Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the USA

In this episode of the Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States podcast, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with a true legend of the modern sailing era: David Southwell. David recently made headlines by taking first place in the 2024 OSTAR (Original Single-handed Transatlantic Race), one of the most grueling and prestigious solo races in the world.Sailing across the North Atlantic is never a simple feat, but doing it in the month of May means battling unpredictable weather patterns and contrary winds. As Bela notes, it is often considered the "wrong way" and the "wrong time" to be out there, yet that is exactly what the OSTAR demands. David shares the fascinating history of the race, which began in 1960 as a half-crown bet between sailing icons Francis Chichester and Blondie Hassler.From his childhood dreams inspired by Robin Knox-Johnston to his rigorous training in the Bermuda One-Two, David discusses the mental and physical preparation required to win a solo transatlantic race. Whether you are a weekend cruiser or an aspiring ocean racer, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the discipline and "moxie" needed to conquer the open sea alone.Key Takeaways & HighlightsThe History of OSTAR: Discover how a simple bet in 1960 birthed the original single-handed transatlantic race.The "Wrong Way" Across the Atlantic: Why racing from East to West in May is one of the toughest challenges a sailor can face.American Excellence: David joins an elite list of Americans (including Phil Weld) to ever win this historically French-dominated race.Solo vs. Crewed Racing: Mike and David break down the radical difference between managing a boat with a team versus being the only soul on deck for weeks.Training for Greatness: Insights into using the Bermuda One-Two as a stepping stone for world-class ocean racing.Episode Chapters00:00 – Intro: Sailing and Cruising the East Coast with Bela Musits & Mike Wasserman.01:03 – The challenge of crossing the North Atlantic in May.02:18 – Solo vs. Crewed: The reality of long-distance racing.03:00 – Welcome David Southwell: The 2024 OSTAR Winner.04:00 – The origins of OSTAR: Francis Chichester and the 1960 bet.04:30 – French dominance in ocean racing and the story of "Moxy."05:05 – Inspiration from Robin Knox-Johnston and the Golden Globe Race.05:12 – Training grounds: The Bermuda One-Two from Newport to Bermuda.Resources MentionedOSTAR Race Official Site: Learn more about the Original Single-handed Transatlantic Race.Bermuda One-Two: The premier solo/double-handed race from Newport to Bermuda.Sailing Literature: A World of My Own by Robin Knox-Johnston.Enjoying the show? Subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more legendary sailors like David to the podcast.Enjoyed the episode? Hit the Like button on your app!Email: sailingtheeast@gmail.comHappy Sailing!Bela and MikeConnect with UsSEO Keywords for YouTube SearchOSTAR Race 2024, David Southwell, Bela Musits, solo sailing, transatlantic racing, North Atlantic weather, sailing podcast, Bermuda One-Two, single-handed sailing, East Coast cruising, Newport Rhode Island sailing, Francis Chichester, ocean racing tips, sailing from UK to US. #Sailing #SoloSailing #OSTAR #Transatlantic #OceanRacing #SailingPodcast #CruisingLife

Welcome to the Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States podcast! In this episode, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with veteran sailor John Slingerland to explore a life defined by the wind and waves. From single-handed offshore races to building a sailing-centric retirement, John shares the hard-won wisdom of a lifetime at sea.The Magic of Sailing: John discusses the simple, "great feeling" of being pushed by the wind and the awe of commanding a complex piece of machinery on the open water.Offshore Challenges: Discover the intensity of the Marion to Bermuda Race, including the "1-2" format—sailing to Bermuda with a partner and returning entirely solo.Legendary Voyages: John recounts his journey from a nine-year-old camper to a retired lawyer who circumnavigated the North Atlantic and cruised the Western Mediterranean.The Bluewater Sailing Club: Learn about the community and social benefits of joining a sailing club, including John’s experiences leading ambitious trips to Newfoundland, the Bras d'Or Lakes, and the Caribbean.Preparation and Self-Sufficiency: Get practical tips on preparing a boat for offshore passages, managing gear failures, and the importance of having manual backups like battery-operated navigation lights.Whether you are an aspiring ocean racer or looking for ways to anchor your retirement in adventure, John’s stories offer both inspiration and practical advice. We dive into the realities of "combat conditions" at sea, the importance of vetting your crew, and how to stay connected to a community of