Connecticut: Rail & Sail

Connecticut: Rail & Sail

Trip Duration: 2 Days

 

 

Trip Inclusions:

• Meals: 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

• Tour Director

• Overnight accommodations

• Deluxe motorcoach transportation

• Taxes 

 

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Ride

Coal-fired locomotives pull lovingly restored railroad cars. Enjoy the exciting "All Aboard" as the engineer checks the locomotive before the run, and then embark upon an authentic journey back to the days of steam complete with the hiss of steam, the blast of the whistle, and the clickety-clack of the tracks.

 

Travel northward from Essex Station, through the scenic towns of Deep River and Chester, viewing pristine meadows, picturesque farms, a millpond with a waterfall, and several bridges over rivers and creeks. Travel along the Connecticut River near Deep River and see the undeveloped Selden Neck State Park, as well as other coves and preserves accessible only by boat. Pass near the tidal wetlands of Pratt Cove and Chester Creek where river wetlands provide a perfect habitat for birds such as Cormorants, ducks, swans, Greenland Geese, Blue Heron, Egrets, and Red-winged Blackbirds. The 12 mile, round-trip ride takes about an hour, traveling at a top speed of 20 mph.

Disembark at Deep River Station for the riverboat ride.

 

Board a riverboat for a relaxing and informative ride up the beautiful Connecticut River, from Deep River to East Haddam, and learn about the history and natural wonders of the river. See coves and inlets, islets and deep water, each home to fish, fowl, and river vegetation. Bald Eagles can even be spotted along the river during some seasons. Catch a glimpse of some man-made wonders such as bridges, ferries, and river-front homes. Highlights include the historic Goodspeed Opera House and Gillette Castle.

 

Shore Line Trolley Museum

Your visit begins at Sprague Station, at the end of River Street in East Haven, where you learn about trolley history and technology in the indoor exhibit rooms. Then, proceed outside and board one of their restored historic trolley cars for a trip down the scenic Branford Electric Railway!

 

It's a journey back in time you will not soon forget! Hear the sounds of steel on steel as you smell the sweet aroma of the shoreline salt marsh and view wildlife such as the majestic Osprey. This leisurely adventure takes you away from the hustle and bustle of modern day life. The railway is the oldest continuously operating suburban trolley line in the United States.

 

Foxwoods Casino

The biggest and best casino in the world disguised as a hideway in the Connectitcut woods with three magnificent casinos including the world's biggest smoke-free casino. Over 4,000 slot machines, Blackjack, Craps, Roulette and Baccarat as well as high stakes Bingo, Keno, Poker Room, and the ultimate race book, with full track odds complete this fabulous gaming destination. Foxwoods Resort Casino also features a wide variety of dining options, entertainment, attractions, and shopping.

 

 

Meal Information:

 

Boxed Lunch Aboard the Essex Riverboat offers a choice of:

• Ham sandwich w/ lettuce, tomato, cheese

• Turkey sandwich w/ lettuce, tomato, cheese

• Roast Beef sandwich w/ lettuce, tomato, cheese

• Veggie sandwich w/ lettuce, tomato, cheese.

Meal includes potato chips, a bottle of water, and a cookie.

 

 

Need to Know:

Please note, at the Hampton Inn, Norwich, CT there is no baggage handling; please plan to handle your own luggage while staying at this hotel.

 

 

Accessibility:

 

Essex Steam Train: The train cars are antiques, nearly a century old, and are not wheelchaip accessible. There are 4 steps between the station platform and the floor level of the train. Additionally, the doorway into the train car is less than 27 inches wide. Insurance regulations do not permit railroad personnel to assist. If the wheelchair can be folded, it can be brought onto the train car.

 

Essex River Boat: There is one step from ground level to the boat's gang plank, and one step down into the boat.

 

Shoreline Trolley Museum: As authentic historic artifacts, the trolley cars have not been modified. Passengers board the trolleys knowing they will need to climb 2-3 steps to get aboard each car. Visitors with mobility disabilities who choose not to ride the trolley may still enjoy the indoor exhibits, restrooms, and other facilities in their fully-accessible Sprague Station building.

 

Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Hampton Inn, Norwich, CT

The hotel features an indoor pool and fitness room. Guestrooms include refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, iron/board, and hairdryer. Please note, there is no baggage handling; please plan to handle your own luggage while staying at this hotel.