Being a native New Yorker and current resident of New Jersey, I’m admittedly a bit biased in favor of the region. But I’ll never forget the first time I cruised around Manhattan aboard a private boat, after more than a decade of working in the midst of its concrete jungle. Seeing the skyscrapers and the skyline from the water is, well, magical. Plus, there’s no way I’d have been able to get a close-up shot of Lady Liberty like the one above. The tourist boats are simply too packed, so another person’s head or hands would have been in my way.
Heading out toward Long Island, up the Hudson River (especially this time of year, to see the foliage), or down the Jersey Shore is equally a wonderful and even peaceful experience. It takes you away from the hustle and bustle on land and gives you a new appreciation for the sights. Which is why I was pleased to learn that Island Global Yachting (IGY) is now operating the Newport Yacht Club & Marina (below) on New York Harbor.
The megayacht marinas in Manhattan – Surfside 3 at Chelsea Piers and North Cove Marina at the World Financial Center – get most of the attention in this area. But Newport Yacht Club & Marina, right across from World Fi in Jersey City, New Jersey, is equally capable of handling superyachts, to 200 feet. Twelve slips are reserved solely for them, in fact, out of 154 total berths. The marina offers the amenities you’d expect to find, like power, water, cable TV, and phone hookups at the dock; shower and laundry facilities; and 24-hour security. The on-site helipad and PATH train (subway) mean owners, guests, and crew have convenient ways of heading over to New York City quickly – 10 to 15 minutes on average via PATH – for a Broadway show or other diversions. Giants Stadium is even closer by car. If anyone needs to head to the airport, Newark Liberty International Airport is about 15 minutes away via car, though the marina’s on-site helipad makes quick work of the trip. JFK and LaGuardia airports are also within easy reach, by car or helicopter.
Of course, Newport Yacht Club & Marina offers several good reasons to stay on site. Newport Centre Mall, containing a 12-screen movie theater and about 200 shops (including four department stores), is right there, as are a handful of restaurants, some with outdoor seating. Two hotels, waterfront walkways and parks, and a swim and fitness center round out the highlights.
For reservations or more information, call (201) 626-5550 or visit the Web site.
Leave a Reply