like-minded sailors.Bluewater Sailing Club: Explore their website and the Beacon newsletter for upcoming cruises and events.Marion Bermuda Race: An informal cruising race with a strong tradition of celestial navigation.Offshore Passage Opportunities: A resource for connecting boat owners with experienced crew.If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the Like button on your favorite podcasting app!YouTube: Find us on the Sailing and Cruising channel.Email: sailingtheeast@gmail.comGuest Suggestions: Know someone with a great sailing story? Reach out and let us know!Happy Sailing!Bela and MikeKeywords: Sailing podcast, East Coast cruising, ocean racing, Marion Bermuda Race, Bluewater Sailing Club, offshore passage, sailing in retirement, John Slingerland, Bela Musits, Mike Wasserman, Newfoundland sailing.Episode HighlightsWhy You Should ListenKey Resources MentionedConnect with Us

EP-171 Tropic Air Rescue - Tony MarinelloAre you planning a cruising trip to the Bahamas? While the islands are beautiful, medical infrastructure can be scarce. In this episode, we sit down with Tony Marinello, a retired New York State Trooper and the founder of Tropic Air Rescue, to discuss a critical safety gap for sailors and travelers in the Bahamas.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Danger Gap: Tony explains that once you go east of the U.S., you are essentially in a "third-world country" regarding medical care. With only three hospitals across 700 islands, getting help for a stroke, heart attack, or trauma can be life-threatening.Why Helicopters Matter: Unlike fixed-wing airplanes that require airports and ambulance transfers, Tropic Air Rescue utilizes helicopters to fly directly from the scene of the injury to trauma centers in Florida. They are the only operator with medical teams standing by 24/7, ready to launch immediately.Affordable Peace of Mind: We break down the membership model. For roughly $500 a month per couple, members receive immediate evacuation services without upfront payment, as the company bills your insurance directly.Entrepreneurial Insights: Tony shares his journey of identifying a massive market gap—the complete lack of helicopter air ambulances in the Bahamas—and offers advice on validating business ideas.Whether you are sailing, boating, or vacationing in the Bahamas, this is a service you need to know about before you leave the dock.Links & Resources:Tropic Air Rescue: tropicairrescue.comKeywords: Bahamas Sailing, Tropic Air Rescue, Emergency Medical Transport, Helicopter Rescue, Bahamas Cruising, Travel Safety, Medical Evacuation, Entrepreneurship, Boating Safety.If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the like button and subscribe!Email: sailingtheeast@gmail.com Happy Sailing!Bela and Mike

In this highly important episode of the Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of United States podcast, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman welcome back repeat guest Rob Sweet, a physician and seasoned cruiser who recently spent several months in the Bahamas. Rob keeps his boat in Florida while living in Pittsburgh, managing the interesting dynamics of a three-hour plane ride to his vessel.While many sailing discussions focus on anchors and navigation, this conversation addresses a critical, often-overlooked aspect of life at sea: medical emergencies and being prepared when help is hours away.Rob recently took a specialized Offshore Medicine Course from Wilderness Medical Associates, which is specifically designed for sailors and mariners. Even as a physician specializing in geriatric psychiatry, Rob's motivation was to be ready for common sailing injuries, noting that medical school doesn't focus on first aid. The ocean is a large wilderness, and he needed skills beyond a hospital setting.Common Injuries at Sea: Likely incidents include falls, broken bones (rib, wrist, finger), dislocations, dehydration (especially from seasickness), heat or cold exposure (heat stroke/hypothermia), and various wounds or cuts.The Risk of Rescue: The course heavily emphasized assessing the high risk involved in trying to evacuate an injured person via helicopter or ship versus stabilizing the condition on board.Essential Crew Information (The Geriatrics Perspective): Rob stresses that Captains should have a record of all crew/passenger medications, allergies, and any conditions, especially for older guests.Seasickness Medication Warning: He advises that people test seasickness medicine (like a patch) at home first, as it can cause confusion and, for older men with large prostates, urinary retention, which can be a serious issue on a boat.Essential Medical Supplies (Rob’s Purchases): Rob is upgrading his boat with:A better-organized, modular first aid kit (The Modulator).Supplies for cleaning, irrigating, and pressure dressing wounds.A tourniquet.Epinephrine/Epipens and follow-up drugs (antihistamines, steroids) for