With so many exciting attractions packed into a relatively small area, it’s easy to understand why New York City is a popular tourist destination. NYC truly has something for everyone. With so much to see and do, it is difficult to experience it all in one single trip. Luckily, you can see many NYC landmarks easily and enjoyably through a NY Harbor Cruise on the Skyline Princess.
What makes NY Harbor so great? Read on and learn about the rich history of NY Harbor.
NY Harbor and Trade
One of the largest natural harbors in the world, NY Harbor is part of the Port of New York and New Jersey. Sitting at the mouth of the Hudson River, it empties into New York Bay and into the Atlantic Ocean at the East Coast of the United States.
Henry Hudson came to New York Harbor in the year 1609. Hudson reported the protected harbor and rich farmland to the Dutch West India Company. A trading post was established around the southern area of what was called Manna-hata Island. In 1626, the Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam and the New York Harbor was established.
As New York’s settlements moved to the north, farms were created and trade around New England was common. New York’s population continued to grow and just before 1800 it became the United States’ largest city. Trade quickly began to boom and New York became a powerful place of commerce. By the mid 1800s, NY Harbor exchanged more cargo than anywhere else.
Cornelius Vanderbilt and Steamboats
Cornelius Vanderbilt was an American business magnate who built his wealth in railroads and shipping. When Vanderbilt was just 16 years old he decided to start his own ferry service after working on his father’s ferry in NY Harbor.
In 1817, Vanderbilt partnered with Thomas Gibbons in a steamboat business called the Union Line. Gibbons died in 1826, and Vanderbilt was later bought out by Gibbon’s son.
In the 1830s, Vanderbilt shifted his operations to the Hudson River and went head to head against the Hudson River Steamboat Association. He named his service the “People’s Line,” offering cheap fares for all.
Sail with Skyline This Summer
Whether you are visiting New York or you are a local resident looking for a unique way to view many iconic landmarks, Skyline Cruises is the perfect choice. Sailing through NY Harbor you will be surrounded by history and will have a memorable trip to brag to your friends about. To learn more about renting the Skyline Princess for your next event, contact Skyline Cruises today! Please keep in mind that while we are strictly adhering to NYC guidelines for health and safety, there is a 100 guest maximum on all charters in order to practice safe social distancing.
