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Pride Of The Hudson – Narrated Tours Of The Hudson River

Pride Of The Hudson offers cruses through the majestic Hudson Highlands aboard the luxurious Pride of the Hudson on the Hudson River. The adventure begins at Blu Pointe in Newburgh, NY, and the captain narrates the sights along the way.

You can bask in the open air on the spacious sundeck or enjoy the comfort of the climate-controlled main salon, featuring huge wrap-around windows. The friendly and professional crew responded to all of your needs, ensuring a memorable and relaxing experience.

Hudson River Adventures specializes in Sightseeing Cruises, Weddings and Private Charters

• Elegance for all affairs
• 2 Hour narrated sightseeing cruises
• Customized cruises for Schools and Camps
• Two Cash Bars-light Snacks
• Air-conditioned and Heated
• From our ship see: Bannerman’s Island, Cold Spring, Storm King Mountain, Breakneck Mountain, and West Point
• Cruises from May 1st – October 31st
• Coast Guard Inspected

Your adventure will begin at Pride’s Landing in Newburgh, NY, and your captain will narrate the sights along the way, including:

• Washington’s Headquarters  – established as a historic site in 1850 because George Washington spent so much time here during the Revolutionary War!
• Mount Beacon  – the highest point between the Catskills and the Atlantic Ocean. Beacon fires were built here during the Revolutionary War.
• Bannerman Island – this historic Island is known for its warehouse, which was built to resemble a Scottish castle.
• Breakneck Mountain – legend states that the mountain was named after a farmer’s bull that fell down a cliff and broke its neck. A granite quarry at its base supplied material for the Brooklyn Bridge towers, the Statue of Liberty base, and sidewalks in New York City.
• Cold Spring  – a quaint town known for its restaurants and antiques.
• World’s End – the deepest point of the Hudson River. Explorers believed that the river stopped there but eventually realized that after the sharp “S” bend, it continued
• Constitution Island —During the Revolutionary War, chains were run from here to West Point to prevent British ships from sailing up the river.
• West Point—The United States Military Academy at West Point boasts beautiful historic buildings, including Eisenhower Hall, the chapel, the field house, and  more.

A cruise through the majestic Hudson Highlands aboard the Pride of the Hudson is a unique way to celebrate any occasion . Our friendly, accommodating, and professional crew will respond to all our needs.

Posted by Pride of the Hudson on Thursday, June 27, 2019

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Yonkers St. Johns Farmers Market, Thursdays, 7am-4pm

Yonkers Waterfront Live- Von NewMann

Hastings-on-Hudson Farmers Market – Saturdays, 8:30-1:00

Hudson river cruises.

The wonders of the mighty Hudson River come into sharper focus when you cruise and enjoy its timeless beauty. Opportunities for enjoying this spectacular American treasure are being offered on cruises to and from the Historic Hudson River Towns. For schedule and ticket information, please contact the cruise operators below.

Whether you are interested in art, wine tasting, seeing the sunset or having a private party the "Evening Star" will take you through the Hudson Highlands to do so. The boat departs from Riverfront Green Park in Peekskill, Wednesday through Sunday. For more information on special tours, hours and fares contact Trinity Cruise Company at (914) 589-7773.

Constitution Island from West Point

A different angle on the history of West Point is sure to please with boat trips to Constitution Island, once the home of Fort Constitution and the Warner sisters, who wrote inspirational books and conducted Bible classes for generations of cadets. Tour boats leave South Dock at West Point every Wednesday and Thursday during the summer at 1 and 2 p.m. Reservations are a must. Visit Constitution Island or call (845) 446-8676.

Newburgh Landing

Ruins of a 19th century castle on Bannerman's Island can be seen on special guided history and walking tours departing from Newburgh Landing and Beacon. (845) 220-2120.

Hudson River Adventures operates the Pride of the Hudson  out of Newburgh, offering sightseeing and sunset cruises throughout the season. (845) 220-2120)

The "River Rose," a New Orleans-style paddlewheeler, offers sunset and moonlight cruises, as well as afternoon sightseeing cruises, evening dance parties and dinner cruises, all departing from the Newburgh waterfront River Rose Cruises (845) 562-1067.

