Seaport Getting Ready for Summer 2021

The Seaport Association in Norwalk is busy getting ready for the summer 2021, season.  April is the time of year when Seaport Association volunteers are busy getting their vessel, docks, and Sheffield Island and Sheffield Island Lighthouse ready for their opening beginning the last weekend in May. This year, the Association will be offering two-hour harbor cruises as well as a cruise to Sheffield Island and its historic lighthouse.

Caryn Davis from her new book Celebrating Our Coastline and Waterways

The Association is also busy organizing this year's 43rd annual Norwalk Oyster Festival that will take place on Friday, September 10, Saturday, September 11, and Sunday, September 12. The Association's new website offers forms for organizations and businesses that want to participate in this popular and highly anticipated event. Forms for food, arts and crafts, merchandising, marketing, and non-profit organizations as well as sponsorship opportunities are all online and can be found by clicking here.

The Seaport Association is also busy organizing a special outdoor in-person, "Seaport Style" celebration that is scheduled to take place this summer. This fundraising event, which is open to the public, promises to be a "boat-load" of fun with lots of fun, food, drinks, and auction items. "We have a lot to be grateful for especially our many supporters, friends, and volunteers," said Mike Reilly, President of the Seaport Association.

The Seaport Association has also just announced that it has finalized the details for the Annual Golf Tournament that will be held on October 4, 2021, at the Silvermine Golf Club in Norwalk. The golf tournament will help support the programs for education and restoration of the Sheffield Island Lighthouse. It will include a friendly competition, prizes, raffles, food, and a gift package for every player. For more information click here.

Call for Exhibitors and Sponsors for the Norwalk Oyster Festival 2021

The Seaport Association is looking for vendors, sponsors, and exhibitors that want to get in on the fun at the 43rd annual Norwalk Oyster Festival being held this year on September 10,11, and 12, 2021 at Veterans Park in Norwalk. The festival has a proven track record making it the perfect place to showcase your business or non-profit organization.

 

The Norwalk Oyster Festival offers artists and craftspeople, non-profit community groups, museums and institutions, vendors, food concessions, and sponsors the opportunity to be associated with one of the most popular events in New England that attracts tens of thousands of people year after year. "We are seeking local and regional food merchants, clothing, jewelry and merchandising vendors, museums and institutions as well as artists and craftspeople that have interesting and unusual items to sell at our event," said Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. "We are always open to talented and innovative vendors and exhibitors. The festival is ideal for people in search of an opportunity to earn money and work at a high-energy and popular event that has been successful for 42 years. Our reputation is stellar because our festival provides valuable exposure for all that participate because it is well known and popular with the public." 

 

Applications for sponsors are now available online. Sponsors get extensive in-person exposure at this event and are aggressively promoted on the Seaport's social media platforms and in their highly successful public relations and advertising campaigns. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your business in a highly cost-effective way. For sponsorship opportunities click here. For an arts and crafts application and all the details of how to display your products click here. Applications are being accepted now through August 17, 2021. The Seaport Association will select approximately 125 arts and crafts exhibitors for the festival, so get your applications in today. Applications for nonprofits are available by clicking here.

The Norwalk Oyster Festival is tailor-made for brands and specialty products that want to interact and engage with the public. A booth at the festival allows sales and merchandising participants to enjoy valuable face time with prospects. Click here to get your Marketing and Merchandising application. If you are a food vendor or have a concession and would like to be considered for this year's festival click here for details.

 

Slots are expected to fill up quickly for this highly anticipated annual event so it is recommended to get your applications in early.

About the Norwalk Oyster Festival

Started in 1978 by a small group of people to celebrate Norwalk's maritime heritage, this festival has grown exponentially over the years attracting tens of thousands of people to one of the best events in New England of its kind. Proceeds from the Festival's support the Seaport's Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Ferry service for public access and environmental programs. Over the years, the Norwalk Seaport Association Oyster Festival has been recognized by the state of Connecticut, Library of Congress, American Bus Association, and the International Festival and Events Association as one of the top events in the country and for the vital role of the volunteers and nonprofit organizations in the production and continuing success of the Oyster Festival.