allergic reactions/stings.Formable splints for fractures.The Power of External Help: Rob stresses the need for onshore medical backup, like a 24/7 contracted video assessment service, especially now that he has Starlink for constant communication.Mike and Bela conclude by strongly encouraging listeners to take a CPR and basic first aid course, noting that even coastal cruisers can be hours away from an ambulance.If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the like button and subscribe!Hosts: Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman Guest: Rob SweetEmail: sailingtheeast@gmail.com Happy Sailing!Bela and MikeWhy You Need to Listen: Medical Preparation for CruisersKey Discussion Points & Takeaways for Sailors:

In this episode, Bela welcomes back returning guest Rob Sweet for his third visit to the podcast. Rob lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – several hundred miles from the Atlantic Ocean – yet owns and sails his boat that’s based in Florida. In earlier episodes (153 and 158), Rob shared how he chose his boat and what it’s like managing a cruising life while living far from the water. Today, Rob and Bela talk about his recent extended adventure cruising the Abacos in the Bahamas.This trip was unique because Rob and his wife traveled during the summer months—a less common time for cruisers due to the start of hurricane season. Rob explains why the early summer “shoulder season” can actually be a great time to visit. Crowds are lighter, anchorages are quieter, and marinas and services are still available. He also shares how he researched historical weather patterns to better understand hurricane risk.Rob discusses preparing the boat for long-distance travel, the experience of sailing across the Gulf Stream, using mooring balls and marinas in the Bahamas, managing water, fuel, and provisioning, and why air conditioning changes everything when cruising in warm climates. Bela and Rob also talk about customs procedures, flying back and forth to the boat, and what it’s like to step directly from your sailboat onto a local ferry in the Abacos.Whether you’re dreaming of your first cruise to the Bahamas or planning to live aboard while living inland, Rob’s story is full of practical lessons—and encouragement that sailing adventures may be more achievable than you thinkConnect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you! Send us your comments and suggestions. sailingtheeast@gmail.comHappy Sailing!Bela and Mike

Join your hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman on the latest episode of the "Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of United States" podcast as they sit down with a truly remarkable guest: Erden Eruc. Erdin is an incredible individual who holds a staggering 18 Guinness World Records and is even a member of the Guinness Hall of Fame.Erden shares his extraordinary journey, including his feat as the first person to complete a solo circumnavigation of the world by human power, pedaling a bicycle on land and rowing a boat across the oceans.The conversation delves into his mental and physical preparation for his next monumental challenge: the 2026 Golden Globe Race. This legendary competition is a solo, non-stop, unassisted sailboat race around the world, replicating the original 1968 event by requiring participants to use only 1968-era technology, such as sextants and paper chartsYou can check out more info on Erden here: https://www.erdeneruc.com/Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you! Send us your comments and suggestions. sailingtheeast@gmail.comHappy Sailing!Bela and Mike

Join host Bela Musits and fellow sailor Mike Malekoff aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon as they continue their incredible voyage up the East Coast of the United States, relocating the boat from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont. This episode captures their journey from Schuyler Yacht Basin to Whitehall, New York, a leg that highlights the beauty, challenges, and joy of extended cruising.Bela and Mike start the episode with a lighthearted story about waking up to wet feet after an overnight rainstorm revealed a small leak in the forward cabin. The two sailors reflect on the realities of life aboard, including quirky boat design features like the windlass placement, which—unfortunately—channels drips right into the berth. Their good humor underscores a theme that runs throughout the voyage: the ability to laugh at inconveniences and embrace the unpredictability of cruising.As they recount the day’s sail, Bela and Mike describe the serene conditions the Champlain Canal. They note the unique blend of rural scenery, historic towns, and quiet stretches of water that make this region a hidden gem for sailors. From the tree-lined banks to the glimpses of wildlife, the passage feels more like a river journey than an open-water crossing, offering