By Kathy Brown.
On January 31, 2022, the Connecticut River Museum, based in Essex, purchased the vessel RiverQuest. “She will now be berthed permanently at the Steamboat Dock in Essex which is where she began 20 years ago!” said Captain Mark Yuknat. Since the Museum will now have the name RiverQuest, Captains Mark and Alex’s boat excursions will be done under the name Connecticut River Expeditions.
Captain Alex Yuknat is getting ready for another season on the 64′ boat, “Adventure.” They are booking Private Charters, as well as some of the popular public cruises, such as the Sunset, Tree Swallow, Fourth of July, which will depart from Dock #3 at Eagle Landing State Park in Haddam.
Captain Mark designed a 30′ aluminum research vessel, “R/V Keeper” that will be built by Chester Boat Works in Chester. “Keeper” will depart from Dock #1 at Eagle Landing State Park. Since it is a smaller boat, “Keeper” will be available for small group experiences, up to six passengers. “She will also be involved with a non-profit we established and other organizations that work on keeping the Connecticut River clean,” said Captain Mark.
The non-profit, which has yet to be named, is planning to take part in river cleanups, post educational information at Eagle Landing State Park, and have a small educational center at Eagle Landing State Park.
