Want ideas for Essex, CT

[R. Palaia]

Planning a cruise to Essex,Ct. Any ideas on what marina to stay at?? We prefer slips, not a mooring. Planning to stay 3 nights.Thanks,Roc

[Paul Akers]

Essex is a great place to visit. 5 miles up river from Saybrook. We usually stay at Brewer's Dauntless Marina. An alternative would be Essex Island Marina. (Pools, grills, amenities). Great town to walk and shop in. If you have children (even yourself) take the steam train/ferry boat ride on the river. Be sure to eat at the Griswold Inn. And have fun

[Mark Johnson]

I have always stayed at Brewers Dauntless, but if you have kids, I think that Essex Island is more family oriented. Don't forget to take a dinghy ride to Hamburg cove. Usually crowded, but a beautiful spot. Enjoy!

[Paul Akers]

Go ALL the way up into Hamburg Cove with the dink. It's a winding narrow chanel and like going into a time warp. Small town - just like going exploring. Also some big homes along the waterfront.

[SteveC]

to the general public..... too great a place to hang out & swim for a day. It'll get too crowded. Another attraction (if it's still there...haven't been there in years) is Gilette Castle a bit further up on the East side of the river. We anchored just north of the ferry (west side of the river), dinked to the ferry, took the ferry to the east side of the river and spent a few hours touring the castle. Just be SURE THE HOOK IS HOLDING SECURELY because there is a current.....

[Rich Lemieux]

Gilette Castle is a great place but, close for a year long renovation.