a peaceful contrast to earlier, more challenging legs of the trip.Listeners will enjoy the duo’s storytelling as they detail the sequence of locks they navigated, the friendly conversations with lockmasters, and the careful boat handling required in narrow channels. For sailors planning a similar voyage, Bela and Mike share practical observations on timing, line handling, and communication—essentials for smooth transits through canal systems.Beyond the technical aspects, this episode captures the camaraderie that develops over weeks at sea. With more than three weeks aboard at this point, Bela and Mike reflect on the rhythms of cruising life: anchoring, marina stops, cooking aboard, and evenings spent recounting the day’s adventures. Their partnership and shared enthusiasm for sailing shine through, giving listeners a window into the rewarding blend of challenge and relaxation that long-distance cruising offers.The conversation also touches on the natural beauty of upstate New York, the anticipation of reaching Whitehall, and the excitement of approaching the northern end of their journey. As they near Lake Champlain, both sailors express appreciation for how diverse the East Coast cruising grounds are—from the tidal waters of Georgia and the ICW to the freshwaters of Vermont.Whether you’re an experienced sailor, a cruiser planning your own East Coast voyage, or simply someone who enjoys stories from the water, this episode offers both practical insights and entertaining anecdotes. Bela and Mike balance seamanship with humor, making their reflections relatable and engaging for anyone drawn to the cruising lifestyle.Keywords for discovery: sailing podcast, cruising East Coast, Champlain Canal, Schuyler Yacht Basin, Whitehall NY sailing, Lake Champlain sailing, Hunter 44 Deck Salon, long-distance cruising, sailing life stories, liveaboard sailing.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you! Send us your comments and suggestions. sailingtheeast@gmail.comHappy Sailing!Bela and Mike

In this episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States, host Bela Musits continues his journey with fellow sailor Mike Malekoff aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon. Recorded during their relocation trip from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont, this installment covers their passage from Hop-O-Nose Marina in Catskill, New York, to Schuyler Yacht Basin on the Hudson River.Bela begins by returning to the boat after two weeks away, delayed both by a family wedding and a lock closure that left them waiting in Catskill. During that time, Mike held down the fort, provisioning the boat and calling daily for updates on when the locks would reopen. Their reunion kicks off with stories of patience, planning, and keeping a cruising sailboat ready for the next leg of the voyage.With the locks finally open, Bela and Mike prepare to head north. Along the way, they share the practical realities of traveling the Hudson River by sailboat, where timing, tides, and locks all play a role. They discuss their departure from Hop-O-Nose, navigating under bridges, and the shifting challenges that come with moving inland toward Lake Champlain.As the Hunter 44 Deck Salon makes her way upriver, the sailors reflect on both the beauty and the logistics of this leg. They talk about the differences between coastal passages and inland waterways—contrasting offshore freedom with the precise planning needed to transit locks, deal with low bridges, and coordinate with marinas like Schuyler Yacht Basin.The episode also highlights the camaraderie and humor that come with long-distance cruising. Bela and Mike joke about the quirks of waiting in Catskill, provisioning a boat for weeks at a time, and managing life aboard when plans change unexpectedly. For listeners curious about the real-world experience of cruising up the Hudson River, their stories bring the journey to life.This conversation isn’t just about travel; it’s about the mindset of sailors tackling an extended relocation voyage. From patience during delays to the satisfaction of finally getting underway again, Bela and Mike’s discussion captures the ebb and flow of cruising life. Listeners will hear what it’s like to adapt plans, keep a boat shipshape during downtime, and re-energize when the next opportunity to sail arrives.Key Topics Covered in This Episode:Returning to the boat after delays and a two-week pause.The impact of lock closures on cruising schedules.Provisioning and maintaining a Hunter 44 Deck Salon during extended waits.Departing Hop-O-Nose Marina and heading north on the Hudson River.Strategies for handling locks, bridges, and tides on inland waterways.The transition from offshore passages to river cruising.Reflections on flexibility, patience, and the humor of sailing life.For sailors planning a similar journey—from Catskill to Schuyler Yacht Basin, and eventually into the Champlain Canal—this episode provides both inspiration and practical insights. It showcases the mix of preparation, problem-solving, and good humor required for cruising the East Coast.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you! Send us your comments and suggestions. sailingtheeast@gmail.com

