Most people think heading DTS or to the lake upstate is the only way to get some water time into their lives, but that couldn’t be further from the truth, especially on Hudson County’s Gold Coast. We live in an area flanked by water {sometimes to our detriment #helloflooding}, but unless you’re rolling in some extra cash, you’re probably not boating on the reg. We’re about to change that — enter Hudson Cat, a local private charter service that sails out of the Liberty Harbor Marina, owned by a local Hoboken resident and boat captain. Here’s all about Hudson Cat and its owner, Captain Mike — as well as a peek inside some of our team’s sailing trip around the Hudson.
**Disclaimer: Our team took this boat cruise prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are interested in doing this but nervous about doing it during these times, you may want to reach out to the company with any questions you have before booking your event.
About Captain Mike
Living in Hoboken for the last 14 years and having over 48 years of sailing experience, Michael Jasmine {aka Captain Mike} left his career in finance to pursue his dreams and passion for sailing boats. He had learned to sail at City Island in New York — and grew up sailing on the Long Island Sound. It was only a matter of time before he gave up his nine to five for his true passion {47 years of time, to be exact}. But sailing private charters isn’t his only nautical focus — he’s also a United States Coast Guard 50 Ton Master License. He’s the former Commodore of the Hoboken Sailing Club and winner of the 2017 New York Harbor Regatta.
“I have sailed extensively in the Hudson River, New York Harbor, Long Island Sound, San Francisco Bay, Atlantic + Pacific Oceans, and the Caribbean Sea,” he shared with us, when asked about his comfort levels sailing in the area. Touché.
See More: NYC Cycleboats Launching Out of Jersey City Starting This Summer
About Hudson Cat Cruises
Currently, Hudson Cat offers two hour Statue of Liberty cruises daily, and a Sunset cruise at 6:00PM.
“We also offer customized cruises for any length of time and book a lot of birthday parties, anniversaries, bachelorette parties and proposals,” says Captain Mike. They also have an optional onboard photographer that is an add-on, if desired.
The one drawback to Hudson Cat is that due to regulations, they can only accommodate up to six passengers at a time. But don’t get it twisted — it’s quite the experience and worth every penny {it’s $600 to be exact — so essentially $100 per person if you have a total of six}.
Trips depart daily from the conveniently located Liberty Harbor Marina in Jersey City or Hudson Cat can pick your party up at the North Cove Marina in the NYC Financial District or the Pier 25 Marina in Tribeca. Sounds like a perfect post-work happy hour, NBD.
Hudson Cat offers exclusive Private Catamaran Charters for up to six passengers on the Hudson River, New York Harbor, and East River — and chances are if the weather’s good, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the New York City Skyline.
The Experience
^Where we met Captia
Some of our team + friends went out on the Hudson Cat last summer, and it was spectacular. Possibly the best night of our lives {barely an exaggeration} and a peak Hudson County experience, that’s for sure.
We met Captain Mike around 6:00PM right by Surf City in Jersey City and then headed to his 37-foot yacht {spoiler: It’s a BEAUTIFUL boat}. Since it is BYOB + F {booze and food}, we brought bottles on bottles of rosé, some snacks, and enjoyed quite the ride.
“Guests can feel free to bring anything they would like to eat or drink. They should also bring sunglasses and sunscreen in the summer and a jacket in the spring and fall,” Captain Mike explained.
The Highlights
A few of the highlights of the charter included the Empire State Building, Freedom Tower, Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, and the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges.
We even flanked the Frying Pan and waved to people on the other side of the water — all with insane views of Hoboken and Jersey City.
Read More: Morning Getaway: The Hudson River Walkway
Here are a few of our fave pics from the night — as you can tell, the sunset was INSANE. PS: @eastviewphotog was on-board capturing pics of our group which was a nice touch as well.
About the Boat
The Gemini Freestyle 37 Catamaran is a completely new concept in boat design. The luxury yacht is ideal for cruising and relaxation featuring an open cockpit with a wraparound couch, outdoor galley, forward seating area and Bluetooth stereo system. And our team can attest — it was quite luxe!
How To Book
If you’re ready to book, you can do so online at HudsonCat.com. Interested parties can also call 201-492-5299 or email Mike at CaptainJazz@HudsonCat.com.
Have you taken a ride around the Hudson River with Hudson Cat yet? Let us know in the comments below!
