Have you been searching for some new summer date ideas in New York City? Well, we’ve got you covered! Here are our picks for romantic summer dates in New York City.
Coney Island
Image by Guusje Weeber on Unsplash
For a fun-filled day with your significant other, visit Coney Island. Complete with rides, a beach, and shops, there are fun activities that all couples will enjoy. Also, while you’re here be sure to visit Nathan’s Hotdogs. Founded in 1916, the original Nathan’s Hotdogs is on Surf Avenue in Coney Island. These all-beef hotdogs have built a reputation, making them a famous staple of the Coney Island experience. A trip to Coney Island is the perfect date for a sunny summer day.
Classic Harbor Line Cruises
Manhattan Photo by Classic Harbor Line
How about a late-night cruise on the Hudson River? With Classic Harbor Line, you can go on relaxing cruises while enjoying the beautiful sights of the city including the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and Ellis Island. One of our favorite tours is the Jazz Cruise, a 1.5-hour cruise complete with live, talented jazz musicians. This cruise is aboard the Manhattan, a stunning 1920s style yacht. A night on the water with Classic Harbor Line is most definitely a night to remember.
Museum of Modern Art
Image by Alex Palmer on Unsplash
Otherwise known as the MoMA, this popular museum is the perfect summer date to escape the heat. Featuring modern and contemporary art, the MoMA is open from 10:30 am-5:30 pm Sunday-Friday and Saturday 10:30 am-7:00 pm. Admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $14 for full-time students with ID.
Rooftop Reds
Image by Rooftop Reds
Calling all wine-loving couples: Rooftop Reds is the perfect date for you! Located on 299 Sands Street, Building 275, Brooklyn, Rooftop Reds is the world’s first rooftop vineyard. This vineyard makes around 20-25 cases of wine every year. This is a romantic rooftop date you won’t want to miss this summer.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Image by Yasir Eryilmaz on Unsplash
For a romantic escape into nature in the heart of Brooklyn, plan a date at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden! This 52-acre garden was founded in 1910. The Brooklyn Botanical Garden has over 14,000 taxa of plants. Admission is $18 each for adults and $12 for seniors 65 and up and for students with IDs.
Tokyo Record Bar
Image by Tokyo Record Bar
If you and your significant other are looking for a unique date in the city, you definitely should check out Tokyo Record Bar. Tokyo Record Bar describes itself as “an underground listening room dedicated to quality and obsession through music, food, and booze.” In order to enter this lounge, you need to walk through Air’s Champagne Parlor.
Tokyo Record Bar does two seatings a night, Monday through Saturday. Once seated, guests are given a song list and a drink menu. Tokyo Record Bar has a large variety of genres of music so everyone can find something they like. The song requests are handed to the DJ who then will then make the playlist for the night and sometimes add some more songs of their choice. Guests will also receive a seven-course tasting menu, complete with various traditional Japanese snacks and food. To experience a taste of Japan from New York City, Tokyo Record Bar is the perfect date.
Dreamland Roller Rink
Image by Dreamland Roller Rink
For a summer date that will send you back to the age of disco, visit Dreamland Roller Rink with your significant other! This themed roller skating rink encourages visitors to journey to the past by coming in retro costumes. MCs and DJs will narrate this spectacular night of disco. Dreamland Roller Rink also hosts themed parties, so that each visit is unique. Dreamland Roller Rink is a must-visit this summer for a unique and unforgettable date night.
Jetty Jumpers Jet Ski Tours
Image by Jetty Jumpers
If you and your significant other are looking for some adventurous summer date ideas, you should definitely check out Jetty Jumpers’ jet ski tours. These exciting tours are about three hours long. While jet skiing, you will see some of New York City’s most prominent landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, the Freedom Tower, and more. This is the perfect date for adventurous couples who want a day out on the water.
Color Factory
Image by the Color Factory
The Color Factory is the perfect date for couples looking for a unique experience and a lot of photo opportunities. The Color Factory is an art exhibit that revolves around the beauty and varying palettes of color. Each room is a different experience of color and encourages guests to embrace their imagination and creativity. The Color Factory is an experience unlike any other, the perfect date to escape into air conditioning. In addition, all summer you can visit Eataly Downtown and Color Factory’s collaboration.
