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Watch Long Island Sound go molten gold from the water on this easy Sunset Cruise out of New London. Expect lighthouse silhouettes, harbor seals, and a short, family-friendly run timed for perfect light.
Watch Long Island Sound go molten gold from the water on this easy Sunset Cruise out of New London. Expect lighthouse silhouettes, harbor seals, and a short, family-friendly run timed for perfect light.
Book with Good Company Connecticut Fishing Charter
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Operated by Good Company Connecticut Fishing Charter · New London, Connecticut
On a clear evening off New London, Connecticut, the sun slides toward Long Island Sound and the town's working waterfront takes on a burnished glow. The Sunset Cruise departs from New London's harbor and carries passengers out past the Thames River channel, past Fort Trumbull and the shipping piers, and into wide open water where a low, glacially scoured coastline and scattered islands frame the sky. Salt marshes, rocky headlands and the squat white tower of New London Ledge Light pass by as terns wheel and ospreys quarter the shallows.
This outing is simple by design: a comfortable coastal run that foregrounds waterfront history and natural spectacle. As the boat eases through tidal rips, you can pick out the naval yards across the river, the silhouette of piers and cranes, and, with luck, harbor seals loafing on ledges. The geology here - bedrock smoothed by Pleistocene ice and edged by beaches - gives every angle a tactile quality; seabirds and late-blooming beach grasses add seasonal color. Local mariners will tell stories of 19th-century whaling and shipbuilding, and the town's maritime roots remain visible in weathered wharves and cannon-strewn Fort Trumbull.
Why take this cruise? It compresses the region's coastal character into an easily digestible hour or two: accessible vistas, close encounters with seabirds and seals, and the dramatic moment when the sun slips behind the Sound, turning windows and water molten gold. For photographers, the lighthouse and the harbor skyline become graphic silhouettes; for families, the gentle motion and short route make the outing friendly for kids and older adults.
Practical notes: departures are usually timed to catch sunset—reserve a spot early on summer weekends. Dress in layers; the temperature on the water falls quickly even after a warm shore day. Bring a camera with a fast shutter speed for wildlife shots and binoculars for distant boat traffic or birdlife. If you are prone to motion sickness, pick a seat near the centerline and consider over-the-counter remedies.
Onboard, crew point out landmarks and explain tidal currents and local ecology; conversations unfold as the boat circles to find the best light. Nights after sunset can reveal a clean horizon of stars and the sound's ferry lights; lingering on the stern with a warm drink is a local ritual. Small-group runs keep the experience intimate; larger boats amplify communal feel. Whether you arrive on foot from New London or a nearby marina, the cruise is a low-effort way to read this shore.
easy.
1.5–2 hours.
Light — suitable for most people who can climb a short boarding ladder and stand for portions of the cruise.
Typical sail time is about 1.5 to 2 hours, timed so you’re on the water for sunset.
Yes; the gentle motion and short duration make it suitable for children and older adults, though infants should be secured and supervised.
Choose a midship seat, look at the horizon, and consider taking an over-the-counter remedy before boarding if you are prone to motion sickness.
Policies vary; contact the booking operator directly to confirm whether small, leashed pets are permitted.
Yes — harbor seals, ospreys, and various shorebirds are commonly seen, especially near rocky ledges and marsh edges.
A camera with a telephoto or zoom, polarizing filter for glare, and steady hands or a fast shutter speed will improve wildlife and sunset shots.
New London’s maritime economy dates back to the 17th century; shipbuilding and whaling shaped the waterfront you now pass by on the cruise.
Keep a respectful distance from wildlife, avoid single-use plastics on board, and support local harbor cleanups to protect the Sound.
Good Company Connecticut Fishing Charter operates from New London, Connecticut, and runs guided fishing trips aboard the Good Company II. Capt. Doug Parker leads each outing, bringing a lifetime of experience to every trip. The business offers two primary experiences: a Private Fishing Charter and an Open Boat Charter. On the Private Fishing Charter, Capt. Doug Parker and his crew provide a personalized fishing adventure. Anglers can relax in the cozy cabin, share stories with the crew, and pursue striped bass, bluefish, and other local sportfish. The Open Boat Charter offers an accessible, shared-boat option with the same experienced captain and familiar cabin comforts. Both trips emphasize a focus on enjoyable time on the water and opportunities to catch striped bass and bluefish. The Good Company II serves as the platform for these outings, offering shelter and a crew-supported experience. Guests should expect an emphasis on hospitality and a knowledgeable captain who has dedicated a lifetime to fishing and running charters. Good Company Connecticut Fishing Charter presents clear, straightforward options for visitors looking for a fishing-focused day from New London. Trip summaries highlight the experienced captain, the cozy cabin aboard the Good Company II, and the chance to create lasting memories while pursuing popular sportfish. Prospective guests can choose between a private charter for a tailored experience or an open boat charter to join other anglers and enjoy shared time on the water. Booking details and departure times are available directly from the business; inquire by phone or email today.
Book with Good Company Connecticut Fishing Charter