Great tours in Tivoli Bays..

During a recent trip to Tivoli Bays guests navigate past large rocks.

One of our favorite places to take our guests is Tivoli Bays. We get to explore the winding marsh area before traveling under the railroad bridge into the Hudson River. Just before the bridge the bay opens up and gives an amazing view of the Catskill Mountains. It’s quite breathtaking.

Once out into the river we work our way around the two islands, Cruger and Magdalen. Usually we are treated to the sights of Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons and White Egrets.

Some where along the line we find a nice place to beach our kayaks and enjoy lunch. And maybe get a swim in too.

The Catskill Mountains backdrop the bay.

After a healthy lunch we work our way along the islands and the railroad tracks back toward the marsh. Right now the Cardinal flowers are in full vivid bloom.

It you haven’t got out to enjoy the bay yet, contact us. We would be happy to share the beauty with you.

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Dragonfly..

A dragonfly hangs onto the rigging of my kayak.

Sorry that it has been a while since the last post. We have been cranking this summer and I have to admit, if it is a choice between blogging or paddling, well you get the idea.

It has been a great summer, perfect weather, warm water and lots of sun.  I for one am not ready to say it is over yet. It is true that the days are indeed getting shorter, but I am holding on like the dragonfly above is holding on to my boat. We are hoping to paddle well into October, so don’t give up yet.

See you on the water!

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Showers please..

The Esopus Meadows lighthouse during a light rain shower on the Hudson River.

Showers in the forecast? No worries, as long as thunderstorms are not predicted.

I have to say, there is no more peaceful paddling on the Hudson River then when it is raining. The gentle burbling of the raindrops hitting the water, cooling you off in the summer heat. It also seems to have a calming effect on the wildlife, which allows you to get a little closer for photographs.

Speaking of photos, the light during a rain gives dramatic effects to photographs. The soft light saturates colors and enhances mood. The shot above of the Esopus Meadows lighthouse is a great example of photography in the rain.

So don’t put off that paddle if there is rain predicted, enjoy it.

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We are having WAY too much fun..

Kayaking the Hudson River near Kingston Point.

Ok, there is no doubt about it. Summer is here, and we are out on the water having fun! We have taken guests out all weekend, from Kingston Point, Rhinecliff and Tivoli Bays, even North Lake, we’re on the water and loving it.

Bald eagles enjoying a meal near the Rondout Creek.

We have seen bald eagles, otters, beaver, and tons of other cool things. Fish jumping, lightning bugs hatching and yes even fireworks.

So what did you do over the holiday weekend? Did you go out? Think about going out? What’s the hold up? Come out with us and enjoy the water.

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Watch the fireworks from Rhinecliff..

Are you looking for a wonderful riverfront town to watch fireworks from? Well, you are in luck. There is  no better place to get a jump on the Independence Day celebration than watching the Kingston fireworks from the Rhinecliff Dock.

Once again the Rhinecliff Waterfront Committee is pleased to announce the opportunity to enjoy live music prior to the Kingston fireworks at the waterfront park on Sunday, June, 27th. The local pop band, U-Guys, will perform tunes from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. A DJ will fill out the evening
with entertainment. Bring a lawn chair, a blanket or a boat. The event is FREE and it’s going to be a blast.

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A great way to cool down..

Piles of driftwood line the eastern shore of the Hudson River.

After a hot day in the office, mowing the lawn, or whatever has you heated up, there is no better way to cool off than taking an evening paddle on the Hudson River. There is cool breeze that comes off the water that is refeshing after the hot humid winds from earlier in the day. You can dip your arms in the water, even take a swim if you like. Mmm, it’s so soothing.

There is always so much to see. Last night just as the sun set below the Catskill Mountains, I was sitting in a small cove when I spied an otter playing in the water. At first I thought it was a large eel, but sure enough the curious animal turned out to be an otter. What a treat.

A couple of things to keep in mind when going out in the evening: Be particularly aware of the motor boat traffic; make sure you bring a white stern light in case you get caught out after dark; stay close to shore where powerboats can’t go after the sun goes down, you’re much safer there. Oh, and always, have fun!

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Clearwater Festival..

Support one of the organizations the protects our Hudson River.

Come out on June 19-20 and listen to great music at Clearwater’s Great Hudson River Revival.

These folks put a lot of time and effort in to educate, protect and care for the Hudson. What a great way to show them a little love.

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