Poughkeepsie

Departing regularly from Poughkeepsie’s Waryas Park, the 60-foot long, double-decked motor vessel Mystère offers sightseeing and dinner cruises, as well as once-a-month High Tea outings. 866-797-9024; www.empirecruiselines.com

Sightseeing and evening music cruises sail from Kingston's Rondout Landing, navigating past two Hudson River lighthouses and many great estates on the "MV Rip Van Winkle," a 300-passenger cruise boat with all the comforts of home, (845) 340-4700, www.hudsonrivercruises.com .

Hop aboard a charter with your group or take a more public tour, with special offers such as the murder mystery tour, which leaves from downtown Hudson aboard the "Spirit of Hudson." For more information on tours, hours and fares visit Hudson Cruises or call (518) 822-1014.

Albany and Troy

In the Capital District, dance parties and comedy cruises are offered by the Captain JP Cruise Lines out of Troy, (518) 270-1901.

The Dutch Apple Cruises out of Albany feature sightseeing, dinner cruises and special events (518) 463-0220.

River Valley Tours

For cruise enthusiasts who want more time to explore the Hudson Valley, River Valley Tours will customize your dream cruise for you and your group, whether you want to go for a day or the whole week. Tour historic sites and charming villages by coach. Visit River Valley Tours or call (239) 395-2191 for more information.

We are closed for the season. Thank you to all of our customers, hope to see you next spring!

Hudson Cruises, Inc.

Hudson river boat tours in ny, a scenic trip you'll love.

With more than 20 years of experience in the tourism industry, Captain Guy ensures that locals and visitors alike enjoy their adventure on the Hudson — so much so that Hudson Cruises, Inc. was featured in USA Today’s Travel Tips as one of their top three “Dinner Cruises in the Hudson River Valley.”

From public cruises to a private charter cruise, we offer it all. Enjoy a scenic trip or start a new tradition with old friends aboard our vessels. We offer weekly sightseeing cruises.

More Hudson Experiences

Private cruises.

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TripAdvisor's #1 Tour in Hudson, NY

We loved this two hour cruise. It was very comfortable and informative and the crew were helpful and friendly. They also have very convenient hours and great views!

What a wonderful boat ride and a a beautiful day. We really enjoyed seeing the eagles and the beautiful foliage. Great narration about the Hudson River.

The captain was knowledgeable and welcoming. We loved the trip on the boat. We got a good vantage point from which to view the Hudson River and we were able to see historic sites like Olana from the boat.

Our cruise was informative and relaxing. The staff was helpful and the scenery was awesome. Many birds were pointed out along the ride, as well as focal points along the Hudson River.

We had a ball! Our crew was wonderful and it was a wonderful day on the river! Highly recommend for a lovely afternoon with friends and family.

Dear Friends,

Thank you all for being the best customers any business could hope for!

The River Rose will not be sailing from our dock in Newburgh, NY for the 2023 cruise season. However, our sister ship, the Rip Van Winkle II is sailing from her home port of KINGSTON, NY. They have a wide array of cruises to choose from. To purchase your cruise tickets for the Rip Van Winkle  II, departing from KINGSTON, NY please click on the link below:

Click here to book your cruise on the Rip Van Winkle II departing from Kingston NY

For all charter inquiries, please call the river rose office at 845-562-1067 or email to: [email protected].

Thank you again for the pleasure of serving you and I look forward to seeing you aboard!

Warm regards, Captain John “Duke” Panzella President River Rose Cruises

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Explore The Historic Hudson River Valley

Your list of top things to do in the Hudson Valley has to include a sightseeing cruise on the Hudson River! Enjoy clear views of historic Hudson River lighthouses, waterfront mansions, and other notable sites aboard the Rip Van Winkle II.

Themed & Music Cruises

Looking for a fun weekend evening activity? Look no further! Share a unique experience with family and friends and dance the night away aboard a DJ Dance or Live Music cruise on the Hudson River!

Make your next special occasion stand out! Whether celebrating a class reunion, birthday party, anniversary, graduation party or any other special occasion, a cruise down the historic Hudson River makes it truly unforgettable.

