Macy's fireworks -- best place to watch from water?

theredboat · #1 (**permalink**) 07-01-2011

Anyone know the best place to see Macy's fireworks in NYC on the Hudson? By sailboat, of course

WanderingStar · #2 (**permalink**) 07-02-2011

I don't. But plan to be there early, many areas will be closed to traffic before the fireworks start.

Tempest · #3 (**permalink**) 07-02-2011

Check the Local Notice to Mariners for the Times and locations of

restrictions.Local Notice to Mariners

There's a special section with a Map.

You must be in the viewing area no later than 8:00 pm and in position no later than 8:30 pm ( fireworks begin at 9:20)
I read it quickly, but it looked like you must hold your position without anchoring. Tricky, given the currents. You can't leave the area until released by the CG.

If you go, I'd be interested to hear how you make out..I've always stayed clear...too many vessels for my comfort level.

I wonder if you could get a decent view up river from the southern end of the Bay Ridge Flats.

paulk · #4 (**permalink**) 07-03-2011

We anchored off the Statue of Liberty one year. The view was fantastic because you could see the different barge displays all going off at the same time, from the Verazzano bridge, Liberty Island (of course),up the Hudson AND up the East River. The reflections in the water and off of the skycraper widndows, along with the waves of sound and color washing over the skyline was unbelievable. We had issues with the current twisting us around at the change of tide and wrapping our anchor rode around the keel, but a USCG R.I.B. nudged us free. (Thanks, guys!) The traffic of small runabouts and jetskis can be scary, but if you wait for them to clear off, there's generally plenty of space for everybody.

Minnewaska · #5 (**permalink**) 07-04-2011

It has been 20 years since I did that. I'm pretty sure the show has moved, but it's been too long to recall specifics anyway. I guess it was a life experience, but I wouldn't dream of it again. Be sure to have enough hands (sober hands) to fend off other boats all night long, in the dark.

Tempest · #6 (**permalink**) 07-04-2011

The barges will be lined up on the Hudson from chelsea piers ( around 15th st. ) up to 66th street.