We invite you to experience Mystic, Connecticut from a perspective that is both timeless and personal. Our cruises take place aboard a beautifully restored 1947 wooden motorboat, offering an intimate setting limited to six guests per journey. Guided by Captain Erick, a licensed U.S. Coast Guard Master, each cruise is designed to highlight the natural beauty of the Mystic River while delivering attentive, personalized service. As we navigate the waterways, we share stories of local landmarks and river history, creating an engaging and relaxed atmosphere that allows our guests to fully immerse themselves in the charm of the area.Mystic River Cruises was founded on the belief that a boat ride should be more than transportationit should be a memorable experience. For more than ten years, we have welcomed guests from around the world who seek an authentic and refined way to explore Mystic. Our flexible private cruise options accommodate a variety of occasions, including sunset outings, family excursions, and customized private tours. When you step aboard with us, you are not simply reserving a cruise; you are joining a tradition rooted in craftsmanship, storytelling, and a genuine passion for the river.
Highlights and features
- Private antique picnic boat cruises in scenic Mystic
- Guided by experienced local captain and storyteller
- Vintage wooden boat showcasing Mystic River beauty
- Ideal for sightseeing, relaxation, and memorable outings
- Convenient online booking and same-day scheduling available
- Operating daily with seasonal sunset-based cruise times
Payment methods
- Cash
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Services
Our private cruise service is designed for guests who value exclusivity and flexibility on the Mystic River. The entire boat is reserved for your party, allowing a quiet, personal atmosphere from boarding to return. With customizable daytime or sunset outings, we provide a smooth, elegant way to enjoy local scenery at your own pace. 
We offer sunset cruises designed to deliver more than transportation on the water. Each cruise is carefully operated to create a memorable and refined experience for our guests. Many visitors consistently describe this service as a highlight of their time with us. Booking is straightforward, with flexible scheduling to accommodate seasonal sunset times. 
Our romantic cruise service is crafted to help couples share a moment they will value long after the journey ends. Many guests consider it a highlight of their time with us. Rather than simply sightseeing, we emphasize intimacy and togetherness. These cruises are offered under our regular private cruise pricing. Every detail supports a refined and memorable experience. 
We offer family cruises designed to create meaningful time together while enjoying the natural beauty of the river. Each cruise provides a calm and enjoyable experience focused on togetherness rather than transportation. Our pricing is simple and transparent, with one flat rate for the entire boat. Booking is straightforward, and same-day scheduling is available when possible.
Reviews (14)
Siobhan Lofblad
Oct 29, 2025
We took the Mystic River cruise this weekend and it was perfect. The Captain had everything we could have needed or wanted to have a comfortable and enjoyable evening on the boat. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the area and highlighted really cool spots to explore. He gave us a phenomenal dinner recommendation. He knew all the places to get good photos as well. If you are looking for an unforgettable night on the water, this is the way to do it!
Mark Bernatz
Oct 12, 2025
CPT. Eric runs a wonderfully relaxing tour! My wife and I are touring the area and stumbled upon his charter and are happier for it!
He offered options as to what parts of the area we toured, and was happy to offer not just history about landmarks and the area in general but also made suggestions of places and restaurants not to miss. His boat is charming and comfortable and we wouldn't hesitate to give him the highest marks!
He offered options as to what parts of the area we toured, and was happy to offer not just history about landmarks and the area in general but also made suggestions of places and restaurants not to miss. His boat is charming and comfortable and we wouldn't hesitate to give him the highest marks!
Shane Lyons
Oct 06, 2025
Staci Wright
Sep 26, 2025
Christopher Coraluzzi
Sep 11, 2025
We like to charter boats on our vacations to see the sights by water. We picked Captain Eric and his Mystic River Cruises and we couldnt be happier.
My wife, myself, and our 110 pound Great Pyrenees Moose had plenty of room to walk around if we chose.. Captain Eric is a wealth of knowledge about Mystic and the surrounding islands. We had a great conversation talking about a million different topics.
He gave us suggestions for food, places to visit, things to do. We knew he knew what he was talking about because almost every boat we passed all waved and knew him. Why go anywhere else when this guy is available! You wont be disappointed. Moose approved too!
My wife, myself, and our 110 pound Great Pyrenees Moose had plenty of room to walk around if we chose.. Captain Eric is a wealth of knowledge about Mystic and the surrounding islands. We had a great conversation talking about a million different topics.
He gave us suggestions for food, places to visit, things to do. We knew he knew what he was talking about because almost every boat we passed all waved and knew him. Why go anywhere else when this guy is available! You wont be disappointed. Moose approved too!
