Romance in New York City – Sailing the Hudson River

Perhaps it’s because both myself and Mrs Romance come from islands that we love New York City so much.

Okay so our islands are a bit different to Manhattan, but let’s not get caught up in details.

The important thing is we love New York. We’ve spent quite a bit of time talking about the best way to see this city – and there are a lot of options.

Strolling through the chaotic streets of the Big Apple is definitely one of the best ways to see this amazing island city. There’s nothing like that street level in-the-thick-of-it feeling.

If you want a bird’s eye view, head to one of the many tourist-friendly skyscrapers. Or if you’re Donald Trump, hop in a helicopter and do it in real style!

For us though, the most unique views of Manhattan were from the deck of a boat. Mrs Romance has wanted to sail the Hudson River for ages. She’s no sailor, but the words ‘cruise’, ‘sunset’ and ‘romantic’ in a setting like New York loaded her imagination.

Mrs Romance’s imagination wasn’t to be disappointed.

After a hot tip from Nikki from Styling You, Mrs R booked a sunset sail on the Schooner Adirondack. This 80-foot schooner sets sail regularly on the Hudson. She holds up to 42 guests so you never feel too crowded.

The cruise lasts for two hours and takes  you south along to the tip of Manhattan and out to get a closer view of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. As we sailed out along the river – Manhattan on our left and New Jersey on our right – we drank in the views.

Talking of drinking, every guest is served a few complimentary beverages during the cruise. Choose from local craft beers, sparkling wine or soft drinks.

As we sipped our refreshments, the low-rise of the Meatpacking District and the West Village gave way to the towering skyscrapers of the money district and Wall Street. We finally came to Battery Park and the end of the island.

We headed towards Staten Island, passing the beautiful Statue of Liberty.

By the time we turned around and started on our homeward leg, the sun was perched on Lady Liberty’s shoulder, dipping towards the western horizon.

Ellis Island – historically more important but visually somewhat less dramatic – looked dark and industrial in the fading light. We wondered at all the people coming to America all those years ago. Seeking their dreams, a new life, a new world.

Manhattan looked amazing as we coasted back to port. The lights of the metropolis glimmered and sparkled in the night sky, and the sleepless city showed us her bright eyes.

We docked back at Chelsea Piers with the rest of the evening ahead of us.

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There are other ways to explore New York by water. The Staten Island Ferry, the Circular Line Ferry… you could even kayak if you wanted to. But this sailing cruise is definitely the best way to see the greatest city in the world.

Summary:

Who?

www.sail-nyc.com

Where?

The Schooner Adirondack sets sail from Chelsea Piers off West 22nd Street.

How much?

Prices will differ depending on the type of cruise. The sunset cruise was $64 per person.

Tickets are available online at www.sail-nyc.com/schooner-adirondack-sails

How long?

The cruise lasts for two hours and goes as far as the northern point of Staten Island, past Liberty Island.

What’s included?

Drinks are included but not food. On your way to depart at Chelsea Pier, stop in at the Chelsea Market to pick up a picnic for on board. We recommend stopping The Lobster Place for a lobster roll. Delicious!

Images by Mrs Romance.