June 16                          Kingston, New York

We departed Liberty Landing Marina shortly after eight o’clock on a glorious sunny morning.  It was exciting to pass under the George Washington Bridge and leave the city behind.  We felt our long-awaited journey had actually begun.  Passing beneath the bridge, we saw the famous "Little Red Lighthouse, " subject of a popular children's book and a river icon.  The Palisades across from Manhattan remain unspoiled due to the vision and generosity of John D. Rockefeller, Jr. who wanted a beautiful view from The Cloisters located in Fort Tryon Park at the northern end of Manhattan.  After Yonkers,  the Hudson River is bordered by small villages which open up to large cities hidden in the dense trees.  We saw little commercial traffic. The wind was minimal and the river was smooth despite the considerable current.

 The ruins of Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island came into view as we came around a bend in the river.
Built by Frank Bannerman, an enterprising merchant who bought all the weapons, uniforms, etc. left from the Civil War and began an early Army-Navy business that continued to prosper for many years.  He added to his supplies from the Spanish-American War.  At one time, he was outfitting some European armies.  Bannerman Castle was his summer home, later a state park, and, after a disastrous fire, is now a neglected ruin.

West Point was much more impressive from our river view than when we saw it years ago from the road.  A massive fortress-like structure that covers a huge area, West Point looks like a building from the medieval era.  It is a great example of architecture that exemplifies power and military might.

As we advanced up the river, we were met with considerable debris.  Dave was at the helm most of the day and skillfully dodged the tree trunks and branches that floated toward us.  Confident and capable, Dave enjoys steering the boat, handling the lines, and navigating.  We love having him with us.  He is great company and a lot of help.

After an eight hour cruise, we docked at the Kingston City Marina.  The small town area adjacent to the dock area was bedecked with hanging baskets, beds of flowering plants, and statuary honoring those lost at sea. We dined at Ship and Shore, a recommended casual restaurant with excellent food.  David and I enjoyed an unusual arugula salad with striped beets and dined on steamed  clams.  Dave had a crusted sea bass that met his strict criteria for seafood freshness.  We toasted the end of a great day on the water.