Bryant Park Movie Nights
Image from the Bryant Park Corporation Website
Bryant Park movie nights are back this summer, the perfect romantic date under the stars. Admission to these movies, are free. The concession stands open at 5:00 pm and the movie starts at sundown. The movie schedule can be found on the Bryant Park website. If you and your significant other are movie buffs looking for a romantic movie night, be sure to check out Bryant Park movie nights this summer.
If you’ve already been, you want to go back; if you’ve never visited, you’re itching to see it for yourself. New York City is truly a place unlike any other in the United States. Rich in history, culture, and world-famous sites, the Big Apple contains the most diverse population in the entire country and is visited by over 60 million tourists each year. Below we’ll take a look at just a few of the qualities that prove the City that Never Sleeps is one of America’s most desirable destinations.
It’s known as America’s melting pot
New York possesses a special history rooted deeply in immigration. Since the building of Ellis Island’s immigration station in the 19th century all the way up to today, millions of people have found a home in the city, originating from many different places around the world. From Koreatown to Chinatown, Little Italy to Little India, the city offers a unique blend of cuisine from a variety of different cultures and ethnic groups. With over 8 million people speaking more than 800 varying languages, New York is as diverse as it gets.
Exciting entertainment opportunities await at every twist and turn
It’s quite literally impossible to grow bored when living in or visiting the Big Apple. If an event is not currently taking place, it’s being planned, with thousands of opportunities presenting themselves each and every day. Whether it’s seeing a show on Broadway, attending a live jazz concert in Harlem, or playing a round of blackjack at a glamorous casino, New York has your entertainment needs covered. In fact, even for fans of online casino gameplay, New Jersey is conveniently located only a short drive away on the Williamsburg Bridge and is one of four states which offer legal virtual gameplay as well as a variety of no deposit casino offers for their users. It just goes to show that everything you could ever want is in the big city and if it’s not, well, it is probably just a hop, skip, and jump away.
Everything you see exudes character, art, and culture
In New York City, many aspects of life are centered around important American cultural activities. For example, there’s the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and more. Central Park is a cornerstone venue for various outdoor events, and people flock to the Metropolitan Museum of Art to enjoy local and international pieces as well as different exhibits all year round. Architectural beauty can be seen around every corner and some of the city’s most stunning buildings like the Flatiron and Met Life Clock Tower are important structures that have been around for many decades. The bottom line: in New York City, a walk to the grocery store can become a great cultural experience no matter what area you live in.
If you’ve been convinced by the magical qualities of New York City and want more than just a visit, check out some of these helpful tips for apartment hunting in the Concrete Jungle, and fast-track the process to living in your dream locale!
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A symbol of American freedom, the Statue of Liberty is one of the United State’s most famous landmarks
“Think corn and soybean fields as far as the eye can see”
Today, we continue our series with Classic Harbor Line, Female Captains. The newest Captain found her love for sailing right here in New York. How luck can take you places and find a love for a new career when you least expect it!
Meet Captain Diana
DTM: How did you get started in this line of work and where are you from?
Capt Diana: I’m originally from Central Illinois (think corn and soybean fields as far as the eye can see) so working in the maritime industry in NYC was the last thing I thought I would be doing.
DTM: What brought you to CHL?
Capt Diana: I lovingly say that sheer dumb luck brought me to Classic Harbor Line. I moved to New York to attend grad school for Occupational Therapy and my then-boyfriend, now-husband worked for the company and suggested that I interview. That was in 2012 and I haven’t looked back.
Captain Daina CHL
DTM: What type of education or updated education are you given with CHL?
Capt Diana: At a minimum, we conduct and/or attend monthly safety sessions for each of the boats we work on, but as a new crew (who was also new to sailing) I went through some serious on-the-job training in addition to self-study.
DTM: What is your favorite thing about working for CHL in New York?
Capt Diana: One of my favorite things is the sense of community among the crew. I came in knowing virtually nothing and even though it meant more work for the senior deckhands they were all willing to share their time and expertise to facilitate my training. The same was and is true as a captain too.
“I don’t think I will ever forget my first solo trip on each of the boats I captain for CHL”
DTM: Share one of your most memorable/rewarding moments?
Capt Diana: While I’ve had so many wonderful moments in New York Harbor, I don’t think I will ever forget my first solo trip on each of the boats I captain for CHL.
DTM: What is the most common misconception people have about being a Captain of a vessel in New York vs sailing the ocean?
