Research vessel ‘Sound Explorer’ welcomes aquarium visitors to Long Island Sound

RV Sound Explorer photo via The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk (10 N Water St, Norwalk, CT 06854) has officially launched its new research vessel, R/V Sound Explorer, just in time for summer. The vessel gives Aquarium visitors the opportunity to learn about nature, wildlife and conservation in Long Island Sound onboard its “floating classroom” with public tours starting in June.

As part of the organization’s commitment to being “An Aquarium without Walls,” the R/V Sound Explorer provides a vital new opportunity for marine education and research in Long Island Sound and supports hands-on learning for all. The Marine Life Encounter Cruise invites visitors to learn about the biodiversity of the Sound alongside Aquarium scientists and educators, featuring a plankton tow that brings up fish, crabs, mollusks and more. For those looking for a more casual cruise, the Sunset Cruise offers a unique perspective on the beauty of the Norwalk islands and surrounding wildlife. Private charters for school, scout, camp and other groups are also available.

“Our onboard education programs bring students and families right into the heart of our work,” said Jason Patlis, President & CEO of The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. “We are thrilled to offer our visitors an up-close-and-personal look at Long Island Sound to learn about how we are all connected to – and responsible for – this unique ecosystem.”

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk has had a rich history on onboard programming since it opened in 1988. Over the past 22 years, Aquarium vessels have hosted more than 85,000 passengers to celebrate the natural beauty and learn about the unique animal habitats of Long Island Sound. The Aquarium’s other vessel, the R/V Spirit of the Sound was the first-ever, hybrid-electric, battery-powered research vessel in the U.S. when she launched in 2014 and is currently off-hire while being repowered with a new system. The Fowler Family, including The Maritime Aquarium’s Board Chair Clay Fowler, generously supported the expansion of the Aquarium’s fleet to include the R/V Sound Explorer.

“We are so pleased to be able to offer our visitors onboard programming once again,” said Board Chair Clay Fowler. “The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is committed to connecting people personally to Long Island Sound, so they can be awed by the beauty of this place and inspired to protect it.”

Educational tours for school groups are already underway; public tours on R/V Sound Explorer begin June 25, 2025. Passengers must be over 42 inches tall and if under 18 accompanied by an adult.

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Research vessel ‘Sound Explorer’ welcomes aquarium visitors to Long Island Sound