The Abandoned Islands sailing tour offered by Classic Harbor Line is catnip to the urban explorer. Leaving from Pier 62 aboard The Manhattan ship, the tour takes you through the majestic waters of the Hudson to the mysterious waters of the East River, which we learned is a misnomer because it’s a saltwater tidal estuary, not a river.

Led by expert naturalists like Gabriel Willow or Russell Jacobs, the tour brings history to life. You’ll hear captivating stories about the islands’ past, once home to quarantine hospitals, including the infamous North Brother Island where Typhoid Mary was held, and gain insight into the wildlife that now inhabits these serene bird sanctuaries. Bring binoculars if you can, but don’t worry, they have extras onboard.

Timed perfectly with sunset, the views are absolutely breathtaking. Watching the golden light fall over the city skyline and these quiet, forgotten islands is an experience you won’t forget. The tour also glides past Mill Rock Island, once fortified during the War of 1812, and Belmont Island, a byproduct of tunnel excavation, adding even more layers of history to the journey.

The little Islands offer intriguing stories; U Thant Island, named after the former secretary general of the United Nations, was a retreat for a group of meditators who worked at the UN. Jacob Rupert, the early owner of the New York Yankees, had a summer home on South Brother island. Our tour guide offers urban legends of a young Babe Ruth visiting Rupert, as well as the tale of the HMS Hussar; a ship carrying immense coffers of gold that sunk near Hell Gate, some of New York’s most treacherous waters. Although the Babe Ruth story is more myth than truth, and the gold was never discovered, these islands are a treasure to the imagination.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time on the Classic Harbor Line’s Abandoned Islands cruise. The ship was beautiful, and guests are able to be inside or go out onto the deck. They also have a bar with a selection of drinks as well as small bites, which were delicious. This was my first opportunity to explore the city on water, and it was mesmerizing. The three-hour trip was completely worth my time and I can’t wait to join Classic Harbor for another tour opportunity! ” Brynn Theurer

“DOWNTOWN Magazine’s CEO Grace Capobianco invited me to Classic Harbor Line’s Urban Naturalist Tour: Abandoned Islands of the East River at Sunset departing from Chelsea Piers, Pier 62. I truly enjoyed listening and learning about NYC’s archipelago guided by their superbly entertaining urban naturalist Gabriel Willow! Loved having a sip of bubbles while gazing through binoculars they provided on this three hour cruise!! So fun to go birding and learn about our NYC islands! I highly recommend it.”  Jo”Ann Dean

 

 

 

Bonus: your ticket includes a glass of bubbly and a sandwich, perfect for settling in and soaking up the scenery.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, history buff or nature lover, this tour is a peaceful, eye-opening way to rediscover New York from a totally different vantage point, offering an elevated experience more than Audubon/New York Bird Alliance-sanctioned events. Ticket prices are $112/adult and $86, child. For reservations for the Abandoned Islands Tour with Classic Harbor Line, visit sail-nyc.com