Planning a group tour? We’re the Hudson Valley tourism experts! For over 35 years, we've shared our love and knowledge of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson Valley with residents, visitors, and groups of all types.

THE HUDSON VALLEY'S PREMIER SIGHTSEEING EXPERIENCE

Featuring guided tours, live music, dinner & more.

For over 35 years, Hudson River Cruises has provided passengers a first-hand view of the historic shoreline from the decks of the Rip Van Winkle II. From our location in the heart of the Hudson River Valley in Kingston NY, we provide a delightfully unique opportunity to explore this scenic shoreline.

As you relax on the cool shaded deck of the Rip Van Winkle II, visit our beverage & snack bars for tasty refreshments. Your experienced guide will point out millionaires' sumptuous estates, picturesque Hudson River lighthouses and quaint, sleepy villages surrounded by the natural beauty of vineyards, orchards and scenic preservation sites.

Our Sightseeing Tour Route

Experience the Hudson Valley like never before aboard a Hudson River Cruise. Explore the Tour Route Below!

GOURMET DINNER & CRUISE

Add a premium dinner package to your sightseeing experience.

You can’t find a more romantic setting in the summer than on the historic Hudson River! Add a Dinner Package to your 2:30 Cruise and enjoy a delicious dinner at Mariner's Restaurant after your Sightseeing Cruise.

GOURMET DINNER & A CRUISE

Add a premium dinner to your sightseeing experience.

You can’t find a more romantic setting in the summer than on the historic Hudson River! Add a Dinner Package to your 2:30 Cruise with Mariner’s or Savona’s Restaurant after your Sightseeing Cruise. Restaurants located within walking distance of the boat dock. Click below to see Menu Options.

DINNER PACKAGE – BOOK NOW

PREMIERE SIGHTSEEING EXPERIENCE – DEPARTING FROM POUGHKEEPSIE – STARTING IN THE FALL OF 2022.

Sightseeing cruise departures made easy for commuters from new york city..

Enjoy a two-hour, narrated cruise highlighted by the breathtaking natural scenery, beautiful estates, lighthouses, and landmarks along the route. These cruises depart from Victor C. Waryas Park in Poughkeepsie, NY.

Until then, come cruise our sightseeing tours.

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A TOP THING TO DO IN THE HUDSON VALLEY

The top-rated sightseeing experience on the hudson river.

Looking for the most relaxing, fun way to spend an afternoon in the Hudson Valley? Grab your friends and family and come aboard the Rip Van Winkle II for the ultimate sightseeing experience.

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TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR SIGHTSEEING CRUISE & SANDWICH

Enjoy a delicious meal and fun voyage on the hudson river.

Come aboard our most popular cruise! Admire historic lighthouses, waterfront mansions, and other remarkable locations while you savor a tasty Joe Beez sub or wrap, chips, cookie, and beverage.

Elevate Your Next Event with a Private Charter

Make your next private event or special occasion unique and memorable with a cruise on the Rip Van Winkle II. From corporate events to weddings and everything in between — a Hudson River Cruise is sure to exceed the expectations of any group gathering.

Unique Private Events

With room for up to 300 passengers and views unlike any other, the Rip Van Winkle II is the ultimate event venue in the Hudson Valley. From weddings and rehearsal dinners to birthdays and anniversaries, a private cruise on the Hudson will make your next event unforgettable!

Unforgettable Group Tours

From educational school field trips to tourism excursions, a Hudson River Cruises group tour is the best way to experience the Hudson Valley. Bring your group aboard the Rip Van Winkle II for an afternoon or evening of fun!

Our Special Hotel Packages

We've partnered with some of the top hotels in the Hudson River Valley to offer you exclusive savings on premium lodging accommodations.

Gift Certificates

Gift the experience of a day or evening cruise on the Hudson River aboard the Rip Van Winkle II. Hudson River Cruises’ gift certificates are the perfect solution for making any special event or occassion a truly unique and memorable experience.