Capt Diana: I haven’t done any ocean sailing so I can’t speak to any of those misconceptions, but I am frequently surprised by the number of people who know that Manhattan is an island but are surprised by our active waterfront and the number of recreational water activities that NYC has to offer.
Capt Diana and Capt Kat CHL
DTM: Do you ever get bored with sailing the same route?
Capt Diana: The route might be the same each time, but between the passengers, traffic, wind, and current each trip is different. Plus, I get a unique view of NYC’s ever-changing skyline.
DTM: What makes a good captain?
Capt Diana: There are so many things that make a good captain, but communication and trust are two that are top of mind.
“Captaining a sail boat and motor yacht both require a similar skillset”
DTM: Is there a difference between being a captain for sailing vessels vs motor yachts?
Capt Diana: Captaining a boat and motor yacht both require a similar skill set; however, our schooners are much more at the mercy of Mother Nature, so we pay a great deal of attention to things like wind speed/direction and the tides. Additionally, the schooners have a lot of moving parts and the captain has direct control over only a small portion of them which is quite different from the yachts and what makes communication so important.
DTM: What’s the last thing you do on your ship before you depart for the day?
Capt Diana: I do one last visual inspection of the boat and dock to be extra sure that everything is safe, stowed, and secure.
DTM: Because we are Downtown Magazine, what is your favorite place in Lower Manhattan Chelsea to the Battery to just get away and relax?
Capt Diana: I could spend hours in Battery Park just watching all the boats go by and catching a sunset over the Statue of Liberty from the land.
DTM: Tips, I’m all about tips for the crew. It’s very important to show your gratitude, they work so hard in such a short time, why is it important to tip?
Capt Diana: The CHL crew works tremendously hard before, during, and after each trip to look after passenger safety and comfort, not to mention proper handling of the boat. The sails don’t go up and the drinks don’t go out without the crew and while they’re doing all of that they also act as lookouts and assist with other tasks for the captain.
DTM: What’s the best advice to give new captains when working with the public?
Capt Diana: I’m still a pretty new captain myself, but for what it’s worth I try to reflect on something that went well and something to work on for next time. Also, it’s okay to be nervous-trust your training.
Captain Diana Christopher Bio:
Captain Diana has been with Classic Harbor Line New York (CHL) since 2012. First as part of the sales team, then as crew, and now as captain. In 2018 she earned her USCG 100 Ton Master with Sail Endorsement. In her eight seasons with CHL, she’s passed by the Statue of Liberty well over 1,000 times. While NYC is home, she’s found a way to work at least one shift in three of CHL’s four locations on all but one of CHL’s 10 vessels (Sloop Eleanor in Newport, RI, would check all the boxes). When she’s not on the water you can find her exploring NY’s city and state parks with her dog and husband.
When you are sailing, the feeling and sounds of the wind, water, and the warm sunshine touching your face somehow force you ever so gently to let go. It’s my one and only place where I can just…be.
To say that sailing is one of our company’s favorite pastimes would be an understatement. We are huge fans of Classic Harbor Line, their captains, and crew.
Over the years we’ve had the great opportunity to meet and get to know the Captains of their fleet. This season we wanted to share our one-on-one interviews with some of CHL female captains
Meet Captain Kat.
Adirondack Classic Harbor Line
DTM: How did you get started in this line of work and where are you from? Capt Kat: I taught sailing on 24- 50 ft boats. I grew up in Seattle and moved to New York after college.
DTM: What brought you to CHL? Capt Kat: Adirondack has been the prettiest boat in the Harbor since 1999. One of my colleagues from teaching sailing was the full-time captain and another colleague got hired as a relief captain and asked me if I wanted to sail Adirondack too. This is back when Adirondack was the only boat CHL (before it was CHL) had in New York.I have been one of Adirondack’s captains since 2006.
DTM: What type of education or updated education are you given with CHL? Capt Kat: We do safety training once a month and have checklists and training for the crew to advance to first mates and captains.
DTM: What is your favorite thing about working for CHL in New York,
share one of your most memorable/rewarding moment? Capt Kat: New York Harbor is a beautiful and challenging place to sail.It is rewarding to feel the boat spring to life with a lovely breeze and see the joy in our guest’s faces as we sail by stunning views of NYC powered only by wind and current (when conditions allow).
