Governors Island Tour

Distance: 3-6 miles

Location: Valentino Park, Brooklyn, NY

Venue: New York Harbor

Note: No Rental boats available. Must bring own boat.

Prerequisites: Proficiency and Safety & Rescue Skills.

Putting in at Valentino Park in Red Hook (Brooklyn), we cross Buttermilk Channel south of Governors Island for a grand view of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and lower New York Harbor.

We paddle a counterclockwise circle around Governor's Island and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Battery before ducking in to the landing. On the island, we'll tour historic Fort Jay and Castle Williams and relax for lunch. We launch into the ebb in Buttermilk Channel, where the adventurous can play in a minor tidal race (optional). From here, it's a very short crossing back to Valentino.

This is a fairly short trip, and much of our time will be on land. Even so, we classify it as an intermediate trip because of its location. With a breeze or heavy boat traffic, the waters in New York Harbor can be challenging. We see this trip as a good transition for paddlers whose skills are advancing, and as a great introduction to this wonderful venue.