If you prefer not to drive, here a few other options for getting to our trips, whether launching on the Connecticut River:

• Shore Line East trains (which connect seamlessly with Metro-North in New Haven) stop in Old Saybrook
• as does Amtrak
• for those in the local region, there is 9 Town Transit's bus service

Or on the Westport:

• Dattco offers commuter bus service from Boston to both UMASS Dartmouth and New Bedford
• Megabus has service to Fall River
• MBTA commuter rail goes to Providence, as does Amtrak

Transport from the above to the water's edge can be arranged, and all of the above except Amtrak and Megabus permit bicycles.