On Saturday the ships will be departing Niantic at 9:30 and the official parade u the Thames River begins at 10:00 a.m. I remember that it was very impressive to see sailors lined up all over the mast arms (I know that's not the correct term), see the flags, and listen to the music. I'm not familiar enough with the area or comfortable leading a group, but hope somebody else will pick up the lead. I don't think I've ever been out of Dock Road, but that looks close and we wouldn't have to cross the river. Jay has some good suggestions, too, and it would be nice to have a place to get out for lunch. We might have gone out of Bluff Point years ago. I just remember coming out of a fairly wide cove and hanging right. We were right up in front, trying not to drift over the invisible line between the buoys.

: The best launch site to paddle close to the tall ships is probably
: Dock Road in the Pleasure Beach section of Waterford
: (overlooking Millstone). Even if you're a little late, head
: south and then west. They'll pass right by you on their way to
: NL.

: Some TNPers might be heading out on Friday evening (6:00ish?) to
: paddle amongst the boats while they are at anchor. Not sure
: where they're launching from.