Set sail with Bela Musits and Mike Malekoff in this exciting new episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States. In Episode 150, our co-hosts recount their memorable voyage from Sandy Hook, New Jersey, to Croton-on-Hudson, New York, aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon sailboat. This leg of their multi-day journey brings them through the iconic New York Harbor, under the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and into the scenic, tide-influenced waters of the Hudson River.

In This Episode:

• Departure from Atlantic Highlands Marina at first light.
  

• Crossing New York Harbor and entering the Hudson River through the Narrows.
  

• The impact of tides and currents on their progress upriver.
  

• Passing under major bridges including the Verrazzano-Narrows and George Washington.
  

• Sailing past the skyline of Manhattan and navigating busy shipping lanes.
  

• Dealing with barge traffic and negotiating safe passage.
  

• Arrival at Half Moon Bay Marina in Croton-on-Hudson after a 50-nautical-mile journey.
  

Highlights & Reflections: Bela and Mike share firsthand insights into trip planning, navigation decisions, and the challenges of timing tides correctly. They discuss why wind, tide, and commercial traffic can make or break a day on the water—especially on the Hudson River. Mike, who sails less frequently, offers a fresh perspective on the adventure, while Bela—an experienced sailor—explains the importance of strategic route planning and situational awareness.

You’ll hear how they handled strong currents, spotted landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Palisades, and maintained safe passage through one of the busiest and most historic waterways in the United States. Bela reflects on how a calm day with minimal wind provided an ideal opportunity to motor efficiently while soaking in the scenery.

Why This Episode Matters: If you're planning to cruise up the Hudson River or pass through New York Harbor by sailboat or powerboat, this episode is packed with real-world insights. Bela and Mike's conversation touches on navigation strategies, safe anchoring, and their experiences at marinas along the route. This episode is a great resource for novice and seasoned cruisers alike.

Keywords for SEO and Discoverability: Hudson River sailing, New York Harbor sailing, cruising the East Coast, Hunter 44 Deck Salon, ICW sailing, sailing podcast, East Coast sailing tips, Sandy Hook sailboats, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, George Washington Bridge sailing, Half Moon Bay Marina, Croton-on-Hudson, nautical podcast, sailing in New Jersey, New York boating.

Follow Along: This episode is part of a larger series chronicling Bela and Mike’s relocation of the Hunter 44 Deck Salon from Brunswick, Georgia, to Burlington, Vermont. Make sure to check out earlier and future episodes for a full look at their multi-week cruise up the U.S. East Coast.

Listen Now and Join the Journey! Whether you’re an aspiring cruiser, armchair sailor, or experienced mariner, Episode 150 delivers a blend of nautical insight and on-the-water storytelling. Set your course for this informative and entertaining episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States.

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Thanks for Listening!If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing the podcast — it helps more sailors and dreamers discover the show. Have a sailing story or technical tip you’d like to share? Reach out via email at [email protected]