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Sail around the abandoned islands of New York City as you search for nesting herons with an urban naturalist guide!
Though occupied by human activity for over 100 years, the abandoned North and South Brother Islands of New York City’s East River have since been taken over by nature. North Brother Island was once the site of a 19th-century quarantine hospital where Typhoid Mary (Mary Mallon) spent 23 years, a World War II veteran’s hospital, and a short-lived drug rehabilitation facility. South Brother Island was privately owned. Today, both islands are part of the Harbor Herons Region, a complex of uninhabited islands and marshes protected for the use of shorebirds.
On a new motor yacht tour with Classic Harbor Line, guests can sail around this nature preserve for a glimpse of nesting Black Crowned Night Herons, beautiful sunset views, and decaying structures that peak through the overgrown greenery.
Abandoned Islands of the East River Sunset Cruise
This new sail will take curious adventurers and bird watchers to the upper reaches of the East River during peak nesting time for Egrets and Herons. Urban naturalist expert Gabriel Willow, a local environmental educator and ecological tour guide, provides live narration for the 3-hour excursion. Willow will point out remnants of the former quarantine hospital and other dilapidated structures on the islands, share the legacy of former Yankees owner Jacob Ruppert and his ill-fated summer home that met a fiery demise along with other fascinating historical tales, and provide insight into the lives of wildlife creatures that inhabit the islands.
Tours depart from Chelsea Pier 62, go around the southern tip of Manhattan, and travel north up the East River. As you cruise through New York Harbor and up the river, you’ll see classic sights like the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge. You’ll also learn about other New York City islands like Belmont Island, Roosevelt Island, and Mill Rock. After the sun has set, your journey back will be illuminated by the shimmering Manhattan skyline.
On board, seating is assigned at elegant tables with large viewing windows. You can relax inside the cabin or catch the breeze out on the open deck. One complimentary beer, wine, Champagne, or soft drink and a gourmet sandwich are included with your ticket. Additional beverages and ‘small plates’ are available for purchase from the bar menu.
Grab your tickets for this limited-run experience now! The tour runs on June 9, 16, 23, and 30, July 7, 14, and 21.
Abandoned Islands of the East River Sunset Cruise
Next, check out 10 Forever Wild Nature Preserves in NYC
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