New York to Port Washington

Hi everyone,

This morning we motored up the East River past Manhattan to Port Washington on Long Island.  The river is very tidal so the time of our passage was tied to the flow.  Seeing Manhattan up close brought back memories of 9/11.  While passing Manhattan we copped a rain storm which added drama.

Manhattan

Here are the usual plots, plus a look at our speed...

Track

Arrival Track

Graphs

Speed Graph with 11 knots max SOG

We slept well at the Lady Liberty anchorage.  Turned out we didn't need diesel immediately so this morning we headed off directly for Manhattan.  Many, many ferries and quite a few barge & tug combos to contend with.

Liberty Island with Manhattan in the background

Statue of Liberty

Lots of ferries and police boats

The rain storm hit as we passed Battery Point at the S end of Manhattan.  It poured for five minutes then passed on.

Wet Mike!

Drying-out Mike at Brooklyn Bridge

Manhattan Bridge

United Nations

Buildings old and new

Queensboro Bridge to Roosevelt Island

After leaving Roosevelt Island to starboard we passed through Hell Gate.  Even though the name is based on the Dutch name Hellegat ("bright strait" or "clear opening") its easy to understand why Hell Gate stuck.  Lots of tide with whirlpools and overfalls.  Speed over Ground over 10 knots with active steering required!

Whirlpools exiting Hell Gate

Current Easing

Throg's Neck Bridge

The weather gradually cleared as we passed LaGuardia Airport and under the Bronx-Whitestone and Throg's Neck bridges.  From there it was a short distance to round Hewlett Point and enter Manhasset Bay to reach our destination of Port Washington.

On Town Mooring #2 at Port Washington

View from the mooring

The town moorings are free for the first night and US$35 per night thereafter.  Free ferry service after the first day.

We expect to stay here for several days.  We plan to train in to explore New York.