Join us aboard one of our cozy, elegant, 1920s-style Manhattan yacht — as we travel past abandoned islands rich with history and modern day wildlife!
Embark on a journey of discovery aboard our classic yacht, as we navigate the scenic New York Harbor waterways from Chelsea Piers to the hidden gems of Belmont Island, Roosevelt Island, Mill Rock, and North and South Brother Islands. Join us for a captivating 3-hour cruise through the heart of our city, where history and nature converge in breathtaking harmony.
As we set sail, prepare to be enchanted by the picturesque skyline of Manhattan, the bustling waterway of the East River, north to the start of the Long Island Sound. Our expert guide and renowned Urban Naturalists, Gabriel Willow or Russell Jacobs, will regale you with fascinating tales of these iconic islands, steeped in history and teeming with wildlife.
North Brother and South Brother Islands, nestled in the East River, are not just picturesque landscapes but vital nesting habitat for a myriad of bird species. In fact, they are a nationally recognized haven for colonial water birds, gulls, herons, cormorants, and egrets. Witness the majesty of these magnificent creatures as they gather on the islands for nesting and rearing their young, with the New York City skyline as a backdrop.
Explore the rich history of North Brother Island, once home to a quarantine hospital for contagious diseases and infamous as the final resting place of Typhoid Mary. See the remnants of the hospital and other dilapidated structures, shrouded in mystery and intrigue.
On South Brother Island, discover the legacy of Jacob Ruppert, former owner of the Yankees, and his ill-fated summer home that met a fiery demise in 1909. We will linger at dusk to marvel at the untouched beauty of this uninhabited island, now under the stewardship of the NYC Parks Dept., as herons and egrets wing their way back from their feeding grounds to feed their young and roost for the night.
Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable naturalist-guide will share insights into the conservation efforts aimed at preserving these precious ecosystems. Learn about the ongoing research conducted by organizations such as the NYC Bird Alliance and Parks’ Natural Resources Group, as they strive to protect and nurture the diverse wildlife that call these islands home.
