One last trip on the boat is always saved for a river cruise to experience the changing of the seasons – the fall colorscape – no matter how chilly or windy or the crisp air. The Fall feel onboard is just the greatest post summer pleasure. When we bundle up, grab some lunch and take a quick trip up the Hudson to admire the last leaves of Fall in their gorgeous splendor, it feels like a vacation – a mini one, that is very big on effect.
Along with so many of NY’s most dramatic natural wonders, is the stunning Hudson Valley. It’s a trip to experience a gorgeous glide through the Hudson Valley, and to be able to take in the wonderment of the rolling hills of brilliant fall colors by boat. The beauty of autumnal nature, lining the shores at the the NY and NJ sides of the river – its so pretty, so peaceful and to also pass by iconic landmarks such as the George Washington Bridge, the Cloisters, the Palisades, the Little Red Light House and the sharp, long Tappan Zee Bridge (currently under major construction) without any traffic, little distraction and some great food and beautiful company is utter delight.
The currents are, naturally stronger and there are many more bumps and grinds going on under the hull, SRO, is often the case, but getting away from the bustle on land, even for a few hours is worth it, as it is downright thrilling. Fall whitewater provides a faster ride past cliffs and waterfalls. Through quiet waters, the further north you go, there are also countless species of birds, fish and plant life – not expected, at all, but very present on one recent trip along the mighty Hudson.
On one pretty, sunny, late September day, wearing a lot more clothing and with full thermos’s of coffee, we were lucky to catch the marvel and were able see a plethora of magnificent Fall color change in leaves of average brilliance. Colors of cranberry, buttercup, mustard, salmon, pumpkin, and copper, full trees, bursting with an abundance of life, were able to be seen very clearly at a distance, on the water on the cusp of land on the Hudson River.
The foliage was in full splendor.
There are so many ways to experience the fun by boat. The Seastreak plans perfect boat rides and the prices are not nearly as high, as the feeling that arises when you step off land, onto a boat and cruise your way through a visual masterpiece. It will prove to be a picture perfect day.
Photographs by C.Greene & MDO
