You can stroll through downtown Mystic, dine along the river, and shop the waterfront boutiques, but the town feels entirely different once you see it from the deck of a sailing ship. Argia Mystic Cruises offers one of the most distinctive ways to experience the shoreline, combining ocean breezes, glowing skies, and scenic views along the Mystic River that feel timeless and quintessentially New England.
Whether you are planning a romantic weekend getaway or searching for unforgettable things to do in Mystic, Connecticut, an evening aboard the Argia belongs at the top of your itinerary. Back on land, the town makes it easy to continue the coastal experience. Spend the evening lingering over fresh seafood and waterfront cocktails, browse locally owned boutiques along Main Street, or wander the harbor as boats drift through the river at dusk.
After a sunset cruise in Mystic, Connecticut, visitors quickly discover why so many guests choose to stay downtown at The Whaler’s Inn. Located in the heart of downtown, our boutique Mystic hotel places guests steps from the waterfront, some of the best Mystic restaurants, including The Shipwright’s Daughter, shopping, and many of the area’s most popular attractions, while offering a refined coastal experience that feels far more upscale and personal than larger accommodations. Book your stay today!
Grab your sunglasses and your sea legs, a sunset cruise in Mystic, CT, with Argia Mystic Cruises is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the Connecticut coast. As the schooner leaves the dock and glides through the Mystic River toward Fishers Island Sound, guests are treated to panoramic waterfront views, salty ocean air, and a sunset that slowly lights up the sky. Along the way, you may spot historic homes, passing sailboats, and coastal wildlife. Among the many Mystic cruises available throughout the season, the sunset sail with the Argia Mystic Cruises captures the character of coastal New England on the last commercial sailing ship left in Mystic.
Along the sail, guests can enjoy views of historic waterfront homes, classic New England shoreline scenery, and several iconic coastal lighthouses. Morning and afternoon Argia Mystic Cruises often pass near Morgan Point Lighthouse at the mouth of the Mystic River, while some routes may also include views of North Dumpling Island Lighthouse and Latimer Reef Lighthouse. Although the sail is not specifically a lighthouse tour, the crew shares fascinating stories about the area’s maritime history throughout the cruise.
In addition to their popular Mystic sunset cruise experiences, Argia Mystic Cruises also offers daytime public sails, private charters, and themed specialty cruises throughout the season. Thursday evening music sails feature live performances from Geoff Kaufman, known for traditional sea chanteys and maritime music, and James Harris, a local favorite who performs acoustic classics and modern rock aboard the schooner. Guests can also reserve spots on the Seaside Shadows Haunted Seafarers cruise, where storytellers share eerie tales tied to shipwrecks, colonial history, and Mystic’s maritime past. These themed Mystic River cruises offer a unique way to experience the shoreline while enjoying local entertainment and storytelling.
Guests are welcome to bring their own picnic basket along with beer or wine to enjoy during the sail, while complimentary lemonade and chilled water are available onboard. With seating spread across the open deck, guests can comfortably enjoy the scenery and move around for different views during the cruise. Since temperatures can cool quickly on the water after sunset, bringing an extra layer is highly recommended, along with sunglasses, sunblock, a camera, and binoculars. The schooner also includes onboard restroom facilities, though guests with limited mobility may prefer using nearby public restrooms before departure.
Planning your sail aboard Argia Mystic Cruises is easy, especially if you book ahead during the busy summer season. Cruises depart daily from Steamboat Wharf in downtown Mystic and typically run for two hours. Current public sailings are offered in the morning, afternoon, and at sunset. Pricing varies throughout the season depending on the cruise and time of year. Sunset sails and weekend Mystic River cruises are usually the most popular and tend to sell out first, so reserving tickets in advance is highly recommended. Guests board at 12 Steamboat Wharf in downtown Mystic, a short distance from our Bed and Breakfast, directly across the Bascule Bridge.
Whether you are planning one of the most romantic boat rides in Connecticut or simply adding another activity to your list of Mystic, Connecticut things to do, a sail aboard the Argia is one of the most classic ways to experience the area.
After an evening aboard Argia Mystic Cruises, The Whaler’s Inn offers the perfect place to unwind in downtown Mystic. Located steps from the waterfront and many popular things to do, this Mystic hotel combines modern comfort with classic New England character. Guest rooms are thoughtfully designed with upscale details, comfortable furnishings, and a relaxed coastal feel that fits perfectly with a Mystic getaway.
The property is home to two standout Mystic restaurant options, The Shipwright’s Daughter, known for its fine dining and seasonal seafood-focused menu, and Mystic Fish Camp, across the street from our hotel, a more casual spot for oysters, cocktails, and coastal favorites. Guests can start the morning with coffee and breakfast at The Shipwright’s Daughter, where thoughtfully prepared à la carte dishes highlight seasonal New England ingredients, before heading out to explore Mystic sailboat cruises, local shops, and waterfront attractions. Staying at our Mystic hotel keeps the best of downtown right outside your door. Book your stay with us today!