Circumnavigate Manhattan - Boat too small?

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dfny36

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Sep 26, 2009
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31729
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Anyone have any experience circumnavigating Manhattan in a bowrider or other small boat?

I have a 22ft bowrider, usually used around Haverstraw. Would you have any concerns going around NYC if it's a calm day?

One of my concerns would be the ferry traffic. I assume it's quieter on the weekend due to reduced commuter traffic. Unless there is tourist traffic that takes its place?

If safe and enjoyable, I would consider doing this on Sunday, from the Hazard's ramp at the GWB.

Thanks in advance for any thoughts!
 
Weekend ferry traffic is usually light, although this weekend is Fleet Week, so you might see more.

Of greater concern is the East River, when the tide is flowing, there are some very large standing waves that can be difficult to deal with.

Plan your trip to be on the east river during slack tide and you'll be OK.

You may have to call the Sputen Duyvil bridge on channel 13 to request an opening.
 
My son and I traveled from Patchogue on the south shore of Long Island up to Albany returning via the Long Island Sound all in a 21ft open bow boat, totalling 545 miles. At times the Hudson seemed as bad as the ocean, but we took our time and kept the bow cover on to avoid the possibility of taking on water.
I agree with Hogan in that the East River along with Hells Gate provided a challenge as we were against the current, but simply added a little more power and we went right thru it.
We are traveling down to the Chesapeake in the same boat in a few weeks, so that will provide yet another adventure!
Take your time and you should have a great time.
 
I did it on a 23 ft bowrider. Put the canvas on the bow section so water rolled off rather than swamped me. I was not the most comfortable ride but it was do able. Mike is right...the East River can get real dicey & during the week with the ferry traffic...YIKES!
 
As of last week, the Spyten Divel Bridge was inoperable. Check first to make sure it is back in operation.
 
Did it in a 21 cuddy. Easy. Truth be told, I rexomend going Dow te Hudson and up the east river to Hell Gate and turn around. Not a lot to look at on the upper east side and te Bronx.
 
I've always thought the stretch from the Manhattan Bridge, around Battery Park, and back up the Hudson to about the Passenger Piers to be the most challenging stretch - Always seem to be the busiest and roughest. IF you take your time you should be ok, but IMHO that section may not be fun at all ....
 
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