DTM: Have you ever raced or sailed the ocean? Capt Kat: Yes. I like sailing places I’ve never been to before and take my vacations sailing in locations all over the world.
Captain Kat and Crew
DTM: Do you ever get bored with sailing the same route? Capt Kat: No. For me, the challenge of being under sail for as much of the trip as possible, the changing current and wind conditions, and having to get to the Statue and back in the allotted time all combine to create essentially a game of chess.It’s different every time.
DTM: What makes a good captain? Capt Kat: An awareness of the overall safety of the vessel, crew, and guests.
DTM: Is there a difference being a captain for sailing vessel vs motor yachts? Capt Kat: Not really, you have the same responsibility for the safety of the vessel and all on board.For me, the sailboat is much more fun because of the challenge of getting the boat to move with only the power of the wind and current.It’s a combination of science and art.
DTM: What’s the last thing you do on your ship before you depart for the day? Capt Kat: At the end of the day, the last thing I do is check the dock lines.
DTM: Because we are Downtown Magazine, what is your favorite place in Lower Manhattan Chelsea to the Battery to just get away and relax? Capt Kat: I love lower Manhattan. My favorite sculpture is the WTC Sphere. I loved it in its original location, bringing humanity to the tall towers.It spoke to my heart standing damaged but still strong in Battery Park. And now in Liberty Park, it still brings tears, but also a path forward.
Captain Kat Adirondack
DTM: Tips, I’m all about tips for the crew its very important to show your gratitude, they work so hard in such a short time, why is it important to tip? Capt Kat: Our crew is amazing. For me to maneuver the boat under sail, the crew must man the sails.We are sailing the boat as a team. They have an awareness of the safe operation of the vessel while also chatting with guests and serving drinks.
DTM: What’s is the best advice to give new captains when working with the public? Capt Kat: If you have joy in your job sailing the boat, chances are the guests will also enjoy sailing.
Captain Kat’s Bio Katrina van Zee, aka Captain Kat, is a captain for Classic Harbor Line, sailing in New York Harbor for over a decade. She holds a United States Coast Guard (USCG) 100-ton Master License with a sailing endorsement and is a U.S. Sailing Certified Instructor at Basic Keelboat, Cruising and Coastal Navigation levels. In the off-season she enjoys sailing in places she’s never been before; favorites include Sea of Hebrides, Baltic Sea, and the Gulf of Thailand.
Classic Harbor Line is the operating company of the Schooners Adirondack & America 2.0 and the Luxury Yachts Manhattan, Manhattan II & Kingston of Chelsea Piers. Operating sightseeing trips on New York waters since 1999, Classic Harbor Line specializes in bringing beautiful, classic-style vessels to the New York City waterways and creating special and memorable excursions.
Our Crew, including all captains, mates, chefs, and on-land representatives at Classic Harbor Line, is what makes the experience on our beautiful yachts truly magical. We have maintained a consistent history of not only operating with professional staff but also with warm and inviting hosts. You will, without a doubt, have fantastic views of the city and find the boats beautiful and comfortable, but what will surprise you and stay with you when you leave is the warm and special treatment you receive from our extraordinary team.
We downtowners are thrilled to see all of our favorite yachting vessels back on the water, after a more than 3-month quarantine.
Manhattan by Sail is ready for you to board!
COVID has effected all businesses, but now its time to get out and support your favorite and also learn about some you did not know.
New York by foot, bike, or scooter is remarkable to see but there is something when seeing it from the historical and beautiful Hudson River.
Wikipedia – The Hudson River is a 315-mile (507 km) river in New York. The river is named after Henry Hudson, an Englishman sailing for the Dutch East India Company, who explored it in 1609, and after whom Canada’s Hudson Bay is also named.
It had previously been observed by Italian explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano sailing for King Francis I of France in 1524, as he became the first European known to have entered the Upper New York Bay, but he considered the river to be an estuary.
The Dutch called the river the North River – with the Delaware River called the South River – and it formed the spine of the Dutch colony of New Netherland. Settlements of the colony clustered around the Hudson and its strategic importance as the gateway to the American interior led to years of competition between the English and the Dutch over control of the river and colony.
During the eighteenth century, the river valley and its inhabitants were the subject and inspiration of Washington Irving, the first internationally acclaimed American author. In the nineteenth century, the area inspired the Hudson River School of landscape painting, an American pastoral style, as well as the concepts of environmentalism and wilderness.