In this episode of Sailing the East Coast with Bela and Mike, co-hosts Bela Musits and Mike Malekoff share the behind-the-scenes reality of cruising life during their stop at Hop-O-Nose Marina in Catskill, New York. While many imagine sailing as endless blue water and perfect winds, the truth is that downtime, maintenance, and unexpected delays are just as much a part of the journey. This candid conversation captures the balance of adventure and patience required when traveling by sailboat.Bela and Mike are sailing aboard a Hunter 44 Deck Salon, making their way North on the Hudson River as part of a longer voyage from Brunswick GA to Burlington VT. In this episode, they reflect on their “down day” at Hop-O-Nose, a marina well-known to cruisers as a staging point for stepping and unstepping masts before transiting the Erie Canal or continuing south toward the Intracoastal Waterway.The day unfolds differently than planned. Instead of logging nautical miles, the crew spends time at the dock—handling small projects, enjoying the marina atmosphere, and preparing for the next leg of their trip. Bela and Mike discuss the realities of cruising life, where flexibility is key. Weather, equipment, or marina schedules can change the best-laid plans, and experienced sailors learn to take those pauses in stride.They highlight the community aspect of sailing stops like Hop-O-Nose, where boaters heading in different directions cross paths, trade stories, and offer advice. For Bela and Mike, this downtime becomes an opportunity to meet fellow sailors, learn from others’ experiences, and appreciate the rhythms of the cruising lifestyle.Bela and Mike share how a “down day” can actually be one of the most important parts of a voyage. It’s a chance to:Check equipment and sails to ensure everything is in good order before the next offshore or river passage.Rest and recharge, both physically and mentally, before the next demanding stretch of sailing.Reflect on the journey so far, taking in the unique character of each port along the way.The conversation also touches on how seasoned sailors approach expectations differently than newcomers. Instead of focusing solely on the destination, they embrace the process—the weather delays, the maintenance, and the unexpected layovers—as part of the adventure.The Hunter 44 Deck Salon proves to be a capable and comfortable cruising vessel, but like any boat, it requires care and attention. The downtime at Hop gives Bela and Mike the chance to double-check systems and make sure they’re ready for what’s ahead.This episode offers listeners a grounded perspective on what it really means to cruise by sailboat:Not every day is about miles sailed—sometimes progress looks like rest, repairs, and reflection.Community and camaraderie among sailors are just as rewarding as the destinations themselves.Flexibility and patience are essential skills for anyone cruising the coast or tackling longer passages.For sailors planning their own trips along the Hudson River or down the East Coast, Bela and Mike’s conversation is both relatable and informative. Whether you’re curious about life aboard a cruising sailboat, interested in the logistics of marina stops, or simply love stories of life on the water, this episode delivers authentic insights into the cruising lifestyle.Keywords for SEO: sailing podcast, Hudson River sailing, Hop-O-Nose Marina, Hunter 44 Deck Salon, Catskill NY sailing, cruising lifestyle, East Coast sailing, liveaboard sailors, Intracoastal Waterway journey, sailboat downtime, marina life, sailing stories.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you! Send us your comments and suggestions. sailingtheeast@gmail.comHappy Sailing!Bela and MikeLife at Hop-O-Nose MarinaSailing Lessons from DowntimeKey Takeaways for Cruisers and Sailing Enthusiasts

Join host Bela Musits and sailing companion Mike Malekoff as they continue their unforgettable journey up the U.S. East Coast aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon. In this episode, they arrive at Hop-O-Nose Marina in Catskill, New York — a key stop in their voyage from Brunswick, Georgia, to Burlington, Vermont. Recorded on location, this conversation captures the real-life cruising experience, from evening chats at anchor to the unique challenges of navigating river currents and marina approaches.The episode is part of a multi-show series chronicling their multi-week relocation trip. The audio was recorded directly aboard the Hunter 44, with the background sounds of life on the water adding to the authenticity. Listeners will hear not just about the day’s travels, but also