Last Chance: Hudson River Sunset Sail

While here in Bronxville-Eastchester we may enjoy strolling along the Bronx River, there certainly is nothing quite like taking a boat ride down the Hudson River, especially at sunset.

On Thursday, Jul. 12, you can sail the Hudson River for two and a half hours on the A. J. Meerwald, a beautifully restored schooner and New Jersey’s official Tall Ship, from 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

“The ship brings people back to a simpler time,” says Captain Jesse Briggs, a native of Virginia who has been working on boats since he was ten years old.

“There’s no engine sound, and you travel at a leisurely pace. People relax and enjoy the scenery. How far we go depends on the wind and tide.”

Sit back and relax. Watch the majestic Palisades and New York skyline glide by. Or take a turn steering the ship, raising and furling the sails, and handling the lines.

Sailing on the A. J. Meerwald is an authentic living-history experience. Participants can participate in a discussion about the New York Harbor’s rich maritime heritage and the history of the A. J. Meerwald and the oyster industry.

The A. J. Meerwald is an 85-foot schooner with over 3,500 square feet of sail. Launched in 1928, the Meerwald was one of hundreds of schooners built along South Jersey's Delaware Bayshore for oystering and clamming. Governor Christine Whitman added the A. J. Meerwald to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.

Tickets are $50 per person and support the work of Beczak Environmental Education Center. There are limited spots available and you can register at beczak.org.

Children are welcome with parents and you can bring your own refreshments, with beer and wine also permitted onboard.

Parking is at Beczak Environmental Education Center, located at 35 Alexander Street in Yonkers. The ship departs from the Yonkers Pier, a short walk away.

For more information contact weekends@beczak.org or call 914-377-1900, ext. 13.