October is one of my favorite months here in the northeastern USA. The trees are turning glorious colors of gold and red, making for picture-postcard views out my window. While my little slice of waterfront property, the Passaic River, is more conducive to kayaks and small outboard boats, the Hudson River, less than an hour away, attracts lots of different yachts and even megayachts indulging in fall foliage cruises. Since the summer season is over, the waterway is less crowded, making for an even better experience.
That’s one of the reasons I’m passing along word about the foliage cruises offered by Eastern Star. Owners-operators Nick Kutscera and Laurie Smollett Kutscera have been offering their 85-foot yacht for charter out of New York City for the past several years and have enjoyed success, entertaining everyone from celebrities to “regular” couples and groups. Trips have ranged from part day to a full week. I cruised aboard a few years ago out on the eastern end of Long Island for a story for Power & Motoryacht and had a great time.
Eastern Star has a terrific ambiance, with a pot-belly fireplace in the saloon, perfect for those crisp fall days. There’s also lots of wood throughout–which the Kutsceras did themselves, having bought the vessel when she was a fishing boat and transforming her into the private cruiser she is today. As any good charter operation does, they’ll tailor your trip to your taste, suggesting stops at West Point or even the famed Culinary Institute of America.
Eastern Star will remain in New York City for Christmas and New Year’s events, too. Check the Web site for further details.
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