About this Event
The Norwalk Seaport Association and the Greens Ledge Light Preservation Society have teamed up to offer a five-hour exclusive cruise that includes an hour-and-a-half stop at both Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the recently opened Greens Ledge Lighthouse on June 6th, July 11`th and August 8th 2026. The boat will depart the Seaport's new dock at 90 Water Street at 8:30 a.m. and return at 1:30 p.m. This tour is open to the public and offers the rare opportunity to visit two architecturally unique lighthouses that have guided ships with welcoming beacons through Norwalk Harbor for hundreds of years.
This fascinating cruise begins as the Seaport's vessel wends its way through Norwalk Harbor, passing a necklace of habited and uninhabited islands, to its first stop, Greens Ledge Lighthouse. This recently refurbished Spark Plug Lighthouse sits on a reef named after Pirate Green, who sailed with the infamous Captain Kidd. Local legend has it that Pirate Green was tied in chains to Greens Ledge as a warning to deter the dastardly deeds of marauding buccaneers.
Greens Ledge, on the National Register, is only one of 33 remaining spark plug lighthouses in existence in the United States. Named sparkplug because of their unique shape and water-tight structure made of metal, Greens Ledge construction was completed in 1902, for $60,000 ($2.5 million in 2024 dollars) to help mariners through the rocky shoals at the west entrance of Norwalk Harbor. Today, its 90-foot tower remains an active aid to navigation with its automated light and foghorn maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard. This lighthouse, whose Rip Rap was added from the Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center excavation in 1932, is thought to be the inspiration for the legendary “Green Light” in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, The Great Gatsby. It was occupied by lightkeepers for 70 years and is owned by a non-profit that restored it for 2.5 million in 2023.
Visitors on this cruise will be able to tour both the inside of the Lighthouse as well as the outside pad and lower decks. The indoor tour includes the Trombos Research Center, the Pettee Family Gallery, the Bunkroom, Kleeman Keeper Quarters, the Maclean Watch Room, DeChellis Lookout, and the Beacon Room with its automated light. Afterward, passengers can relax at the picnic tables and in Adirondack chairs located on the deck.
Located at the southern end of the outer harbor, Sheffield Island Lighthouse, on the National Register, is the final stop on this maritime excursion. Constructed in the Victorian style in 1868 of limestone masonry, Sheffield is a classic lighthouse replete with a distinctive metal octagonal light tower in the gable that offers views of the Manhattan skyline.
This lighthouse has a fascinating history of industrious lighthouse keepers before being decommissioned in 1902 by the opening of Greens Ledge. After it closed, the island became a haven for rumrunners during prohibition, a sanctuary for mothers and children during the cholera epidemic, and the location for a country club, before the Norwalk Seaport Association saved it in 1978. Visitors can climb the tower that affords splendid views and tour the many rooms of the lighthouse that are being reinterpreted in the way light keepers would have lived here in the 19th century. Afterward, there will be enough time to picnic in the wooden pavilion, walk along the beach, use the telescope, and just enjoy Sheffield Island.
It is suggested that you pack a picnic lunch and beverages for this excursion in coolers or carry-ons that can fit beneath the seats of the vessel (18-20 inches). It is best to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. If the trip is canceled due to weather conditions, you will be notified by email. For safety reasons, wear closed-toe shoes and pack plenty of sunscreen, and don't forget to bring your sense of fun and adventure to this extraordinary experience.
Cruises will depart from our dock located at 90 Water Street. The dock location is directly across from the Grit Ninja Norwalk Gym. There is no parking at our dock & limited handicapped spaces. The closest paid parking lot is at 5 Haviland Street. https://www.parknorwalk.org
When making reservations, leave your email contact information which will be available on the day of the trip. If there is a cancellation by our captains due to weather conditions, WE WILL NOTIFY YOU VIA EMAIL. Please check your emails before leaving for your event. Tickets are non-refundable unless canceled by the Seaport Association.
All passengers need a ticket regardless of age. We are required to abide by strict U.S. Coast Guard passenger counts.
Tickets cannot be changed or refunded unless there is a weather cancellation.
Tickets are nonrefundable unless there is a weather cancellation.
Be sure to provide contact information (email) in the event we are forced to cancel due to weather conditions. Seaport cruises comply with all CDC, State, and local COVID-19 rules & guidelines.
Cooler's/Carry-On/Packages MUST fit beneath the seats per USCG Regulations, no exceptions allowed. Coolers cannot exceed 18"(H) x 18' (D) x 24" (W)
When visiting Sheffield Island Lighthouse, it’s important to take a few simple precautions to stay safe and comfortable. Insects like ticks and mosquitoes are common, so wear insect repellent and consider long sleeves and pants, especially if walking through grassy or wooded areas. Complimentary insect repellent is available on the island for your convenience. Check yourself for ticks after spending time outdoors. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and use sunscreen to protect against sunburn. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and a hat to stay cool and shield yourself from the sun. Lastly, check for any local advisories or weather updates before your trip. Taking these steps will help ensure a safe and enjoyable Sheffield Island Lighthouse visit.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
90 Water St, 90 Water Street, Norwalk, United States
USD 110.00
