Old Saybrook Cruising Guide: Best Tips, Marinas, and Attractions for Boaters

Post by - Published on 10/14/24 4:00 AM

Old Saybrook, Connecticut, Cruising Guide

Old Saybrook, located at the mouth of the Connecticut River, is a charming New England harbor that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Boaters will find excellent docking facilities, scenic vistas, and plenty of nearby attractions to explore. This guide will help you navigate the harbor and make the most of your visit.

Quick Facts
For the Vessel (Dockage/Mooring Options)
Provisioning
For the crew 
Essential Services 
Insider's Tips
Community Connections

Quick Facts

Old Saybrook Harbor Details

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Coordinates

41.2833° N, 72.3492° W

explore 

Charts

NOAA Chart 12375 

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Best time to visit
May through September
 

water 

Mean tidal range

~2.7'

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Gas and diesel fuel

Yes - Available at Saybrook Point Marina (gas and diesel)

Old Saybrook, Connecticut Waterfront Contacts 
US Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound 

Ch. 16, (410) 576-2525

SeaTow

Ch. 9, 16, (860) 767-0578

Pump out 

Available at Saybrook Point Marina and Harbor One Marina. 
 

For the Vessel - Dockages & Moorings in Old Saybrook

1. Harbor One Marina

Harbor One Marina at the Mouth of the Connecticut River

Harbor One Marina provides 150 slips accommodating vessels up to 80 feet. This family-friendly marina offers easy access to Long Island Sound, making it a great stopover for cruisers. With modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere, it's a prime spot to dock while exploring Old Saybrook.
 
Location

26 Bridge St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475

Fuel:

No 

Electric Options

30 AMP, Dual 30 AMP, 50 AMP, Dual 50 AMP, 100 AMP, Dual 100 AMP

Facilities

Pump-out, water, dockage, travel lift

Best protected from

W, NW, N

Max LOA

150'

More info about facilities and additional amenities here

2. Saybrook Point Marina

Located at the mouth of The Connecticut Rive, Saybrook Point Marina overlooks the sunset

Located at the mouth of the Connecticut River in historic Old Saybrook, Saybrook Point Marina offers world class amenities and provides high quality service to yachts of all sizes. On site, you will find friendly concierge service, award winning cuisine, AAA Four Diamond hotel, an indulgent spa, and state-of-the-art health club. 
 
Location

2 Bridge St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475

Fuel:

Yes - gas and diesel available 

Electric Options

30 amp, Dual 30 Amp, 50 amp, DUAL 50 AMP - 240 VOLT, 100 AMP Single Phase, Dual 100 AMP Single Phase, 100 AMP Three Phase

Facilities

Pump-out, water, dockage, dry storage, captains lounge, short walk to downtown

Best protected from

W, NW, N

Max LOA

200'

More info about facilities and additional amenities here

 

Provisioning

Marine Supplies
Grocery Stores
  • Stop & Shop: 105 Elm St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475
  • Big Y: 22 Spencer Plain Rd, Old Saybrook, CT 06475

 

  • Local Markets

For The Crew

Old Saybrook offers plenty to see and do, from quaint downtown shopping to nearby nature trails and historical landmarks. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the blend of small-town charm and natural beauty.

Historical Sites

Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse
The Entrance to the Connecticut River, marked by Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse

Parks & Trails
  • Harvey's Beach
    Perfect for a relaxing afternoon on the water, this beach offers sandy shores and picnic spots.
  • The Preserve
    963 acres of walking trails, wetlands, and forest perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Dining & Nightlife
  • Fresh Salt
    Located right at Saybrook Point Marina, this waterfront spot features locally sourced seafood like lobster rolls and scallops. Perfect for sunset dining with craft cocktails and great views of your boat!
  • Penny Lane Pub
    A cozy downtown pub offering classic fare like burgers and fish & chips, plus a good selection of craft beers. Ideal for casual dining after a day on the water.
  • Liv’s Oyster Bar
    Known for its raw bar and fresh oysters, Liv’s offers a range of seasonal seafood dishes in a modern, laid-back setting. Just a short walk from the marina.
  • The Black Seal Seafood Grille:
    A casual favorite a few towns over in Essex, known for New England-style seafood and hearty meals, with a lively bar atmosphere for unwinding after a day at sea.

Best Connecticut Beaches

 

Essential Services

Medical Facilities
  • Middlesex Health Shoreline Medical Center: 250 Flat Rock Pl, Westbrook, CT 06498

Boat Repair & Maintenance

Travel Options
  • Bradley International Airport (1 hour drive)
  • Uber/Lyft available throughout Old Saybrook

Insider's Tips

Local Legends

  • The Ghost of Abigail Fenwick: One of Old Saybrook’s most famous legends involves Abigail Fenwick, a woman who lived in the 17th century. Her fiancé, a sailor, perished at sea, and it's said that her spirit still waits for him along the shores of the Connecticut River. Locals claim to see her ghostly figure on foggy nights, wandering the water’s edge in a long dress, calling out for her lost love.

  • The Curse of Captain Kidd’s Treasure: Legendary pirate Captain William Kidd is rumored to have buried treasure along the Connecticut coastline, including somewhere near Old Saybrook. According to local lore, his ghost fiercely guards the hidden bounty. Many have searched for the treasure, but it’s said that the curse of Kidd ensures none will ever find it without dire consequences.

  • The Phantom Ship of Old Saybrook: This centuries-old maritime tale speaks of a ghost ship seen off the coast, especially on stormy nights. The spectral vessel, with its tattered sails, is said to appear out of the mist, only to vanish without a trace. Some believe it’s the spirit of a long-lost merchant ship that never made it to port, while others claim it's a warning of bad weather ahead. 

Harbor Guide Marina Snipits (45)Photo taken upriver of Old Saybrook in East Haddam, Connecticut 

Photography Spots
  • Saybrook Breakwater Light: Iconic lighthouse with panoramic views of Long Island Sound.
  • Harvey’s Beach: Ideal for capturing sunset shots over the water.

Old Saybrook Breakwater Guiding Cruisers into the Connecticut River from Long Island SoundOld Saybrook Breakwater Guiding Cruisers into the Connecticut River from Long Island Sound

Local Knowledge
  • Due to it's proximity to the river mouth, Old Saybrook is a great stopover for cruisers headed South for the winter via Long Island Sound. 
  • To cruise further upriver to popular destinations like Essex, Connecticut, you will have to navigate through a handful of bridges and obstacles. Be sure to study the charts ahead of time to be prepared. 

Community Connections

Local Charters and Activities
  • Old Saybrook is a magical destination where the Connecticut River meets Long Island Sound, making it an ideal spot for water activities. During your visit, be sure to experience charter boat fishing! Saybrook Point Marina hosts a variety of charter options that you can view here. 

Fishing in Annapolis Maryland

 

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