly wends its way through Norwalk Harbor, passing many islands. Some of them have idyllic names like Tavern Island, once owned by the famous Broadway playwright Billy Rose, Shea Island, named in honor of native Pfc. Daniel Shea, Medal of Honor recipient for his bravery in the Vietnam War, and Chimmon Island, the largest island in the Norwalk Chain of Islands. Highlights of the sunset tour include passing Sheffield Island Lighthouse, built in 1868, and two rare sparkplug Lighthouses, Peck Ledge built in 1906, and Greens Ledge built in 1902. As the vessel returns to the dock, passengers watch as the city of Norwalk begins to light up, and just in time for dinner, with many restaurants steps away from the Seaport Dock.

Best of all, a sunset cruise is therapeutic because it reminds us that taking a break from the daily grind is a good thing to do. It gives passengers the opportunity to soak up the last rays of the sun while reflecting on the accomplishments of the day, and everything we have to be grateful for.

Sunset Cruise Schedule & Parking
The boat leaves from the dock on 4 North Water Street at 6:30 p.m., and returns at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday – Sunday evenings, June through September. The Seaport Dock is adjacent to the Stroffolino Bridge at the corner of Washington and North Water Streets. Parking is available in the adjacent lot or at the Maritime Center Parking Garage. For tickets visit http://www.seaport.org or call 203-838-9444. Sunset cruises are $35 per person. The boat sails promptly as scheduled so it is best to arrive at the dock 30 minutes before departure to facilitate the boarding process.

JanetLeave a comment