Sept 9, 2009 - Ft Jefferson, NY to NYC with John and Vivian

While we were leaving our marina in Ft Jefferson, Captain Robert noticed a sizeable fish boil in the water right ahead of Grand Fromage. Our friend, John Peterson was handling the lines. He used the radio earphones we use while docking, to suggest Captain Robert cut the engine and drift through the boil. John immediately cast a fishing line into the boil and 10 seconds later had caught a blue fish. John immediately cleaned and filleted the blue fish. Anticipating a very yummy fish barbeque when we arrived at our slip in Jersey City, we bagged up the fish with marinade.

We enjoyed a scenic ride up Long Island Sound, passing some huge houses on the east shore.

Scenic lighthouses

Still in Long Island Sound, the East River begins after crossing the bridge ahead. We had our first exciting view of New York City. Over the radio, we learned that the East River would be closed at the Manhattan Bridge between 12 and 1. We were certain that we would be able to make the closing, at our current rate of speed.

As Law and Order fans, it was fun to cruise by Riker's Island

Cruising up the East River

The Chrysler Building

The United Nations Building

The Empire State Building

As we cruised up the East River, we began to see more helicopters in the air, plus Coast Guard and military vessels in the river. We learned that the East River would be closed due to President Obama visiting the United Nations Building.

We were nearing the end of the East River, with two bridges to go. We could see the Statue of Liberty on the other side of the Hudson from the Broklyn Bridge. We were becoming increasingly confident we would be able to clear the two bridges before the closing. We greatly anticipated tying up to our slip at Liberty Landing Marina in Jersey City. With boat chores complete, we'd be able to kick back, prepare and enjoy our blue fish for lunch.

Luck was not on our side. As we prepared to cross under the Manhattan Bridge, Coast Guard vessels commanded us to halt and hold our position.

After treading water for an hour, the Coast Guard released us to continue our voyage under the Manhattan Bridge and finally, under the Brooklyn Bridge.

I am happy to report that our blue fish barbeque lunch was worth the wait.