Legacy Bricks Honor the Past and Help Pave Our Future.

Have you ever wanted your name or the name of someone you wish to commemorate etched in stone? The Seaport Association's Legacy Brick program offers the public the rare opportunity to secure a place in Connecticut's maritime history through the purchase of a personalized brick that will be placed in front of the Lighthouse on Sheffield Island.

"Since 1978 the Seaport Association has maintained Sheffield Island and it's 152 year-old-lighthouse. We created this program as a chance for all lovers of Long Island Sound and Sheffield Island's Lighthouse and Lightkeepers cottage to commemorate their support for the mission of the Seaport Association. Everyone has been very supportive of this program because they are proud to be a part of our maritime heritage and our mission of preservation and education," said Mike Reilly, President of the Seaport Association.  Proceeds from the Legacy Brick program will be used to defray the cost of maintaining the island and lighthouse.

Fans of the Seaport Association that want to be a part of the Legacy brick program can secure bricks in two sizes 4x8  or 8x8 and can order the bricks with just text or with text and clip art. To view samples of legacy bricks and to purchase online click here. Along with the personally engraved bricks, fans will receive a notice of where the brick is placed and a certificate of ownership.

Charter An October Cruise with the Seaport Association

 

The best place to enjoy the fall foliage is in New England. In Norwalk, the autumn colors seem to linger longer because of its’ southern location. Here, October is epitomized by clear cool days, brilliant blue skies, vivid fall foliage, and spectacular sunsets. This year, for the first time, the Seaport Association in Norwalk is extending the opportunity to charter their vessel, the T.J. Toth through October 31, 2020. 

October is a very special time to be out on the water because the Connecticut coastline is alive with color. In addition to the foliage, October has two full moons, one during the first week of the month and the second, a rare blue full moon on October 31, that add beauty and a sense of excitement to this excursion. 

So, if you are a leaf peeper and looking for a unique foliage experience this year, charter the Seaport’s vessel, it is much less expensive than you think! The charter is two hours long and is available any time of day and at sunset during the week and on weekends for $750 or just $30 per person for twenty-five of your friends and family. Passengers are allowed to bring food and beverages on board to add to the fun. Think hot apple cider and cider donuts for the kids and mulled wine for the adults for a truly autumn experience! 

The vessel is loaded with amenities including comfortable seating in and out of the sun, siding to protect passengers from the wind, a bar area that is the perfect place to set up the beverages and goodies you bring aboard, and a full bathroom. This private excursion begins from the Seaport's dock at 10 North Water Street in Norwalk. A captain and mate are on board so you can sit back and relax and take in the fabulous scenery. The boat cruises through Norwalk Harbor while the Mate introduces passengers to the multifaceted history of the Harbor. Close up views of Norwalk's Islands, nesting ospreys, and, three lighthouses, including Sheffield Island Lighthouse are highlights of the trip all set against a backdrop of the fire colors of autumn. 

 If you are planning a special occasion or if you and your friends are looking for something really uplifting to do this October, nothing says “fun and foliage on the water” like this exclusive excursion offered by the Seaport Association. For additional information to charter, the boat call the Seaport Office at 203-838-9444 or email jerry.toni@seaport.org.

Take A September Cruise in Long Island Sound with the Seaport Association

A cruise with the Seaport Association through the Norwalk River into Long Island Sound is blissful on an autumn day. This cruise is just long enough, about two hours, to feel refreshed and recharged when you are back on land. There are 25 islands that stretch about six miles from Norwalk to Westport located about a mile off the coast.

Geologically, the islands are considered to be terminal moraines that consist of materials left by the last glacier. Some islands are rather large and others are mounds of boulders, silt, clay, sand, and vegetation from trees and beach roses to tall seagrass that sways in the breeze. These islands act as a barrier to rough seas and are one of the things that boaters like about Norwalk Harbor. This area is designated as a federal navigation channel of recreational and small harbor variety.

