The boats are staffed by all levels of volunteers learning to sail, headed up by an experienced captain. Passengers bring snacks to eat and share around the boat, as everyone enjoys the ride together. I have driven over the Hudson River countless times, I have gone swimming in it, but this sailboat ride helped me feel more connected to it. There’s a limit of around a dozen guests, plus volunteer staff added to that, so it’s an intimate ride. The sail lasts anywhere from two to two-and-a-half hours, and the ride is peppered with information about the river and the history of the boat. It feels a little long to hold my kids’ interest – plus, you have to remain seated, which would be tough for them to do the entire time – but it made for a perfect outing with my husband.
The Beacon Sloop Club is located at 2 Red Flynn Drive in Beacon. For reservations or more information, call (845) 297-7697 or visit www.beaconsloop.org.