New London’s Maritime Festival to feature live, virtual events

New London — A livestreamed 9/11 memorial service will mark the start of this year’s Connecticut Maritime Heritage Festival, which will feature “live family-friendly events and online experiences,” OpSail Connecticut, the nonprofit that organizes the festival, announced Monday.

The festival, which has revolved around appearances by sailing ships and Navy vessels in recent years, has been scaled back because of public health concerns associated with the coronavirus pandemic. This year’s event, Sept. 1113, will celebrate the maritime history of New London and Groton, providing free harbor rides and discounts at local restaurants.

“This event has been a part of New London’s history for generations, and we decided early on that we wanted to do everything we could to continue this tradition in a way that celebrates our maritime heritage in a safe and family-friendly way,” said David Crocker, vice president of the OpSail Connecticut Board of Directors. “After months of planning, we have worked to find a balance that both protects the public health and offers an engaging experience for festival attendees.”

The 9/11 service, to be attended by invited guests, will take place on the Nautilus Pier in Groton and will be live streamed on Facebook, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Other events include free Thames River Heritage Park Water Taxi tours, Project Oceanology touch tanks, and a state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection fishing clinic.

The festival also will include virtual tours of ships as well as educational opportunities and other activities for children. For more information, visit ctmaritimefest.com.