View New York Harbor As A Sailor

By: Valarie D'Elia

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Those who yearn to be sailors can learn how to sail and kayak in and around New York Harbor. NY1's Travel reporter Valarie D'Elia filed the following report.

There are plenty of ways to spend a passive day on New York Harbor but there are also a few options for a hands-on hold of the waterfront.

Learning to sail on the Hudson River poses its own unique challenges, such as dodging a Circle Line Ferry or a massive cruise liner bearing down on the watery corridor. Heaven knows, perhaps another Airbus 320 might even "sully" things up.

While learning to tack in this environment can be taxing, one can earn sea legs in a New York minute. Technically, the shortest class available given by the Offshore Sailing School lasts two hours, but the most popular option is the three day "Learn to Sail" course, with rates starting at $795 per person midweek.

Up to four kids from seven to 17 years old can learn for free when sailing with two adults who are paying the weekend rate of $895 each. For more information, visit www.offshoresailing.com.

Another way to get a hands-on experience on New York Harbor is through a complimentary kayaking program offered in the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. They "put-in" at Canarsie Pier, within view of planes landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

The public is invited to try out kayaks for free from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays through Mondays, from July 10 through the end of August. A quick lesson is followed by a half-hour on the water in a protected area.

To get there, take the L train and transfer to the B42 bus, or take by the Belt Parkway to Exit 13. For more information, visit www.nyharborparks.org.

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Now here's a D'Elia's Deal you don't want to miss on September 13. The first New York Harbor Day will offer free bike rentals and water taxi rides, linking six Waterfront Parks on the Harbor.

For more travel information, visit www.travelwithval.com.

As is common practice in the travel industry, Travel With Val often receives complimentary travel or reduced "media" rates at hotels, resorts and attractions, including those that may be featured in these reports. Such consideration is not taken in exchange for any express or implied promise or understanding of any nature, particularly regarding the content of these reports. These reports only feature travel providers personally recommended by Valarie D’Elia in the exercise of her independent editorial judgment, and do not represent the endorsement of Time Warner Cable or any third party.