The Hudson was also the eastern outlet for the Erie Canal, which, when completed in 1825, became an important transportation artery for the early-19th-century United States.
Another one of our favorite sailing vessels is coming back this weekend and we are more than ready to give it it’s due!
Manhattan by Sail started in 1972, and has been saying ever since. Check out their story.
Sailing is About Prevailing
At Manhattan by Sail, we’re not only a sightseeing company… we are sailors… who are fortunate enough to sail the prevailing winds of the world’s most iconic harbor. We’ve been taking people sailing in New York Harbor since 1972 when a salty welder named Nick van Nes sailed his 70-ft. yawl, Petrel, to The Battery. He built a dock, put up a sign… and slowly, the first sailboat in New York started to draw attention from locals.
Today, aboard the Shearwater and Clipper City, we share the joy of sailing the most beautiful harbor in the world with visitors and New Yorkers alike. But some things have remained the same since the beginning: our passion, commitment, and our caring, enthusiastic crew who sail each day with their whole hearts. At Manhattan By Sail, we welcome you aboard to share in our joyful culture and to join us in falling in love with NYC, over and over again.
Looking back, there have been challenges: through the early days of a new business, through 9/11, through restorations, growth, and setbacks we worked to preserve the traditional art of sailing and everything that it encompasses: sewing sails, welding, woodworking, navigation, and preserving old boats steeped in history. We have created our own marvelous ecosystem and trained hundreds in the traditional craft of sailing. We know that with grit, teamwork, determination, and resilience anything is possible.
Whether you’re a visitor or a lifelong New Yorker we invite you to see Manhattan through new eyes and feel reinvigorated. Be part of this.
The Mighty Clipper City Tall Ship -158 FOOT L.O.A. GAFF-RIGGED SCHOONER USCG CERTIFIED FOR 149 PASSENGERS
THE EXPERIENCE Have you ever hoisted a sail? Or stood beneath a 12-story mast on a historic boat? Take a deep breath, and get ready for an epic, family-friendly experience. Be part of it. With masts that are 12 stories high, you’ll feel the massive, heroic nature of the boat while enjoying a family-friendly experience. Originally designed for hauling lumber, the Clipper City has a big-ship feel and lifts you high off the water. Six crew members will be hauling on the sails, charging around, and getting you involved. Rather sit back and enjoy? You can do that, too.
THE BOAT
With a length of 158 feet with masts rising 120 feet, she can comfortably sail 149 people, the most of any passenger sailboat in the United States. You will look up and see sails that are bigger than your house. With 12-story masts, we just fit under Brooklyn Bridge by a few meters. This large sailboat has chest-high railings and provides a big, open deck (100 feet x 30 feet) with benches, hatches, and a raised quarter deck where the captain steers. During your journey, we’ll fly 5,000 feet of sail.
THE REFRESHMENTS
Though you may bring your own food, the Clipper City is a nautical adventure with a full-service bar onboard. Bartenders offer reasonably-priced, ice-cold cocktails, local beer on tap, tea, coffee, soda, and pre-made nibbles.
THE LOCATION
Sailing fits easily into your downtown itinerary. Steps from the Charging Bull, 9/11 Memorial, South Street Seaport and the New York Stock Exchange, The Clipper City departs from Slip 2 at the South end of Battery Park in Lower Manhattan, just West of the Staten Island Ferry terminal and Battery Gardens Restaurant. Get Directions.
THE HISTORY
The original Clipper City was built as a lumber schooner just prior to the Civil War. Our Clipper City was rebuilt from the original plans, on loan from the Smithsonian Institution, and recently refurbished.
WHO IS CLIPPER CITY BEST SUITED FOR?
Families and children of all ages. This sailboat permits wheelchairs and strollers on board. For those who wish to leave strollers behind, secure stroller parking is available.
Meet the Shearwater Classic Schooner. 82 FOOT L.O.A. STAYSAIL SCHOONER USCG CERTIFIED FOR 49 PASSENGERS
THE EXPERIENCE Are you game for an intimate, active, yachting experience aboard a stately yacht of yesteryear? Prepare for a refined adventure. You will hear “watch your head, sail coming across” when you partake in this engaged yachting experience. Your crew will deftly carry out your captain’s commands while a server makes the rounds and takes your drink order. The Shearwater was built to heel over; you will feel her smooth agility beneath you as you attune to her movement. During this refreshing, transformative, sense-soothing experience, you may catch some salty-fresh invigoration from spray in the forward quarter, and with enough wind, you’ll be close enough to the water to dip your toes.
