The Final Leg

After a wonderful night enjoying the NYC sights from across the Hudson River, we left Liberty Landing Marina early this morning amidst the ever frenetic marine traffic of ferries, water taxis, barges, tankers and tugs. I learned very early that these commercial vessels operate under the "rule of big" -- in other words, whoever is the biggest, gets to go first! None the less, we navigated our way through the busy harbor and headed north (east) on the East River toward Long Island Sound.

Departing Liberty Landing Marina

Fortunately, the tide and current was in our favor (not to mention calm winds) so the always challenging Hell Gate was nothing more than a mild pool of rushing water as we went through. From there, it was all "down hill" as we entered Long Island Sound in what my local NY boating friend called a "Grade A Day". And indeed it was -- calm, smooth and most enjoyable for most of the ride right down the center of the Sound toward our final destination, Essex, CT.

A calm day on Long Island Sound

In the center of the Sound headed to the Connecticut River

As we entered the Connecticut River, there was a certain sense of satisfaction (and relief) that came over us. We had just spent the past 17 days traveling 1,445 miles through 10 states on the Atlantic coast waterways and it was, in no uncertain terms, a real accomplishment for us. Over the years, we have developed a real "rhythm" to running the boat, handling the lines, navigating the waters, while all the time taking in our surroundings and savoring the moment together. 

And that is really what this trip was all about -- together. With the water, with the wind, with nature's beauty, with the people along the way, and most importantly, with each other.

Cocoa FL tp Essex CT

Entering the Connecticut River at Old Saybrook Point

Our "home" for the summer