The cruise begins just past the Metro-North Rail Bridge and goes under the Stroffolino Bridge, a bascule bridge spanning the Norwalk River that swings upward to provide clearance for boat traffic. Mr. Stroffolino was active in the passage of a bill in the 1949 General Assembly that gave the bridge and Rte. 136 to Connecticut.

As the vessel makes its' way through Norwalk Harbor and into Long Island Sound, passengers will see Isochoda Yacht Club, one of the oldest in America founded in 1886, and Calf Pasture Beach that was used for disembarkation and encampment during the Tryon raid of the American Revolutionary War in 1779. Passengers will also glide by many of Norwalk's Islands, many with large homes on them including "Tavern Island" that was the home of Billy Rose in the 1920s, a famous entertainer and bootlegger that used this island for rum-running. 

The Islands of Norwalk are surrounded by oyster beds that are marked by stakes with red flags on them. At one time oystering was one of the lynchpins of Norwalk's economy and the city's primary industry. Oystering declined for many reasons in the 19th century, but today in the 21st century it has made a strong comeback. Part of the thrill of a cruise to Sheffield Island is to watch the oyster boats hard at work. Watching oystermen hauling up their catch of the day is an activity that has embodied the history of Norwalk for centuries and is still a commodity that the city is known for.

A highlight any time of year on this cruise is to get a water view of the three historic lighthouses that lie off Norwalk's coast, two spark plug lighthouses, Greens Ledge and Peck Ledge and, the iconic Sheffield Island Lighthouse, the crown jewel of Connecticut's maritime heritage. Located on the 57 acre Sheffield Island the Lighthouse is on the National Historic Register and is owned, maintained, and preserved by the Seaport Association. In addition to the Lighthouse, there are many wading birds that make the island their home including the roseate tern, Brant, scouter, black duck, and other waterfowl. Nesting birds on the island include ospreys and herons.  Always keep an eye peeled for harbor seals that frequent the southwest end of the island.

The Seaport Association is offering sunset cruises Wednesdays - Sundays as well as two daily cruises on Saturdays and Sundays. Please purchase your tickets in advance by clicking here.  The comfort and safety of all passengers and staff are important to the Seaport Association, for a complete list of safety protocols please click here. The vessel is limited to twenty-five passengers and masks must be worn throughout the entire cruise. The boat is also available for charter, for information 203-838-9444. To help us maintain and preserve Sheffield Island Lighthouse, please visit our #gofundmepage https://www.gofundme.com/f/preserve-the-sheffield-island-lighthouse

Seaport Association Launches Go Fund Me Campaign to Preserve and Maintain Sheffield Island Lighthouse

The Sheffield Island Lighthouse sits proudly in Long Island Sound off the coast of Norwalk. Constructed in the Victorian style in limestone masonry, Sheffield Island Lighthouse has guided mariners for more than 150 years and is cherished in Connecticut and beyond. The story of its continuing restoration and maintenance didn't happen by magic, hard work, special fundraising events, and a team of dedicated and determined volunteers is what preserves this structure that is so important to Connecticut's and Norwalk's history.

 

Today, the Seaport Association needs financial help. Along with many others, the Seaport Association has had to cancel many fundraising events because of the restrictions posed by COVID-19. As a non-profit organization, the Seaport Association operates year to year with very modest cash reserves and an army of faithful volunteers. In order to remedy the situation, the Seaport Association has created a GOFUNDME campaign to help raise desperately needed funds, which will go toward educational programs and the maintenance and preservation of Sheffield Island and the Sheffield Island Lighthouse.

 

In its long history, Sheffield Island Lighthouse has withstood many storms. "For the first time in 42 years, we had to cancel the beloved Norwalk Oyster Festival, our major fundraising event of the year, along with many other signature fundraising events. We need financial contributions to offset the loss of income from our inability to implement our key fundraisers due to COVID-19. Making donations to the Association of any size now is more important than ever," said Mike Reilly, President of the Seaport Association. "As we adjust to the new normal we want to stay positive and not lose the momentum we have so diligently strived to achieve. We need your help and are asking the public to send a financial gift." It is easy to give, just go to the GOFUNDME Page https://www.gofundme.com/f/preserve-the-sheffield-island-lighthouse or mail a check to Seaport Association, 213 Liberty Square, Norwalk, CT 06855.

