The Harbor Cruise Line operates out of some pretty ritzy places--Key West, Boston, NYC, Newport, RI--and now our own lovely state of New Jersey. Docked on popular Pier 13 in the Shipyard Marina, the Yacht Beacon takes families, friends, and romantic lovers on 1 1/2 and 3 1/2 cruises down the Hudson and into NY Harbor. I took my boat-lovin' hubby, kids aged 9 and 7 and my 16-year old niece and all ages had a wonderful time.

Captain Colin and First Mate Stephanie were extremely friendly and knowledgeable, but thankfully also very laid back and non-touristy--there was no announcing of landmarks unless you inquired, and then they were glad to talk. The 52-foot yacht was small and comfy (fits up to 44 guests) with open areas on the bow and the back deck and a covered area mid-ship for shade (where my 7-year old son swung on the support poles for a good long time), plus a nice clean bathroom and a bar with a decent choice of beer, wine and soft drinks to purchase.

The views were gorgeous, of course, with a nice close-up of the Lady in the harbor and the unexpected excitement of watching the NYPD boat chase down a jet skier on a joyride up the East River. We took in the scenery, chatted, drank, chilled and generally just enjoyed the (relative) silence of being out on the water. Much to my children's delight, the yacht was just small enough to do a bit of bouncing when other boats passed by, but it was mild enough that no one turned green--it just added to the adventurous spirit.

The Yacht Beacon goes out periodically on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and will operate until October. Private charters are available, as are day cruises, concert cruises (Bob Dylan on the water, anyone?) and fall foliage cruises come autumn. Oh, and 5$ off for Hoboken residents with ID! For more information on this fun NJ/NY experience check out Classic Harbor Line's website and happy sailing!