THE BOAT
Be whisked back in time to the Roaring ’20s aboard this beautifully restored 1929 sailing ship. The pinnacle of luxury yachts at the time; the Shearwater is a blue water ocean cruiser who has been around the globe. She’s sailed the Pacific, been through the Panama Canal, and won classic yacht races in NY and New Zealand. Like New Yorkers, she’s got character and depth. With a length of 82 feet larger than the Mayflower and a width of 16.5 feet, she’s one of the largest sailboats built in her era yet she provides an intimate experience with yachting feel for up to 49 passengers. Seating is ad-hoc: find a place to sit on a bench, deck-box, or skylight or the owner’s favorite spot, directly on the original Rangoon teak deck. With a spiral staircase and mahogany interior, you’ll be immersed in the Gatsby era and Gilded Age while looking at the modern-day New York City skyline.
THE REFRESHMENTS
Though you may bring your own food, the Shearwater has a server who walks around to bring you reasonably-priced soda, beer, biodynamic and organic Italian wines, and premium mixed drinks (from our on-deck coolers).
THE LOCATION
Sailing fits easily into your downtown itinerary. Shearwater Classic Schooner berths at the North Cove Marina at Brookfield Place (formerly the World Financial Center) in Lower Manhattan walking distance from the 9/11 Memorial, One World Trade, and City Hall. Get Directions.
THE HISTORY
Rich in history, the Shearwater is a national landmark. She’s had books and movies written about her. The last luxury yacht built in her shipyard in Boothbay, Maine before the stock market crash of 1929, she was the pinnacle of Gatsby-era yacht building elegant and adventurous. Read more about the Shearwater Classic Schooner.
WHO IS SHEARWATER BEST SUITED FOR?
The Shearwater is best-suited for adults who seek an active yet refined sailing experience aboard a stately yacht of yesteryear.
Thomas Berton
Tom Berton’s New York sailing odyssey began more than two decades ago when he discovered the joys of plying the harbor’s waters under sail aboard the legendary Petrel and its equally legendary captain, Nick van Nes, who pioneered public and charter sailing in the city. When van Nes packed up and retired to Martha’s Vineyard in 2000, Tom didn’t hesitate long (by his standards anyway). Leaving behind a successful career in real estate, Berton bought the Shearwater in early 2001 and reached out for the Petrel’s baton. The tests to his will and resilience as a new small-business owner came fast and furious: the boat, its crew, and the operation barely survived the horrors of 9/11 despite having set up shop at the foot of the towers. Berton—a member of that rare breed, the born and reared Manhattanite—has, like his city, persevered and prospered since, creating New York’s most unique, personable, and fun harbor-tour business. The proud father of two beautiful young girls, Berton lives with his wife Ewa in lower Manhattan.
Every Spring downtowner’s look at the marina to test the seasons, when we see the boats in Brookfield Marina, we know it’s time to get out for the warmer weather. The winter blues are removed and quickly forgotten.
This year was sad for many as we did not see our local marina buzzing with boats and movement. I can assure you that the minute we saw your sailboat (Tribeca Sailing – Tara) smiles and hope was on everyone’s mind, and it was time to book our Staycation.
Tribeca Sailing
We had the pleasure of catching up with Captain Dave Founder of Tribeca Sailing. Our COO Luigi and I were his guests on Tara, oh yes, she is a beautiful as her name. “one of only five 1964 Hinckley Custom Pilot 35s and is the prettiest sailboat in all of New York City.” Captain Dave
I’ve never been on this size sailboat, at first I was a little concerned but as we left the marina, Captian Dave, handled her like a newborn babe. The sails were up and we were underway.
It was our first sail of the season, and certainly set the standard for others to follow. Captain, is funny, charming, and extremely knowledgeable. He is a true Captain and follows all the rules ensuring his guest’s safety.
No one can know what will come of COVID-19 and or when we will return to “normal life”, one thing is for sure, we live in the greatest city in the world and more so the best area in all of New York. It’s like being on vacation 365 days of the year, we are blessed to have met Tara and Captain Dave.
