The CT Beacon

In Our Nation's Defense: Military Stories on the Thames Boat Tour
2026-07-03 15:00 - 16:00, 2026-07-04 11:30 - 13:00, 2026-07-04 15:00 - 16:30, 2026-07-05 13:30 - 15:00, 2026-07-05 15:00 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | Submarine Force Library & Museum, 1 Crystal Lake Rd, Groton, 06340, United States
In Our Nation’s Defense: Military Stories on the Thames Boat Tour explores more than 250 years of military history aboard a narrated cruise along one of America’s most strategically important waterways. Departing from the Submarine Force Museum in Groton throughout Fourth of July weekend, this guided excursion examines the Thames River’s role in protecting the nation from the American Revolution to today’s submarine fleet.
Led by a knowledgeable docent, the tour highlights the people, places, and events that have shaped the Thames River’s military legacy. Passengers will learn about the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, both World Wars, and the rise of modern submarine warfare while cruising past landmarks including the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and Naval Submarine Base New London.
Designed for history enthusiasts, military families, and visitors looking for a unique way to experience the region, the tour welcomes guests of all ages. Visitors are encouraged to bring beverages and snacks aboard while enjoying scenic views and stories that showcase why southeastern Connecticut has played such an important role in the nation’s defense.
Event Details

Event: In Our Nation’s Defense: Military Stories on the Thames Boat Tour
Dates:

Friday, July 3, 2026
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Sunday, July 5, 2026

Departure Location: Nautilus Dock at the Submarine Force Library & Museum
Location: Groton, CT
Admission: Ticket required — click “website” link at the bottom of this page.

Tour Schedule
Friday, July 3

3:00-4:15 p.m.

Saturday, July 4

11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m.
3:00-4:15 p.m.

Sunday, July 5

1:30-2:45 p.m.
3:00-4:15 p.m.

Tour Highlights
During the narrated cruise, guests will learn about:

The Thames River during the American Revolution
The War of 1812
World War I
World War II
The development of modern submarine warfare
Naval Submarine Base New London
U.S. Coast Guard Academy
Southeastern Connecticut’s military heritage

What to Bring
Guests are welcome to bring:

A cooler
Beverages
Snacks

The tour is appropriate for visitors of all ages.
Important Information

Tours depart from the Nautilus Dock at the Submarine Force Library & Museum.
Historic Boat Tours operate Friday through Sunday.
Tours are weather dependent.
Check the organizer’s website or social media for schedule updates before attending.
Advance tickets are recommended: click “website” link at the bottom of this page.

Contact

Phone: (860) 333-6706

Why Take the Tour?
The Thames River has served as a center of American military history for centuries. From Revolutionary War battles to the birthplace of the nation’s submarine force, this narrated cruise offers an opportunity to experience the landmarks and stories that helped shape the country’s defense while enjoying a scenic trip on the river.
