October 11, 2007 - Nyack, NY

Today was another overcast and cool day on the magnificent Hudson. We spent the day steering from the pilothouse. In spite of the leaden skies, we still enjoyed the scenery along the shores. The day ended with us dropping the anchor at Nyack, NY - an anchorage recommended by our friends, Carl and Nancy Meyers. As we approached the anchorage, the rain started. Jerry planned ahead, donning a swimsuit and foul weather jacket. You guessed it - the rain stopped before he had to go on the bow to drop the anchor.

We continued to see interesting homes along the way. We especially liked this small outbuilding that was covered with crab and lobster bouys.

This stone boathouse and gazebo were perched on the river's edge. The hills rose up steeply from the banks. Not too much fall color yet.

Many of the homes remind us of those we have seen on Mackinac Island, with their grand verandas. These are adjacent to our anchorage.

On both the Erie Canal and the Hudson River, the railroads preceeded the growth in population and the private acquistion of waterfront property. Consequently, the railroad tracks run directly along the edge of both of these beautiful waterways. Here is a freight train along the Hudson. In some areas, the hills descend steeply and directly to the water, so the train tracks disappear into brief tunnels, emerging shortly again into view.

This is Pollepel Island located in the middle of the Hudson River. This replica of a medieval castle was built in the early 1900's by a munitions dealer as a summer resort and storehouse for his goods. The place burned in the late 60's and is now owned by the State of New York.

The Military Academy at West Point continues to be a magnificent sight.

As we go further south on the Hudson, we notice the increasing steepness of the hill country. At our anchorage, we are approximately fifteen miles north of New York City.

The forecast for tomorrow is for storms and strong winds from the west, so we plan to stay here until Saturday. We want to see the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty without all the rain and mist which are predicted for tomorrow.