the decision-making, boat handling techniques, and behind-the-scenes problem-solving that make long-distance cruising a rewarding challenge.What you’ll hear in this episode:Arriving at Hop-O-Nose Marina and preparing for the next leg north.The logistics of moving a large cruising sailboat through diverse waterways.Stories from the trip, including anchorage experiences, marina stops, and meeting other cruisers.Reflections on sailing teamwork, weather strategy, and navigating tidal rivers.The unique role Catskill, NY plays for cruisers transitioning between ocean sailing and inland waterways.Whether you’re an experienced sailor, a weekend cruiser, or someone dreaming of casting off for an extended trip, Bela and Mike’s conversations provide insights into the realities of cruising life. From unexpected repairs to perfect sailing days, each stop along the way brings lessons, humor, and an appreciation for the boating community.This episode also paints a vivid picture of the Hudson River region, a favorite among East Coast cruisers for its blend of history, natural beauty, and well-equipped marinas. Hop-O-Nose, in particular, is well-known as a “mast stepping” point for sailors transitioning between the open Atlantic and the Erie Canal system — making it a natural gathering spot for boaters heading in all directions.If you’ve been following along with the earlier episodes in this series, you’ll recognize the rhythm of this trip: long days underway, evenings sharing stories, and the satisfaction of ticking off another milestone on the voyage north. If this is your first episode, you’ll still be able to jump right in and enjoy a snapshot of life under sail on the East Coast.Keywords for searchability: Sailing podcast, Hunter 44 Deck Salon, East Coast cruising, Hudson River sailing, Catskill NY marina, Hop-O-Nose, liveaboard sailing, boat relocation trip, Erie Canal mast stepping, sailing life stories, sailboat trip from Georgia to Vermont, cruising marinas, Hudson River anchorages.Subscribe & Follow: Don’t miss upcoming episodes as Bela and Mike continue their journey north! Subscribe to Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.Thanks for Listening!If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing the podcast — it helps more sailors and dreamers discover the show. Have a sailing story or technical tip you’d like to share? Reach out via email at sailingtheeast@gmail.com

Set sail with Bela Musits and Mike Malekoff in this exciting new episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States. In Episode 150, our co-hosts recount their memorable voyage from Sandy Hook, New Jersey, to Croton-on-Hudson, New York, aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon sailboat. This leg of their multi-day journey brings them through the iconic New York Harbor, under the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and into the scenic, tide-influenced waters of the Hudson River.In This Episode:Departure from Atlantic Highlands Marina at first light.Crossing New York Harbor and entering the Hudson River through the Narrows.The impact of tides and currents on their progress upriver.Passing under major bridges including the Verrazzano-Narrows and George Washington.Sailing past the skyline of Manhattan and navigating busy shipping lanes.Dealing with barge traffic and negotiating safe passage.Arrival at Half Moon Bay Marina in Croton-on-Hudson after a 50-nautical-mile journey.Highlights & Reflections: Bela and Mike share firsthand insights into trip planning, navigation decisions, and the challenges of timing tides correctly. They discuss why wind, tide, and commercial traffic can make or break a day on the water—especially on the Hudson River. Mike, who sails less frequently, offers a fresh perspective on the adventure, while Bela—an experienced sailor—explains the importance of strategic route planning and situational awareness.You’ll hear how they handled strong currents, spotted landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Palisades, and maintained safe passage through one of the busiest and most historic waterways in the United States. Bela reflects on how a calm day with minimal wind provided an ideal opportunity to motor efficiently while soaking in the scenery.Why This Episode Matters: If you're planning to cruise up the Hudson River or pass through New York Harbor by sailboat or powerboat, this episode is packed with real-world insights. Bela and Mike's conversation touches on navigation strategies, safe anchoring, and their experiences at marinas along the route. This episode is a great resource for novice and seasoned cruisers alike.Keywords for SEO and Discoverability: Hudson River sailing, New York Harbor sailing, cruising the East Coast, Hunter 44 Deck Salon, ICW sailing, sailing podcast, East Coast sailing tips, Sandy Hook sailboats, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, George Washington Bridge sailing, Half Moon Bay Marina, Croton-on-Hudson, nautical podcast, sailing in New Jersey, New York boating.Follow Along: This episode is part of a larger series chronicling Bela and Mike’s relocation of the Hunter 44 Deck Salon from Brunswick, Georgia, to Burlington, Vermont. Make sure to check out earlier and future episodes for a full look at their multi-week cruise up the U.S. East Coast.Listen Now and Join the Journey! Whether you’re an aspiring cruiser, armchair sailor, or experienced mariner, Episode 150 delivers a blend of nautical insight and on-the-water storytelling. Set your course for this informative and entertaining episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States.