What People Are Saying About Hudson River Cruises

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Dock: 1 East Strand Street Kingston, NY 12401

(845) 340-4700 or 1-800-843-7472

Business Office (Mailing Address): 40 Rondout Landing Kingston, NY 12401

Copyright © 2024 Hudson River Cruises. Website Powered by Twin Cities Agency Diedrich RPM

General Information

If you have any additional questions please use the Contact Us form . For questions about our specialty cruises, please click here . Do I have to purchase a ticket in advance? Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended, as cruises may sell out. To be sure you are able to purchase tickets for the cruise date & time you prefer, we suggest you purchase tickets early.

Does the Pride of the Hudson cruise in the rain? Yes! The Pride of the Hudson will run rain or shine. The main deck is fully enclosed and climate controlled, so guests can cruise in comfort while enjoying the panorama of the Hudson River through huge wrap-around windows. In the event of severe weather we would have to cancel and you would be given the opportunity to reschedule for another cruise date.

Can I combine discounts? The Pride of the Hudson occasionally runs promotions and offers discounts. You are welcome to use any discounts offered upon ticket purchase, however discounts may not be combined.

How many passengers will the Pride of the Hudson hold? The Pride of the Hudson will take up to 130 passengers on each cruise.

Are food or drinks served during the cruises? Yes, we have a bar/snack bar that sells alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages and light snacks. These items include frozen daiquiris, beer, wine, soda, water, coffee, hot dogs, nachos and cheese, chips, candy and more! Prices range from $.50 to $5 for snacks, and beverages start at $1.25. Souvenirs such as post cards, photographs, and magnets are also available for purchase.

Can I bring food or drinks aboard the Pride of the Hudson? You may not bring alcohol aboard the Pride of the Hudson. You may bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages such as water, juice, & soda on board.

Is it customary to tip the crew? Gratuities are completely at the guests’ discretion. They are appreciated but will not be solicited aboard.

Is there assigned seating aboard the Pride of the Hudson? No. Seating availability is on a first come first served basis. The Pride of the Hudson has tables and chairs on both the top and main decks. Benches are available on the bow.

Is smoking allowed on the Pride of the Hudson? Smoking is allowed aboard the Pride of the Hudson in certain areas. Guests cannot smoke in the main deck. Guests can smoke on the top deck and bow area.

Will I get seasick? Seasickness is very rare on our cruises since we travel on the river and experience almost no rocking. Our vessels are very stable and we will only be about a half a mile offshore for the duration of the cruise. Should you be particularly prone to motion sickness, feel free to take your own preventative measures beforehand (Dramamine will not be available for sale on board).

Is the boat handicapped accessible? Unfortunately the boat is not formally wheelchair accessible. We do welcome fold-able wheelchairs on board but passengers must be able to board the boat via the gangway (wheelchairs won’t fit on the gangway, but anyone who can board with assistance should have no problem). Any passenger with a walker should not have a problem. Note that the restrooms on board are not wheelchair accessible. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.

Are pets allowed? Unfortunately all pets other than service dogs are not allowed on the cruise. If you need to bring a service dog, please let us know by filling out the form on the contact page.

Are there life jackets on board? Yes, the Pride has life jackets available for all passengers; however, you are not required to wear them on board.

Are there any restaurants near the dock? There are several restaurants in walking distance from the dock. If you are planning to dine prior to the cruise, please leave ample time to dine prior to boarding the Pride. Check out our ‘Links & Tour Partners’ for suggestions of places closest to the dock.

Sightseeing Cruises

Are the Pride of the Hudson’s sightseeing cruises good for kids? We welcome children aboard the Pride of the Hudson for our sightseeing cruises! A reduced ticket price of $18 is offered for children ages 4-11. Children 3 and under cruise for free, but they must have a $0 ticket to board. The Pride of the Hudson is safe for children. We do require that children are supervised while on board.

Where do we go & what do we see on a Narrated Sightseeing Cruise? The Pride of the Hudson’s Narrated Sightseeing Cruises depart from the Blu Pointe Landing and head South on the Hudson River. As the Pride cruises south along the Hudson River you will see sites such as Washington’s Headquarters, Bannerman Island, the Catskill Water Aqueduct, Storm King Mountain, Cold Spring, and West Point. You will hear a narration of the sites as we pass. On our return trip North, you can get a second view of most of the sites.

