New York City

This morning we left Port Washington and headed down the East River for Manhattan,

I had done my homework on the tides and currents and decided that 11:30 was the best time for us to leave. At about 9AM, other boats started leaving. I tracked them on AIS, and they were heading toward the East River. But, they’re leaving too early and they’ll have to fight the current. If they’d just wait a couple of hours the conditions would be perfect.

Then I started thinking they know something that I don’t. I stuck to my guns. Don’t follow the herd, it only leads you to slaughter. I’ll wait and enjoy the favorable current.

We made it and yes, they did know something I didn’t know. They fought the current so they could go through Hells Gate at slack water (no current) which is the best, or maybe the only way, one should take a sailboat through. I had the full current going with me, just as I had planned.

It was rough and turbulent waters. There were eddies, whirlpools, and waves. Steering was very difficult because the current and waves were knocking us around. It reminded me of white water rafting, except I was in my sailboat.

On a positive note, we were the only boat transiting the area. For a beautiful Sunday afternoon in New York City thats shocking. It seems everyone except me knows to wait for slack water when going through Hells Gate.

Next time, I’ll follow the Swedish boat. They were the first to leave and the ones I was tracking on AIS. I suspect they have a lot of experience with tides and currents.

Tomorrow we get up early and make our way up the Hudson to Croton on Hudson. We booked a slip at a nice marina for a night. But, I’m sure we’ll add a night. Haven’t had unlimited hot water since Portland.

Here are some pictures from our anchorage