At Mystic River Cruises, we offer a distinctive way to discover the character and scenery of Mystic from the water. Our vintage picnic boat, originally built in 1947, has been carefully restored to preserve its classic elegance while providing a comfortable and exclusive setting for up to six passengers. Each cruise is personally captained by Erick, whose extensive maritime credentials and deep appreciation for Mystics heritage shape every journey. Along the route, we provide thoughtful narration that brings the rivers past and present to life in a refined and welcoming manner.
Our company was established to create meaningful on-the-water experiences that reflect both history and hospitality. For more than a decade, travelers have chosen us for our commitment to authenticity, attention to detail, and relaxed pacing. We offer private daily and sunset cruises, allowing guests to enjoy the river according to their preferences and schedule. Whether celebrating a special moment or simply seeking a peaceful escape, our goal is to deliver an experience that feels personal and memorable. With Mystic River Cruises, every voyage is carefully curated to ensure lasting impressions.
Our company was established to create meaningful on-the-water experiences that reflect both history and hospitality. For more than a decade, travelers have chosen us for our commitment to authenticity, attention to detail, and relaxed pacing. We offer private daily and sunset cruises, allowing guests to enjoy the river according to their preferences and schedule. Whether celebrating a special moment or simply seeking a peaceful escape, our goal is to deliver an experience that feels personal and memorable. With Mystic River Cruises, every voyage is carefully curated to ensure lasting impressions.
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
Discover Mystic Your Way
When it comes to exploring Mystic, theres no better way than by water. Our private boat cruises in Mystic give you and your group the exclusive experience of the Mystic River aboard a beautifully maintained, classic wooden picnic boat. Unlike public tours, where you share the space with strangers, this is a fully private charter designed around your needs. Whether youre celebrating a special occasion, entertaining visitors, or simply enjoying a sunny day, a private cruise ensures you do it in comfort and style.
From the moment you step aboard, youll notice the differencequiet, intimate, and entirely yours. No lines, no crowds, just the open river, charming scenery, and the freedom to relax. Many guests describe this as their favorite way to see Mystic, and for good reason. Its the ultimate blend of leisure, luxury, and local charm.
When it comes to exploring Mystic, theres no better way than by water. Our private boat cruises in Mystic give you and your group the exclusive experience of the Mystic River aboard a beautifully maintained, classic wooden picnic boat. Unlike public tours, where you share the space with strangers, this is a fully private charter designed around your needs. Whether youre celebrating a special occasion, entertaining visitors, or simply enjoying a sunny day, a private cruise ensures you do it in comfort and style.
From the moment you step aboard, youll notice the differencequiet, intimate, and entirely yours. No lines, no crowds, just the open river, charming scenery, and the freedom to relax. Many guests describe this as their favorite way to see Mystic, and for good reason. Its the ultimate blend of leisure, luxury, and local charm.
The Magic of Golden Hour
Few experiences can rival the beauty of a sunset boat cruise in Mystic. As the day comes to an end, the Mystic River transforms into a canvas of glowing colorsshades of orange, pink, and gold reflecting across the water. Our private sunset cruises let you and your guests enjoy this stunning moment from the best seat in town: a charming wooden picnic boat.
Sunset in Mystic is a sight to behold, and on the water, youll feel completely immersed in the moment. Whether youre a couple looking for romance, friends sharing laughs, or a family making memories, this cruise offers a breathtaking way to end the day.
Few experiences can rival the beauty of a sunset boat cruise in Mystic. As the day comes to an end, the Mystic River transforms into a canvas of glowing colorsshades of orange, pink, and gold reflecting across the water. Our private sunset cruises let you and your guests enjoy this stunning moment from the best seat in town: a charming wooden picnic boat.
Sunset in Mystic is a sight to behold, and on the water, youll feel completely immersed in the moment. Whether youre a couple looking for romance, friends sharing laughs, or a family making memories, this cruise offers a breathtaking way to end the day.
A Perfect Setting for Two
There are few things more magical than a romantic boat cruise in Mystic. Imagine gliding across calm waters, the sun dipping below the horizon, and the charming backdrop of a historic New England town. Whether youre celebrating an anniversary, planning a proposal, or simply looking for an unforgettable date night, our private cruises provide the perfect atmosphere for love and connection.
Unlike crowded dinner cruises or noisy public tours, your cruise is entirely privatejust you, your partner, and the serene beauty of the Mystic River. Our classic wooden picnic boat sets the mood with its warm charm and cozy seating, making it the ideal setting for meaningful moments.
