As the peak travel season approaches, a new destination has emerged in New York City this summer. Passengers now have the opportunity to board a 1920s-style cruise ship to witness the rare beauty of the islands along the eastern Hudson River in New York.
The newly opened route will run from now until July, sailing every Sunday evening at 6:45 p.m. It starts from Belmont Island at Chelsea Pier 62, passing by Roosevelt Island and Randall’s Island before reaching Mill Rock at the entrance to the Harlem River.
The three-hour journey also includes a visit to the historically significant North Brother Island and South Brother Island, which are steeped in legend.
Guiding the tour is naturalist Gabriel Willow, who will provide insights to tourists about the wildlife and past events of the islands. This includes stories such as Typhoid Mary’s tragic tale and the history of Jacob Ruppert, the former owner of the Yankees, who purchased and utilized South Brother Island.
During the Civil War, South Brother Island served as a base for federal soldiers before being acquired by Ruppert and now belongs to New York City as a bird sanctuary.
Mill Rock served as a fortress during the War of 1812. Belmont Island, the starting point of the cruise, is an artificial island situated east of the United Nations headquarters. It was constructed in the 1990s when an underground tram tunnel was being built.
To fully appreciate the sights, the cruise company recommends passengers bring binoculars. Tickets for the cruise cost $124 and include a glass of champagne and a sandwich.