Courses

Knowing and Enjoying the Connecticut River

Spend a day on the Connecticut River aboard the Riverquest cruiser enjoying commentary on the history and ecology of the river. Learn about the geology of the river valley, birds and fishes, and some history of the river’s shipping and commercial importance. Hear the latest news and discussion about the health of the river. Staff includes Captain Mark Yuknat and his wife, Mindy Yuknat who own and operate the Riverquest. The day also will feature Jelle DeBoer, an authority on the geological history of the river. Box lunches will be provided. The present plan is to have lunch on one of the beaches at Selden Island. 


Instructor: Mark and Mindy Yuknat

Saturday, May 14, 2016 - $125
9:30–10am      Sign in: Riverquest dock in Haddam
10am – noon   Cruise, with a stop in Essex
Noon–1pm       Lunch on Selden Island
1–4pm            Cruise, with a stop and visit to Gillette Castle
4pm               Disembark

Directions to the Riverquest dock in Haddam
*From the west: Route 9 to Exit 7 (Route 82 East). Follow signs for Route 82 east through Tylerville Center. Park entrance will be on your right just after the railroad tracks and before the swing bridge.
*From the East: From East Haddam, cross the Connecticut River on Route 82 over the swing bridge. Park entrance will be on your left before the train tracks.

Mark and Mindy Yuknat
CAPTAIN MARK YUKNAT has many years of experience as a captain on the lower Connecticut River and has a 100 ton master’s license issued by the United States Coast Guard. He knows every nook and cranny of the lower Connecticut River and has a keen eye for spotting wildlife. Year in and year out, he has witnessed the changing river population as some migrate with the seasons and some have made a permanent home.

MINDY YUKNAT is the weekend and evening crew member of the Riverquest. She has a 100 ton master’s license issued by the United States Coast Guard. Known for her gift of gab and love of nature, Ms. Yuknat makes sure that all passengers are comfortable, happy, and do not miss a thing.