There are few things more magical than a romantic boat cruise in Mystic. Imagine gliding across calm waters, the sun dipping below the horizon, and the charming backdrop of a historic New England town. Whether youre celebrating an anniversary, planning a proposal, or simply looking for an unforgettable date night, our private cruises provide the perfect atmosphere for love and connection.
Unlike crowded dinner cruises or noisy public tours, your cruise is entirely privatejust you, your partner, and the serene beauty of the Mystic River. Our classic wooden picnic boat sets the mood with its warm charm and cozy seating, making it the ideal setting for meaningful moments.
Fun for All Ages
Looking for a family-friendly way to explore Mystic? Our private family boat cruises in Mystic are designed to entertain guests of all ages. Safe, private, and filled with adventure, these cruises are the perfect way to bring your loved ones together for a day on the water.
Unlike crowded tours, our cruises are exclusively for your groupjust your family and no one else. Kids love the excitement of being on the water, while parents appreciate the peaceful setting and beautiful views. Its an outing everyone can enjoy.
Looking for a family-friendly way to explore Mystic? Our private family boat cruises in Mystic are designed to entertain guests of all ages. Safe, private, and filled with adventure, these cruises are the perfect way to bring your loved ones together for a day on the water.
Unlike crowded tours, our cruises are exclusively for your groupjust your family and no one else. Kids love the excitement of being on the water, while parents appreciate the peaceful setting and beautiful views. Its an outing everyone can enjoy.
Reviews (14)
Mark Bernatz
Oct 12, 2025
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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
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Michaela Kenyon
Sep 27, 2025
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We had the absolute best experience with Mystic River Cruises! My fianc and I booked a cruise for our engagement photoshoot, and it could not have been more perfect. From the moment we stepped on board, the Erick was welcoming, attentive, and incredibly accommodating. He went above and beyond to make sure us and our dog were comfortable and had everything we needed. Erick let us spend a significant amount of time photographing the boat while docked and even held our dog on her leash for us. After we finished up, he still gave us the entire cruise time. The boat itself was beautiful and the views were stunning. Ericks genuine kindness made the day so enjoyable. We cant recommend Mystic River Cruises enough!!
Linda Stout
Aug 28, 2025
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David Beaudette
Aug 20, 2025
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Rachel Edic
Jul 21, 2025
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Ben Conner
Jul 17, 2025
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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.
Emily Penza
Jul 10, 2025
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My husband booked a sunset cruise for my birthday, and the experience was wonderful. Captain Erick was informative across a plethora of topics, and he was engaging and dynamic.
He managed to hit sunset just right, and made a point to take pictures at some lovely spots for us.
The whole tour felt safe and calm, and that's saying something from a person with some anxiety.
I would highly recommend booking with Mystic River Cruises.
He managed to hit sunset just right, and made a point to take pictures at some lovely spots for us.
The whole tour felt safe and calm, and that's saying something from a person with some anxiety.
I would highly recommend booking with Mystic River Cruises.
Michelle Cortazzo
Nov 14, 2024
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Peter Zambito
Jun 04, 2024
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Foster Walker
Jun 05, 2023
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My family of 6 raved about this perfectly timed sunset cruise. They enjoyed Erik's anecdotes, eating recommendations, and historical knowledge of the people, boats, landmarks, and local points of interest. He was an excellent host and boat captain! Of all the things we did over a week in Mystic, this is the one they talked about most. He does this town proud.
Brianna Holt
Nov 01, 2022
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Robert O'Brien
Jun 13, 2022
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Captain Eric is a perfect host and guide. First cruise of the day, very peaceful and serene for our twentieth anniversary. The scenic route is as informative as the historic route. Securing reservations and getting answers and directions could not have been easier.
We were most grateful for the privacy option on this cruise. Thank you, Captain Eric, for a most memorable anniversary celebration.
We were most grateful for the privacy option on this cruise. Thank you, Captain Eric, for a most memorable anniversary celebration.
Brian Baldwin
May 28, 2019
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The sunset cruise was awesome. Captain Erick kept in touch with confirmation and updates via text. He put us in the right spot to get us great photo opportunities of the sunset. He is personable. The price is very good/competitive. He runs his cruise later in the season than everyone else. There are still some good days and evenings left this season. Take advantage of them if you can. He will provide blankets if needed and hot cider now that the temperature is running cooler. (BYOB) The boat is in very good condition and very clean. Many fun facts about the islands. We enjoyed the cruise very much and highly recommend it!