 

“Together with public and corporate support, the Sheffield Island Lighthouse will continue to enlighten lives with our maritime cultural heritage, and the story of resilience and hope for generations to come,” Reilly said. “Somehow,  with everyone's help, Sheffield Island Lighthouse will weather this storm too.”

 

About the Seaport Association

In 1978, a core group of faithful volunteers formed the Seaport Association that sparked the resurgence of South Norwalk. The Seaport Association became a founding member of the Maritime Aquarium, now one of the best in the country. Members of the Seaport Association didn't stop there. Never resting on their laurels, the Seaport Association went on to purchase Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Keeper's Cottage in 1986, and, by 1989, through their efforts, the Lighthouse and Island were put on the National Register of Historic Places. Through the years, members of the Seaport Association have worked tirelessly coordinating fundraising events in order to work on the infrastructure of the island and lighthouse. Their efforts have paid off with a much better experience on the Island, continued maintenance of the Lighthouse, and even a new wooden pavilion for the public to enjoy. This year, the Seaport Association is running harbor cruises passing three lighthouses and many Norwalk Islands at half capacity due to COVID-19 restrictions.

 

Norwalk Seaport Association Offers Sunset Cruises July and August 2020

Sunset cruises top the list worldwide as one of the most popular ways to end the day…so why not book a sunset cruise with the Norwalk Seaport Association this July and August. On a sunset cruise time seems to slow down giving you the opportunity to unwind and toast the end of the day.

The Seaport’s popular Sunset Cruise floats through scenic Norwalk Harbor as the Captain's Mate tells stories of merchants and sailors that have used this waterway for centuries. Learn how Native Americans introduced oysters to English settlers and how captains of industry used this area to develop trade routes that went as far as the West Indies. The narrative gives a new understanding of Norwalk historically, and also reflects the importance of this scenic harbor today.

As the vessel travels into Long Island Sound it will give passengers a close-up view of several of the Norwalk’s islands and the beautiful homes that are built on them. The cruise also passes three historic lighthouses, Peck’s, Green Ledge, and, the maritime icon of Connecticut, Sheffield Island Lighthouse. Architecturally stunning the Sheffield Island Lighthouse is a perfect example of Victorian stone masonry. Green Ledge and Peck’s are fine examples of sparkplug lighthouses, of which only 33 remain in the United States. The view of these three lighthouses up close as the sun begins to set is magical.

 

Guests will travel in safety and comfort with no more than 25 passengers on board the vessel owned by the Seaport Association that makes social distancing a breeze. Passengers can eat, drink, and be merry on the sunset cruise because alcoholic beverages and snacks are allowed, just don’t forget to bring cups and openers! For a fun fix, Wednesday – Sunday evenings at 6:30 p.m. a sunset cruise is a perfect way to step away from the hustle and bustle you find on land and enjoy a picture-perfect sunset...on the water.

 

Sunset Cruise Schedule

The boat leaves from the dock on 10 North Water Street at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday – Sunday evenings. It is best to arrive at the dock at 6:00 p.m. to facilitate the boarding process.

 

All ticketing will be “contactless, for tickets click here or call 203-838-9444. All tickets must be purchased in advance. Sunset cruises are $30 per person. The boat sails promptly as scheduled so it is best to arrive at the dock 30 minutes before departure. The Association cannot accept cash or transaction at the Seaport Dock.

 

This year the Association is limiting the number of passengers to 25 people making social distancing a breeze in their comfortable vessel. All passengers are required to wear safety masks. In keeping with the most current safety and health protocols, the Association will offer hand sanitizer onboard and has established an extensive cleaning and hygiene regiment that goes above and beyond current regulations.