We give them both 10 out of 10 Sails.
DTM: How difficult was this delay for your business? DC: As a unique small family business and living in downtown Manhattan I spent my time watching our governor and waiting for the curve to flatten. As Spring approached, I would have started working on my sailboat Tara for an April 1st opening but instead, I stayed home and did my part to stay healthy and help our essential workers.
The most difficult part of the delay in opening was a financial hardship. Tourism is a large part of my pre-season bookings and due to COVID 19 travel plans were canceled and I was refunding almost all pre-booked charters. (I changed my policy to give full refunds due to the pandemic.) My business relies on pre-bookings to pay bills. Bookings stop but bills continued.
DTM: Who makes the decision for the marina to open? DC: Marinas were considered essential and access to North Cove Marina was permitted. During the stay- at- home order North Cove was primarily used by NYPD Harbor Patrol and perhaps a transient boater as a leg (stopover) of their cruising journey. They left it up to me to decide when I wished to return.
Tribeca Sailing
DTM: What comments have you heard the most once you were back at the marina.? DC: On May 28 I arrived back to North Cove Marina to my seasonal docking slip. It was a beautiful day and NYers were out on the promenade. As the joggers and dog walkers passed I got lots of thumbs up and comments like “Great to see you back!!!”, “Tara looks fantastic”, “The first boat back gives me hope”, “When will you open I need to get out of my house!”. I was so happy to bring Tara back and the positive energy gave me hope for NYC and for my business.
DTM: You’re the only boat we see now, is there a reason other are not coming back? DC: As Phase, I approached I returned to North Cove Marina to be prepared to start the season. This decision was not easy, as North Cove Marina is a premier marina in such a unique location, and a seasonal business slip is very costly. I am rolling the dice that NYers will take advantage of a staycation and want to go sailing and book a charter with Tribeca Sailing.
The marina is a mix of seasonal tour businesses, personal boat owners, and transients. The tour business charter companies are a close community and we speak frequently. Due to the dockage costs, lack of tourism, and corporate business bookings many of these charter companies are uncertain when they will reopen as they rely on this revenue to pay for their dockage. Transient boaters usually visit the marina to take advantage of NYC in the warm weather along with wonderful restaurants and shopping. This will hopefully be during the next few phases of opening and you can be certain I will be waiting on the dock to welcome them when they arrive.
Tribeca Sailing
DTM: What hours are you open for sail and how do client’s book? DC: Tribeca Sailing sails five times a day, seven days a week at 10 am, 12:30 pm, 3 pm, 6 pm, and 8:15 pm. Longer sails are available on request. The easiest way to book is by clicking the following link and booking on-line.
DTM: What changes should your customers expect and what protective procedures have you put into place if required? The number of people per sail, social distancing, etc? DC: I have been following the local authorities and adjusting accordingly. I have purchased extra masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant spray/wipes.
Three major changes are now in effect:
Private Charters Only. Per Person, booking is no longer available.
Pricing based on; 1-3 guests or 4 to 6 guests
All passengers must arrive wearing masks and all social distancing requirements apply.
Extra masks will be provided if needed.
“Tara” is wiped down with disinfectant before and after each sail and hand sanitizer is available. Every night the boat is cleaned with a CDC recommended disinfectant.
Tribeca Sailing
DTM: What has been the most difficult thing about this situation for you, and your business?
DC: As a small business with limited resources it is challenging to get the word out to the local resident, we are open for business for a perfect staycation. I rely a lot on my Trip Advisor ratings for referrals and I am grateful for repeat local customers but because tourism is limited bookings are soft. We are a hidden secret and it is time to get the word out.
As NYC re-opens, I am hoping to find locals and day visitors starting to venture into NYC to book an intimate sail around the harbor with Tribeca Sailing. Some might hesitate for a bit, but I am optimistic the locals will want to be outside and finally enjoy this beautiful weather on the water. The most frequent statement I hear is: “I never knew this existed in NYC and I can’t wait to tell my friends and family.” I know you are out there……….
DTM: Is there a silver lining for you from this pandemic?
DC: As a downtown resident I have seen the community come together and support the local neighborhood businesses. I think it is important to maintain a community and watch out for each other. The silver lining is knowing NYC will be back as it is still the greatest city in the world and has even a better view from the water. With the lack of ferries sailing in the harbor is a dream to sail with no traffic and no wakes!