Groups, Schools & Camps

Can Scout Groups come aboard the Pride of the Hudson? Of course! Both girl scouts and boy scouts can have an amazing time aboard. A cruise aboard the Pride of the Hudson will prove to be both educational and fun for all. Badge programs are available. For more information about the badge programs, please contact us.

Do you do field trips for schools aboard the Pride of the Hudson? Of course! The Pride of the Hudson cruises through an historic part of the river and is perfect for all ages of students! If our regular schedule does not fit into your time constraints, we are happy to schedule a cruise to fit into the school day! We have activity sheets that can either be worked into a class curriculum prior to the cruise or can be completed aboard. For elementary level students, we also have a Junior Historian or Junior Deckhand certificate that can be earned aboard. For more information about field trips, please contact us.

Private Charters

A Day Trip Guide to Newburgh, NY

Just over an hour’s drive from Montclair, Newburgh, New York offers beautiful Hudson River waterfront views and experiences, delicious cuisine, and fun and funky shops . The land was originally inhabited by the Waoranek people, part of the Lenape tribe of the Algonquin Nation. Newburgh also served as George Washington’s final headquarters during the Revolutionary War. This historic, creative community has much to offer. Read on to plan your fun day in Newburgh.  

MG Pro Tip: A quick, stunning drive over the Newburgh Beacon Bridge leads to the charming, artistic hub of Beacon, New York allowing for maximum exploration! 

Things to Do

Motorcyclepedia museum | 250 lake street.

Vroom, vroom! Drive on by to the Motorcyclepedia Museum whose mission is “to create the best motorcycle museum in the world”. The collections include motorcycle parts, artifacts, and memorabilia all meant to educate the public about the past, present, and future of motorcycles.

Pride of the Hudson River Cruise | Pride’s Landing: 4 Washington Street

(Photo credit: @prideofthehudson)

All aboard! Hop on a day or evening cruise to take in the Hudson Highlands’ breathtaking views, including Bannerman Island, majestic mountains, Washington’s Headquarters, West Point, and more. The price point is $18-28 for a two-hour, narrated sightseeing experience with the option of bringing or purchasing food.

Read More: A Day Trip Guide to Westfield, NJ

Safe Harbors of The Hudson | 104 Ann Street

With the mission of “Transforming Lives and Building Community through Housing and the Arts,” Safe Harbors of The Hudson is the place to go to experience art, a historical theater , and community. Ann Street Gallery features art “to increase arts literacy and appreciation by engaging community and promoting forward-thinking, socially responsive, and under-represented positions in contemporary practice.”

Washington’s Headquarters | 84 Liberty Street

Experience the site where history was made when George Washington stayed here as the Revolutionary War was ending. A family (and “Hamilton” fan) friendly destination, there are multiple buildings, monuments, and a museum to explore also showcasing Hudson River views. Admission includes a guided tour .

Where to Eat

Blacc vanilla cafe | 197 south street.

(Photo credit: @blaccvanillacafe )

Blacc Vanilla Cafe is a cultural hub serving breakfast, lunch, baked goods, and coffee. The cafe fosters community collaborations that promote “education, training and skills development, self-improvement and economic self-sufficiency while building a sense of hope and self-worth.”

Blu Pointe | 120 Front Street

(Photo credit: Blu Pointe )

Offering stunning waterfront views and spacious, welcoming indoor and outdoor ambiances, Blu Pointe specializes in “locally-influenced seasonal dishes” including fresh seafood. 

Hudson Taco | 27 S. Water Street

(Photo credit: @hudsontaco )

Hudson Taco is located in a train station built in the 1900s by the same firm that designed Grand Central Station. Hudson Taco’s menu of Mexican Street Food highlights ingredients from local farms, wineries, and cheesemakers.

MG Pro Tip: For a unique beverage experience, don’t miss Hudson Taco and Newburgh Brewing Company’s “aMAIZing” Corn Lager which is made using local corn.

Machu Picchu | 301 Broadway

(Photo credit: Machu Picchu )

This family-owned and operated restaurant has been serving the Hudson Valley’s best Peruvian cuisine for lunch, dinner, and dessert over the past 30 years!

