RiverQuest — Attraction in Essex

We very much enjoyed the Winter Wildlife Eagle Cruise with Riverquest! Admittedly, my cell phone couldn't get closeups, but I was able to capture a few of the birds and some of the natural beauty of the Connecticut River. We bought our tickets ahead online which is convenient and gave us peace of mind in case they sold out. Even with Covid reductions on the boat (said the website), there were plenty of customers along for the ride. Masks were still required inside the museum and on the inside of the boat, but we were able to take them off once outside on the deck of the boat. We brought snacks like the site suggested, but there were so many bird sightings we ended up staying outside the whole time. The guides were awesome! They are knowledgeable about the river and the local buildings and wildlife, and spent time talking to the guests. They were pointing out birds and nests left and right, and we got to see an eagle swoop down and grab a fish out of the water. Binoculars were available in the boat for anyone that needed them, and tickets included access to the museum, which has a lot of good local history. I'm already eyeing the Tree Swallow your in August and am looking...

Never been on a birding cruise before. Did not even realize they were open today! My wife and I were in the area looking for eagles and ospreys, and happened to see them at the dock. I went up to them to ask for info, and am VERY glad I did as they had room, and we decided to go. We had a GREAT TIME! They are VERY knowledgeable, not just about the birds of the area, but the history of the river, the river valley, the area, the rock structure of the valley, etc. If you have a question, they have an answer! I was quite impressed, as some of the passengers questions seemed to come from way out in left field, but they were ready and had answers for everything. There was constant chatter, CONSTANT looking out for, and spotting birds of all kinds, in all directions. And all the bad jokes anyone could handle. (Which I LOVE!) All in all, we had a great time, just make sure you bring a good hat, and a little heavier jacket then you think you need, the breeze on the water is biting. In ebay speak, A+++! ;) We will be...

This exciting trip lasts about 2 hours and runs from the CT museum at 67 Main St in Essex CT. We saw 20 eagles at the 2p run, and I was really encouraged that perhaps the sound and the lower part of the CT River are less polluted than in the past... The birds are exquisite, and of course many others beside eagles to see. $80.00 fee for 2 seems expensive until you give it another thought. You get museum access at the River museum where the boat leaves from. You get 3 naturalists and a boat Capt who narrate the tour. You get a lovely 2+ hour ride.. Warmed inside the cabin, or room on two outside decks. We had done a summer ride in the past and will do this again and...