New York & Long Island Sound

New York Harbor is home to the iconic Manhattan skyline. A sail from there along the East River takes you to Long Island Sound, a large and relatively sheltered body of sea bordered by New York’s Long Island to the south and the Connecticut coastline to the north.

Combined, these areas offer exposed Atlantic coasts, tidal estuaries, and busy urban waterways. Shoreside culture ranges from the dense metropolitan New York City area to smaller coastal towns and historic river ports along the Hudson River and harbors of Long Island Sound.

Cruising yachts can stop at the Liberty Island Anchorage, a designated anchorage at the foot of the Statue of Liberty, with the Manhattan skyscrapers forming a dramatic backdrop.

North along the Hudson River at Poughkeepsie, the Walkway Over The Hudson is a former railway bridge, now a state historic park and pedestrian walkway with elevated views of the river and surrounding valley.

Off Long Island Sound in Connecticut, a short passage up the Thames River leads to the Submarine Force Library And Museum, which presents the history of the U.S. submarine force and includes historic submarines, naval exhibits, and archival material. Further east in Mystic, Connecticut, the Mystic Seaport Museum exhibits historic vessels and information about New England’s seafaring history.

Marine traffic is heavy near New York Harbor and major river mouths, with commercial, ferry, fishing, and recreational vessels all present. Strong tidal currents can be encountered in Long Island Sound especially through narrow passages, so plan transits of areas such as Hell Gate to coincide with slack water.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Oyster Bay ★ 5.0 The anchorage at Oyster Bay features good holding in depths from 7 to 19 feet, with reports of sheltered conditions similar to a lake. Visitors appreciated the quiet atmosphere after 6 p.m. and nearby dining options within walking distance.
	Coast Guard Academy anchorage ★ 5.0 Anchorages near the Coast Guard Academy provide calm conditions away from heavy traffic. Notable features include reliable holding, minimal wakes, and manageable currents. Several visitors suggest anchoring north of marked moorings for optimal positioning.
	Lake Montauk ★ 5.0 The anchorage offers good holding, with multiple visitors mentioning calm conditions and sufficient water depth. Beach access is straightforward, making it suitable for landing dinghies. Anchorage space appears to be ample, but care is needed with navigation markers.
	Liberty Island, Anchorage 20B ★ 5.0 The anchorage offers remarkable views including the Statue of Liberty. Visitors report excellent holding in mud and manageable depths. It is often rolly during the day, with traffic disrupting comfort, but tends to calm at night.
	Liberty Island- Side Anchorage ★ 4.8 Engaging anchorage with breathtaking views, particularly at sunset. Conditions include some rolly waves during the day, calming in the evening. Holding is described as good in depths around 4-5 meters and offers a unique experience despite busy surroundings.
	Port Washington ★ 4.7 A spacious anchorage with excellent holding and convenient access to nearby shops and train services to Manhattan. Multiple dinghy docks and good depth enhance the experience. Visitors have noted some discomfort during rough weather when using the dinghy.
	New Haven South ★ 4.7 The anchorage offers good holding and is situated in a quiet area, providing shelter from rough seas. Several visitors experienced calm conditions during windy weather. However, accessing the shore might be challenging.
	Port Jefferson Harbor ★ 4.6 A spacious anchorage with reliable holding in mud. Protection from south winds is adequate, though some wave action can occur. After dusk, the area becomes notably quieter.
	Liberty Island ★ 4.6 Incredible views are frequently highlighted by visitors. Wakes and noise from nearby traffic, including helicopters and boats, are common concerns. The anchorage offers a free area for boats with good holding, although a dinghy dock is limited.
	Atlantic Highlands Anchorage ★ 4.5 Wind protection is generally good at Atlantic Highlands Anchorage, with several visitors reporting their anchors holding well during storms. The area is conveniently located near town amenities and offers access to a dinghy dock. However, wakes from local traffic can be a nuisance.

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Marinas

	Mystic Seaport Museum ★ 5.0 Staying at the marina within Mystic Seaport Museum allows guests to explore the historical exhibits. Visitors appreciate the inclusive admission and various on-site amenities like free laundry and excellent showers. Dockhands provide helpful service, often accommodating guest needs.
	Dyckman Marina ★ 4.7 Affordability is a highlight at this marina, with rates set at $40 per night. Its proximity to the subway enables convenient access to Manhattan, while onsite amenities include a 24/7 attendant and washer/dryer services, though machines may be dated. Guests appreciate the friendly personnel and neighborhood's vibrant community.
	Hudson Point Marina ★ 4.6 The marina features a quiet and well-protected environment with friendly staff. Visitors noted spacious and clean shower facilities. It is conveniently located near transit to Manhattan, and various shopping options are within walking distance.
No image	Shadows Marina ★ 4.0 Dockmaster Keith receives praise for his service and responsiveness. Docks are reported to be in good condition, providing electricity and potable water. Visitors mention adverse conditions due to boat traffic, particularly during the day and at night.

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Moorings

	Sheepshead Bay Yacht Club ★ 5.0 Friendly service is highlighted across reviews. The yacht club features welcoming staff, a pool, and a bar. Additional amenities include a launch service and nearby access to shops and the subway, making it convenient for visitors.
	Port Washington ★ 4.8 Mooring is available for $35 per night, which includes a water taxi service. Many visitors appreciate the excellent protection of the anchorage and the convenience of nearby shopping and transport options. Staff are noted for being friendly and helpful.
	Dyckman Marina Mooring Field ★ 4.5 Mooring balls cost 40 USD per night with basic amenities nearby. Strong currents may affect smaller boats' anchoring, but access to the subway is convenient. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
No image	Pequonnock Yacht Club ★ 4.3 Mooring balls are available with identifiable green flags. Staff are part-time but friendly and efficient upon check-in, though phone responses may be delayed. Clean restrooms and a nearby dinghy dock enhance the experience.

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Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Chandlers

	Sag Harbor Ship Store ★ 5.0 The store stocks Volvo products and features a helpful staff member. This small shop serves the needs of visitors effectively. Customers have found the assistance to be friendly and supportive during their visit.
	West Marine ★ 4.0 Stocking a basic range of items, this store may not have extensive sailing hardware. While some visitors find it necessary to order online for specific needs, there is a convenient option to order online and pick up in the store.
	Mystic Nautical Marine Consignment ★ 4.0 An organized consignment store for boating supplies exists, featuring a variety of small boat parts at reasonable prices. Visitors can explore bins filled with various items, including fishing equipment. The experience is enhanced by the opportunity to discover unique finds.
	Three Mile Harbour Marina Chandlery ★ 4.0 Three Mile Harbour Marina Chandlery has a decent stock of supplies. Prices may be higher compared to other places. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.

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Useful yacht clearance links:

There are currently too few reports on yacht clearance for this part of United States of America. If you clear in here, please add any missing clearance markers and a short review to help others.