Tribeca Sailing
DTM: As we are now hopefully on the downslope of this battle in New York, and discussions have turned to open up our economy, what are your concerns about that and what would you like to see happen, both in society at large and in your regular work environment?
DC: People need to continue to be aware of personal space and their environment. I am proud of how NYC responded to reduce this virus and worked to adhere to the government requirements. Small businesses continue to need support from the community for survival. Please do not ask for a discount, save that question for the larger companies. Go the extra mile and share your experience on social media and refer your friends and family, or just buy a gift certificate. Small acts of kindness will help NYC survive and bounce back as small businesses are its backbone.
DTM: What do you miss most about pre-COVID New York City? DC: As a long time, NYC resident, I miss the energy that the city provides including the tourist that flock to downtown. As a foodie who misses the great restaurant options in NYC, I can not wait to go back to my favorites which I have also listed on my website.
DTM: Tell us how you got into sailing?DC: When I was 16 years old my mom received a phone call from a friend who was looking for crew for a sailboat race and asked if I would be interested. When she asked me about going, I refused to say “Sailing sounds boring”. She made me go anyway and that race changed my life. Falling in love with the sport, I raced sailboats for the next 30 years. I never thought I would turn that passion into a viable business.
DTM: During your time aboard Tara, Captain David will share facts about New York City, stories about personal experiences, and expert sailing techniques. In short, Captain David wants you to have a good time. He’s a United States Coast Guard Licensed, Master. (Anything you want to add)
DC: As a real NYer I like to bring a local personal aspect to my charters. I love telling stories and giving little known tidbits about the sights and not just a canned speech. People are always asking me about restaurant recommendations and I have devoted an entire section on my website to help them by budget, cuisine, and location.
DTM: What do you like to do in your spare time?
DC: Tribeca Sailing season starts April 1st through the end of November. During the off-season, Tara requires maintenance and winterization. This is also the perfect time to work on website updates etc. When not working on the boat I like to take advantage of new restaurants, go to the theater, and visit museums especially when they are holding a special event that I find interesting.
DTM: What do you love about living in Lower Manhattan?
DC: I love that Battery Park City is so beautiful and tranquil also the energy from visitors to the area. Although I am on the water all day, I still love walking along the promenade. Walking by Alexander Hamilton’s grave and through the Oculus makes me smile and reminds me that Lower Manhattan is such a unique and wonderful destination.
DTM: For anyone reading this who may have dreamed of becoming a ship Captain, what’s it like?
DC: Safety is paramount and thinking of that tropical destination is secondary. People always ask me what it would be like to sail long distances, my reply is that it is hard work. For example, you’re on three-hour shifts, sleep is hard as you are always moving, the food is so-so and then the storm comes in the middle of the night. The reality of being a ship Captain vs the dream is quite different. The reward comes when the wind is perfect, the sun is shining, my customers are a joy and laughter abounds. The great news is that this happens most of the time. I am incredibly lucky to have my passion as my way to earn a living.
DTM: Anything you would like to share with our readers we have not asked?
DC: I have had a very, special guest on board. I received an anonymous phone call asking if I was available to sail and was told to show up at 3 pm for a special guest. Next thing I know the Secret Service showed up and soon thereafter the Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau and his wife Sophie came on board Tara. What an amazing sail we had. They sat on the bow (front of the boat) and enjoyed the spectacular sights of NY Harbor. Before they departed, we had a great personal conversation and they were gracious enough to allow a photo op. I had a real connection to them, and the memory will stay with me forever.
Other fun facts about Tribeca Sailing
over 200 successful engagements on board (and I still get teary-eyed when it happens)
location, location, location…always front and center for the Macy’s July 4th fireworks display.
“Tara” is one of only five 1964 Hinckley Custom Pilot 35s and is the prettiest sailboat in all of New York City.
Tara – Tribeca Sailing
Our Tours
Set sail on a private or semi-private tour of New York Harbor perfect for: Birthdays, Anniversaries, Engagements, Private Tours, Corporate Team Building
Location:
North Cove Marina 225 Liberty Street Corner of Liberty St. & South End Ave. Contact: Captain David Caporale Email: david@tribecasailing.com Phone: (917) 593-2281