Mama Roux | 96 Broadway

(Photo credit: Mama Roux )

One can’t go wrong enjoying Mama Roux’s beautifully curated atmosphere featuring Art Deco details and a welcoming outdoor seating area. Enjoy Cajun cuisine made using local ingredients.

Mary Jane’s Dairy Bar | 5334 Route 9W

(Photo credit: Mary Jane’s Dairy Bar )

Savor a sweet frozen treat of homemade ice cream or a variety of food options at Mary Jane’s Dairy Bar. 

Newburgh Brewery Company | 88 South Colden Street

(Photo credit: @newburghbrewing )

Newburgh Brewery Company’s beers are “brewed with heart”. With a taproom, beer garden, and menu of locally sourced food, one can’t go wrong. 

Newburgh Flour Shop | 109 Liberty Street

Newburgh Flour Shop is a family-owned bakery chock full of culinary treasures from bread to pastries.

Pamelas on the Hudson | 1 Park Place

(Photo credit: Pamelas on the Hudson )

Enjoy fresh, seasonal food right on the waterfront for brunch, lunch, or dinner! Featuring a wide array of fresh seafood.

Where To Shop

The barking goose bookstore bar & cafe | 16 north plank road.

(Photo credit: @barkinggoosebookbar )

Enjoy a lovely selection of curated books, local craft beers and ciders, and a bite to eat all at The Barking Goose Bookstore Bar & Cafe.

See More: A Day Trip to Tarrytown + Sleepy Hollow, NY

Cream Boutique | 101 Liberty Street

(Photo credit: @cream_newburgh )

Cream Boutique is the place to go for modern and vintage fresh fashion finds.

Field Trip | 113 Liberty Street

(Photo credit: Field Trip )

Add Field Trip to your field trip and shop handmade goods from the Hudson Valley for the home, wardrobe, and pantry in addition to plant-based skincare.

Newburgh Vintage Emporium | 5006 Route 9W Newburgh & 10 NY-17K Newburgh

(Photo credit: Newburgh Vintage Emporium )

With two Newburgh locations and over 145 vendors, there are many vintages, antique treasures, and locally made goods to discover at Newburgh Vintage Emporium. Open every day but Tuesday, shop all things vintage to your heart’s content from vinyl, housewares, furniture, and clothing to art and ephemera that transform a space into a home. There’s even a vintage candy shoppe. Be sure to check out the outdoor flea markets this fall.

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Hudson River

The 507 km long Hudson River is considered the longest river that flows entirely through the US State of New York . This long river flows from the north to south direction through the eastern side of the New York State and serves as a political border between the State of New York and the State of New Jersey . In the northern part, the river serves as the local boundary between several counties in New York State.

The Hudson River originates from the Lake Tear of the Clouds that is located close to the base of Mount Marcy in the Adirondack Mountain Range at an elevation of 1,317m. In the initial stages of its course, the river is known as the Feldspar Brook till it joins with the Opalescent River. The river is then known as the Opalescent River which flows southwards from the outlet of Henderson Lake and reaches the Calamity Brook. The Indian Pass Brook also flows into Henderson Lake and from the confluence of the Calamity Brook and Indian Pass Brook, the river is cartographically referred to as the Hudson River.

For the first 174km of its course, the Hudson River flows in the southeast direction and passes through the town of Corinth in Saratoga County. From there, the river flows in the northeast direction and reaches the Hudson Falls. From the Hudson Falls, the river flows southwards and reaches the Federal Dam in the city of Troy. The bottom of the dam that is located at an elevation of 0.61m, marks the starting point of the lower course as well as the tidal influence in the Hudson River. The wide Hudson River then meanders southwards through the Hudson Valley and finally reaches the upper New York Bay that is situated between New York City and New Jersey. At the New York Harbor, the Hudson River drains into the Atlantic Ocean .

