Boating Info

Welcome! This page's sections describe boating on the Hudson River and elsewhere. The parts cover, in brief, ownership prices, club comparison, general fees, the Hudson River itself, and helpful website links. Please never hesitate to contact the PYC with any inquiries you may have regarding our memberships for boat owners and non-boat owners.

Boating Information

Welcome! Here you will find everything you need to know about boating on the Hudson River and beyond. Whether you are looking for ownership prices, club comparison or information about the Hudson itself, we’ve got you covered. If you can’t find what you are looking for contact the PYC for more info active and social memberships etc.


Boat Ownership Costs

B.O.A.T. is an acronym many boaters use for “Break Out Another Thousand” - simply put, boating can be expensive. While every boat and boat owner will generate a different need for maintenance and repairs, you should generally expect to spend between 6-10% of the boat’s purchase price every year. It should be noted that the PYC is a “working club” making it one of the least inexpensive places to own and operate a boat.

Boat storage can be one of the more expensive aspects of owning a boat. If you don’t have a boat small enough to tow home in the off season, the PYC offers storage at competitive rates far lower than those found in places like Long Island Sound.

When considering the cost of boat ownership, insurance is factor that will come into play. As a rule of thumb, you can expect to spend up to 4% of the boat’s cost on insurance annually. The actual cost of insurance will depend on several factors including the size and age of the boat. It can be overwhelming trying to figure out which company offers the best coverage and rate, so don’t be afraid to ask other members at the PYC about the benefits or drawbacks of different insurers.


Boating On The Hudson

Regardless of where you are boating, you must always be mindful of weather and water temperatures. Local boaters can enjoy a relaxing day of sailing or motoring along the river taking in the views of several lighthouses, Esopus Island, or anchoring for a quick visit to one of several natural beaches. If you forget to pack your lunch, don’t worry! There are various restaurants to be found along the shore of the Hudson that can be accessed by boat. If you are feeling especially adventurous and want more than a day sail, head North to the locks that lead to Vermont and beyond, or go South and make your way to Long Island Sound, New Jersey or New York City. Some PYC members head out before winter and travel the Inter-Coastal Waterway (ICW) before returning to New York the following summer. There are many opportunities at the PYC for casual and serious boaters alike.

Inter-Coastal Waterway (ICW)

Several members are seasoned travelers of the ICW. Check out “Fleetwing Blog” for real member experiences from the ICW.


What is offered?

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There are many things to consider when trying to find the club or marina along the Hudson that is right for you. Surrounding attractions, hidden fees, utlity costs, or even how protected your boat will be on the dock, are all things to take into consideration. The PYC has no hidden fees (for water, electricity, etc.) and has a little added protection for boats on the dock thanks to Esopus Island directly across from the property blocking wakes from some of those passing by. Contact the PYC to schedule a visit to see the grounds and docks in person.

Common Utility Costs

Members of the PYC pay for dock/mooring, hauling, and storage. As a working club, all services are provided by members who contribute time to maintenance rather than outsourcing labor – which keeps the cost of membership more reasonable.


Useful Boating Links

Mid-Hudson US Power Squadron

Learn more about boating. As a unit of the United States Power Squadrons, the Mid-Hudson Power Squadron provides boating classes to the public in locations in and around the area.

View website (click here)


Mohawk Hudson Council

Poughkeepsie Yacht Club is a member of the Mohawk Hudson Council, a group of yacht clubs stretching from Rogers’ Point in Hyde Park to the Schenectady Yacht Club on the Mohawk River. All these clubs offer reciprocity to boaters from other member clubs.

View website (click here)


PYC Tide Charts

Boating On The Hudson

Your where, when, why and how Hudson River information source. Published monthly by Beacon Publishing Corp., Tarrytown, NY. 

View website (click here)


Boating Safety Resource Center

The U.S. Coast Guard is the federal regulating agency for recreational boats. As such, the Coast Guard issues boating safety recommendations and ensures the proper compliance with federal boating safety laws and equipment requirements. Every boater is responsible for knowing and adhering to Coast Guard boating laws and regulations, and laws specific to the state in which the vessel is registered or operated. This includes carrying at least the minimum safety equipment, registering and numbering your boat properly, and the safe operation of your vessel.

View website (click here)