Staying in town for Labor Day weekend?

While the rest of the country gets in their cars and drives thousands of miles on a baking highway to their vacation spots of choice, I’m going to stay right here and do the number one thing listed on about.com’s 5 Things to Do for Labor Day Weekend in NYC.

Exploring the Working Harbor. Photo by John Skelson.

I’m getting on a boat. Several boats, actually. Want to come along?

On the boat. Photo by John Skelson

To start off the holiday weekend right, I’m going on the Hidden Harbor Tour of Port Newark on Saturday 30 August.

Port Newark Container Terminal. Photo by Phyllis Featherstone

I am really looking forward to this.

The pair I call the Dynamic Duo, Ed Kelly, President of the Maritime Association of the Port of New York and New Jersey and Capt Maggie Flanagan, South Street Seaport Museum, marine educator will be guest narrating the trip, and together with Capt John Doswell, WHC’s executive director and tour host, it’s the perfect recipe for a great tour.

Mmmmm. Lobsterrrrrrr. Photo via North River Lobster Company.

After the Hidden Harbor Tour, I’m going to put myself right back on another boat (it’s right next door on Pier 83) for a yummy lunch on board the North River Lobster Company.

That lobster roll has been calling me. Can you blame me? Just look at it.

Fireboat John J Harvey leads the Parade of Tugs. Photo by Vladimir Brezina/Wind Against Current

Then on Sunday 31 August, I know it’s no surprise to you all that I will be attending the 22 running of the Great North River Tugboat Race and Competitions, held annually on the Hudson River at Pier 84 (W44th/12ave).

The Spectator Boat puts you right in the race! Photo by John Skelson

I have my tickets for the Spectator Boat which will put me right among the tugs during the Parade of Tugs and best of all since the Spectator Boat races alongside the tugs, I practically get to be in the big race!

Get a thrill on The Beast. Photo via Circle Line 42

And as if that isn’t enough boat-action for one day, my kid wants to ride The Beast before heading home.

Schooner Adirondack. Photo via Classic Harbor Line

Labor Day Monday, father and son are going to catch an early afternoon sail on Classic Harbor Line‘s the schooner Adirondack, while I relax in my deck chair, adult beverage in hand and await their return to fire up the BBQ.

Photo via University of Wisconsin

Well, that’s my itinerary. What do you have planned for the holiday weekend? Let us know in the comments.

by Mai Armstrong for the Working Harbor Committee