Cruise the Sound

On Sat., Jan. 7 (12 p.m.) & Sun., Jan 8 (1 p.m.) cruise out with staff members of the Maritime Aquarium in hopes of spotting some of the seals that come into Long Island Sound each winter. Together with the staff you will seek out the seals to observe them near the Norwalk Islands as they “haul out” to rest on rocks exposed at low tide.

These cruises will be offered many weekends through March 26. Dates and departure times vary by low tide.

During the 2.5-hour cruises, educators will talk about the seals’ natural histories and use artifacts to discuss seal anatomy. And they’ll discuss what happens with the Sound’s marine population during the winter: who stays, who migrates out and who migrates in (besides the seals).

These cruises also give birders unique “on-the-water” access to see and photograph visiting winter waterfowl, such as buffleheads, mergansers, Brant geese and long-tailed ducks.

Binoculars will be provided. R/V Spirit of the Sound has a climate-controlled cabin. All participants must be at least 42 inches tall.

Tickets are $29.95 ($24.95 for Aquarium members). Advance reservations are strongly recommended. Walk-up tickets will be sold, space permitting. Reserve your tickets by calling (203) 852-0700, ext. 2206.