David Beaudette
Aug 20, 2025
Gary Passanante
Aug 19, 2025
Captain Eric was gracious and very knowledgeable of the area being a lifelong resident.
The cruise was comfortable, informative and we were blessed with a beautiful sunset.
We were a party of six so it was us and the captain.
I would highly recommend this unforgettable cruise as Im sure you will find it as eventful as we did!
The cruise was comfortable, informative and we were blessed with a beautiful sunset.
We were a party of six so it was us and the captain.
I would highly recommend this unforgettable cruise as Im sure you will find it as eventful as we did!
Marcia Scott
Aug 18, 2025
Captain Erick was welcoming, attentive, professional, and informative. From the moment we set off the atmosphere was peaceful and refreshing. The 90 minute ride was the perfect amount of time. Captain Erick kept in touch so we knew where to park and how to meet him. I would highly recommend this tour.
Jasmine Gonzalez
Aug 13, 2025
Captain Eric, is a great host to his guest. He is very informative with the entire area stretching out as far NY & RI. I enjoyed the tour it was so relaxing & the sun was just right. Cheers to the Novelty!!! Check it out you will not regret it. Charter it for a couple hours time slots go fast !! Jasmine L.
Ben Conner
Jul 17, 2025
We had a great time with Capt. Erick.
Hes got great knowledge about the area and its history and kept things light and interesting during the cruise.
From the day I booked until the day before the cruise, Erick was responsive to any questions I had via cell phone or his website. That sort of customer service is in short supply sometimes.
His sunset cruise is a must-do if youre in the area.
Thank you for a wonderful night, Capt. Erick.
Hes got great knowledge about the area and its history and kept things light and interesting during the cruise.
From the day I booked until the day before the cruise, Erick was responsive to any questions I had via cell phone or his website. That sort of customer service is in short supply sometimes.
His sunset cruise is a must-do if youre in the area.
Thank you for a wonderful night, Capt. Erick.
Savannah Rafferty
Nov 10, 2024
I cant say enough great things about Captain Erick! This trip was wonderful from beginning to end.
Captain Erick did an amazing job giving us the history of the area. He showed us on his wooden table map exactly where we were and what we were looking at as we were sailing. Pointing out the surrounding islands, giving us the backstory to some of the houses and people who lived there. He offered blankets to us when it got a bit windy, my friend ended up using it in the attached photo.
It felt like we were with an old friend for the entirety of the trip, we had great conversation and learned some stuff too. Id recommend this tour to anyone visiting or passing through the area.
Captain Erick did an amazing job giving us the history of the area. He showed us on his wooden table map exactly where we were and what we were looking at as we were sailing. Pointing out the surrounding islands, giving us the backstory to some of the houses and people who lived there. He offered blankets to us when it got a bit windy, my friend ended up using it in the attached photo.
It felt like we were with an old friend for the entirety of the trip, we had great conversation and learned some stuff too. Id recommend this tour to anyone visiting or passing through the area.
Jillian Vandal
Aug 20, 2022
Had an amazing time on this private cruise. Captain Erick was professional and confirmed the morning of via text that we would still be cruising. Parking and finding the boat was very easy. Parked in the Red 36 parking lot and followed the Mystic River Cruises signs. We arrived early and it wasnt long before we were on the water. Saw many great homes and Captain Erick gave us some history of the homes and area along the way. Was very relaxing and peaceful. We brought a cooler with some drinks and some crackers for snacks. It was a great 90 min ride and I am sure glad we went. The wooden boat was beautiful and well kept. Thank you again Captain Erick!
N. Bellone
Jun 18, 2021
Captain Eric is an incredible guide. This is our 2nd year taking the sunset cruise and never disappoints. The classic boat is like none other in the area. We had the whole boat to ourselves as is usual practice. This is a very personalized tour of the Mystic area you will bot get anywhere else. Do not hesitate to schedule your cruise early in the season. I called in early June and Captain Eric was already well into filling his calendar.
Molly Lahey
Nov 14, 2018
Came across Ericks company while searching for things to do after dining at the restaurant Red 36 besides dessert. My girlfriend and I had an amazing sunset tour on a Saturday evening. Such a sweet guy. Tour was one of a kind. Very detail oriented. Complimentary hot fresh apple cider and blankets. BYOB and snacks. Tour was about 1hr 30 mins. Worth the price. Would do again. Plus Trevor the dog was a plus, such a cutie!