The Lower part of the Hudson River acts as a tidal estuary and experiences two distinct high tides and two low tides every day. The tidal current moves northwards at a very slow rate such that different portions of the river can experience high tide and low tide at around the same time. These strong tides often make portions of the New York harbor dangerous and difficult to navigate. During the winter months, the ice floes drift southwards or northwards depending upon the flow of tides. The Hudson River reaches a maximum depth of 62m at its widest point known as the “World’s End”, which is located between the Constitution Island and United States Military Academy. At its southern course close to the Federal Dam, the river reaches a depth of 9.1m. Some of the major tributaries of the Hudson River include Boreas River, Cedar River, Croton River, Catskill Creek, Indian River, Sacandaga River, Schroon River, Wallkill River, Batten Kill River, Mohawk River, Wappinger Creek, etc. The Hudson River Watershed which includes the Hudson River and all its tributaries drains an area of 34,000 sq. km and covers major portions of New York as well as the portions of the states of New Jersey, Connecticut , Vermont , and Massachusetts . As the tidal influence from the ocean extends up to the city of Troy, the average discharge of fresh water is about 490 cubic meters per second. The average discharge of freshwater at the river’s mouth is about 620 cubic meters per second.

Geologists consider the Hudson River to be a “drowned river” . It is believed that after the end of the Wisconsin Glaciation, the rising sea levels led to a marine incursion that drowned the coastal plains and bought the saline waters above the mouth of the Hudson River. Due to the glaciation and the rising sea levels, the lower portion of the river is a tidal estuary that occupies the Hudson fjord , which was formed about 26,000 to 13,300 years ago.

It has been recorded that currently there are about 220 species of fish in the Hudson River. Some of the major fishes that are found here include American shad, striped bass, American eels, glass eels, Atlantic tomcod, hogchoker flatfish, northern pipefish, Atlantic sturgeon, etc. In addition to the fishes, several zooplanktons, oligochaete worms, chironomid flies, mollusks, polychaete annelids, Atlantic blue crabs, etc are also found. It is estimated that more than 100 invasive species are found in the Hudson River including zebra mussel, green crab, and Japanese shore crab. The Hudson River Estuary has one of the largest concentrations of freshwater wetlands in the northeastern part of the United States. It has also been found that due to climate change , the rising sea levels have led to an increase in the area of the wetlands.

Brief History

Before the arrival of the Europeans, the area around the Hudson River was inhabited by several indigenous people mainly by the Mahican, Lenape, and Wappinger branches of the Algonquians group. The Mahicans named the river “Muhhekunnetuk” , which means the river that flows two ways and is believed to refer to the river’s long tidal range. The first European name of the river was “Rio San Antonio” which was given by the Portuguese explorer Estevao Gomes. In 1524, the Italian navigator Giovanni da Verrazzano sailed along the Atlantic Seaboard and entered into the New York Harbor. However, he left abruptly without exploring further upstream, and in 1609, the English navigator Henry Hudson was sent by the Dutch East India Company for further explorations and his search for the Northwest Passage. Hudson sailed upstream of the river that was later on eventually named after him. In 1629, Dutch began to settle in the river valley and referred to the river as the “North River” , relative to the Delaware River that was then known as the South River. The Dutch established the New Netherland colony along with three principal fur-trading outposts. In 1664, the New Netherland colony and the fur-trading outposts were surrendered by the Dutch to the British and the colony was rechristened as “New York” .

During the American Revolutionary War , the areas along the Hudson River served as sites for numerous battles including the Battle of Long Island, Battle of Harlem Heights, Battle of White Plains, etc. Many canals were built during the beginning of the 19 th century, to facilitate transportation and navigation throughout the interior parts of the country. One of the most notable canals that were built during this time was the 584km long Erie Canal, which stretched from the Hudson River in the city of Albany to Lake Erie in the city of Buffalo. The canal enhanced the development of this part of the United States and made New York City one of the country’s most significant ports. In 1996, the US Congress designated the Hudson River Valley as a National Heritage Area. However, throughout the years, the Hudson River has been severely polluted by pollutants such as urban runoff, agricultural sewage, and industrial wastes. Between 1947 and 1977, the discharge of industrial wastes from the General Electric Plant contaminated the Hudson River with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB). This pollution led to significant effects on wildlife and people who consumed fish from the Hudson River. Since then, numerous efforts have been taken to clean up the Hudson River.

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