Maritime Aquarium Offers Fireworks Cruises on July 3rd and 4th

Enjoy a special water view of holiday displays in Norwalk, and avoid the crowds and traffic, by coming aboard one of the Fireworks Cruises offered by The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk.

The Aquarium is offering cruises to two fireworks displays aboard its R/V Spirit of the Sound, the country’s first research vessel with quiet “green” hybrid-electric propulsion. The 64-foot catamaran has two deck levels for optimum viewing enjoyment.

Here’s the Aquarium’s patriotic-pyrotechnics plan:

• Wed., July 3 – Norwalk’s Calf Pasture Beach display

• Thurs., July 4 – Rowayton display

Each cruise departs at 7 p.m. from The Maritime Aquarium dock (outside the IMAX^® Theater). Return is expected by 11 p.m. Food in small soft-sided coolers is allowed aboard the boat, but alcoholic beverages and glass bottles are prohibited.

“These cruises offer an unobstructed view of the sunset and then of a fantastic fireworks show, both beautifully reflected on the water,” said Dave Sigworth, the Aquarium’s spokesman. “And, afterward, by returning by boat to the Aquarium, you don’t have to sit in your car for an hour trying to get home.”

Tickets are $75 ($70 for Aquarium members). All participants must be at least 42 inches tall to board. Those under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. R/V Spirit of the Sound has a climate-controlled cabin but participants should dress for time outside on deck, where the best viewing occurs. There is a restroom onboard.

Capacity is limited so advance reservations are strongly suggested. Reserve your tickets online – and see the full summer schedule of public cruises – at www.maritimeaquarium.org.