🎧 Don’t forget to follow the podcast and leave us a review!Subscribe & Follow: Don’t miss upcoming episodes as Bela and Mike continue their journey north! Subscribe to Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.Thanks for Listening!If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing the podcast — it helps more sailors and dreamers discover the show. Have a sailing story or technical tip you’d like to share? Reach out via email at sailingtheeast@gmail.com

In this episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States, Bela Musits and co-host Mike Wasserman welcome Robert Sweet — a sailor with an unconventional beginning. Robert lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, far from the ocean. Yet his passion for sailing grew steadily, from childhood outings on a 19-foot O’Day Day Sailer to charting trips in the Virgin Islands.Bela and Robert dive into the unique challenges and rewards of becoming a boat owner later in life. Robert shares how he and his wife — both in their 60s — transitioned from occasional day sails on vacation to seriously planning for boat ownership. Their journey began with modest sailing experiences with the occasional skippered day sail. Over decades, the idea of owning a boat evolved from a casual dream into a concrete goal.To prepare, Robert and his wife booked progressively more immersive sailing experiences. They spent a night aboard a sailboat on Puget Sound, completed ASA 101 and 103 courses in San Diego, and tested overnight stays in various harbors. Each step helped fill gaps in their knowledge.The couple planned two key charters to shape their buying decisions: a three-day trip in the Florida Keys aboard a heavy, blue-water center-cockpit boat, and a week in the Virgin Islands on a modern production cruiser — a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey. Their goal was to compare styles, comfort, and performance before committing to a purchase.But as often happens, life intervened. The Florida Keys trip was postponed three times — first by Robert’s mountain biking injury, then by his wife’s back surgery, and finally by scheduling changes. Eventually, they made the Keys trip in December, followed by the Virgin Islands charter over Easter.During the downtime, Robert immersed himself in research — online articles, boat buying guides, and, crucially, sailing podcasts. He discovered Bela’s show and was struck by the host’s perspective as an “older buyer.” Unlike the typical narrative of a 30-year-old dropping everything to sail away, Bela’s discussions addressed the practical realities of starting serious sailing later in life: ergonomics, safety, injury prevention, and choosing a boat suited to physical comfort.Robert emphasizes that boat accessibility is a real concern. Newer boats often have higher freeboards, making boarding a challenge — especially for shorter crew members. Testing boarding methods became part of their evaluation process when visiting marinas and inspecting potential boats.Robert’s story is a reminder that you don’t have to grow up near the sea to become a competent and passionate sailor. His methodical approach — gaining experience in varied conditions, learning boat systems, and realistically assessing personal capabilities — offers valuable lessons for anyone considering buying a boat later in life.Key Topics Covered in This Episode:Growing up sailing small boats and rediscovering the sport decades laterTransitioning from day sails to overnight trips and multi-day chartersTaking ASA sailing courses to build confidence and competenceComparing blue-water cruisers vs. modern production boatsOvercoming physical and logistical challenges as older sailorsHow to evaluate boarding ease, cockpit layout, and overall ergonomicsThe importance of testing boats in different sailing locations and conditionsWhether you’re an experienced sailor, a dreamer still waiting to cast off, or someone returning to sailing after many years, Robert’s journey proves that passion and persistence can bridge the gap between landlocked life and cruising the Bahamas.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you! Send us your comments and suggestions. sailingtheeast@gmail.comHappy Sailing!Bela and Mike