If lighthouses beckon to you, book a lighthouse cruise from Cross Sound Cruises. The two-hour cruises out of New London, CT and Orient Point, NY feature experienced guides ready to regale you with the history of each lighthouse, as well as tales of seafaring legends. Cruise in comfort on the sun-soaked decks of a catamaran or while enjoying an ice-cold cocktail in an air-conditioned lounge. The Classic Lighthouse Tour out of New London passes two Revolutionary-Era forts, North Dumpling Light, haunted Race Rock Light and New London Harbor Light, among others. The Lights & Sights Cruise heads east to Rhode Island, passing Latimer Reef Light and Watch Hill Light, authorized by Thomas Jefferson. The Long Island Lights Tour out of Orient Point goes by Little Gull, Race Rock and many others.

Take to the sea in style with a cruise aboard the vessels of the Cross Sound Ferry. For nearly 50 years, the ferry service has been transporting passengers, with and without their vehicles, from Long Island, NY to New London, CT. With comfortable seating on decks with stunning views of the sound, lighthouses and passing boats, the ferries are a great way to relax en route to the quaint villages, wineries and other attractions of Long Island or the Coast Guard and Maritime museums and beaches and boardwalks of New London. From New London, take a coach to the Foxwoods Resort Casino, or rent a car for the short drive to Mystic. The auto ferry takes about an hour and 20 minutes; the high-speed passenger-only ferry takes 45 minutes. Each has a deli and bar.

Party boat fishing at its finest: That’s what the experienced crew at Blackhawk Sport Fishing works to make happen for every person booking one of their fishing charters. Whether you’re fishing for porgy in early May, an 8-pound bluefish in June, cod in late fall or sea bass in November, booking with this local, trusted sport-fishing charter means you will not come home without dinner. Rod and reel rentals are available, and a galley serves hot dogs, burgers, snacks and beverages. (A reasonable amount of canned beer is OK to bring on board.) Members of the crew will fillet and clean your catch for a nominal fee so you can bring it home — or donate it to a local soup kitchen or food bank.

The Connecticut River Museum floats a full slate of exciting cruises on two unique vessels so guests can explore and enjoy the river. Take an afternoon or evening cruise aboard the Onrust, a re-creation of the vessel Adriaen Block built in 1614. The vessel was built using traditional plans and methods. River cruises — sunset sails, sunset tree swallow sails and other themed trips — are offered most Wednesdays through Sundays. For a different type of voyage, board the RiverQuest, a 64-foot eco-tour boat that glides along the lower Connecticut River. Special cruises for kids and their families are offered throughout the season. See osprey, lighthouses and serene sunsets. Winter wildlife eagle cruises, spring and fall foliage cruises, full moon cruises, and others are also offered. Private charters on both vessels are available for weddings, reunions, company outings and other special occasions.