In this episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States, host Bela Musits takes a break from his ongoing trip recap with Mike Malekoff to welcome a special guest: Bob Lattanzio. While recent episodes have chronicled Bela and Mike’s relocation of a Hunter 44 Deck Salon from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont, this conversation shifts focus back to the podcast’s interview format, bringing in fresh insights from another experienced sailor.

Bob shares his background, his sailing experiences, and the many lessons he has learned on the water. Together, Bela and Bob dive into what makes sailing such a unique pursuit: the combination of technical skill, patience, problem-solving, and the deep connection to nature that comes with time aboard. For Bob, sailing has been not just a pastime but a way of life that shapes how he sees the world and approaches challenges.

Listeners will appreciate the blend of storytelling and practical advice that emerges during the conversation. Bob and Bela talk through memorable experiences, from the highs of perfect sailing days to the lows of unexpected repairs and weather challenges. They reflect on the adaptability every sailor must develop, whether cruising long distances on the East Coast or handling the day-to-day realities of maintaining a boat.

The conversation also touches on the community aspect of sailing. Bob explains how friendships formed on the water can be some of the strongest and most enduring. Bob discusses his involvement with the Baldwin Yacht Club and how joining a yacht club can enhance your enjoyment on the water. Key Topics

Covered in This Episode:

• Reflections on a lifetime of sailing experiences.
  

• The challenges and rewards of cruising on the East Coast.
  

• How adaptability and problem-solving define the sailor’s mindset.
  

• The importance of preparation, seamanship, and safety.
  

• Stories of memorable days on the water—both good and bad.
  

• The unique friendships and community bonds formed through sailing.
  

• What keeps sailors like Bob returning to the water year after year.
  

For anyone passionate about sailing, whether you’re just starting out or have logged thousands of nautical miles, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. Bob’s perspective enriches the ongoing themes of the podcast while standing on its own as a valuable conversation about cruising, connection, and the enduring allure of life under sail.

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

Happy 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

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In this episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States, host Bela Musits continues his sailing journey with fellow sailor and boat owner Mike Malekoff aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon. Recorded during their trip from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont, this conversation captures the unique challenges and experiences of sailing the Hudson River and preparing for entry into Lake Champlain.

Their stop at Hop-O-Nose Marina in Catskill, New York sets the stage for one of the most important milestones of the voyage—taking down the mast. While Bela jokingly describes the marina as “modern, clean, spit-and-span” with a healthy dose of sarcasm, the real reason for the stop is all business. The marina is known for its crane services, making it one of the few places along the Hudson where cruisers can safely unstep a mast before entering the Erie or Champlain Canal.

Mike explains why this is necessary: the bridge clearances to Lake Champlain are very restricted at 17 feet. This leaves sailors and many power boaters no choice but to take the mast down or lower their “air draft”. Bela and Mike talk through this process, sharing insights about preparation, marina logistics, and the sometimes nerve-wracking reality of lowering such a large spar from a cruising sailboat.

Listeners get a firsthand account of what it’s like to deal with this challenge—how boaters coordinate with marina staff, handle rigging, and secure the mast for safe travel. For those planning their own journeys up the Hudson River or through the Champlain or Erie Canal system, this episode provides valuable perspective and practical tips.

Beyond the technical side, Bela and Mike reflect on the journey itself. Sailing from Georgia all the way north has already provided them with countless stories, but entering Catskill represents a turning point. It’s a reminder that cruising isn’t just about open-water sailing; it’s also about adapting to inland waterways, marinas, and infrastructure. The camaraderie between sailors, the quirks of small-town stops, and the satisfaction of tackling each obstacle together all shine through in this conversation.

For sailing enthusiasts, especially those curious about the Hudson River, Catskill marinas, mast stepping and unstepping, or cruising toward Lake Champlain, this episode is a must-listen. Bela and Mike’s humor and storytelling make the technical aspects approachable, while their real-world experiences highlight the rewards and challenges of long-distance cruising on the East Coast.

Whether you’re planning your own trip up the Hudson, dreaming of exploring Lake Champlain by sailboat, or just love hearing about the realities of life aboard a Hunter 44 Deck Salon, you’ll find both inspiration and practical knowledge here.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

• Why sailors must take down their mast before entering the Champlain Canal.
  

• The role of Hop-O-Nose Marina in Catskill, NY, for mast services.
  

• Insights into bridge clearances and challenges of inland waterways.
  

• Tips for preparing your sailboat and working with marina crews.
  

• Reflections on the journey from Georgia to Vermont aboard a Hunter 44.
  

• Humor, camaraderie, and lessons learned along the Hudson River.
  

Join Bela and Mike as they share another chapter in their adventure sailing and cruising the East Coast. Their blend of technical insight, storytelling, and humor makes this episode not just informative but thoroughly entertaining.

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

Happy Sailing!

Bela and Mike

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.com

Happy Sailing!

Bela and Mike

Life at Hop-O-Nose MarinaSailing Lessons from DowntimeKey Takeaways for Cruisers and Sailing Enthusiasts

In this episode of Sailing the East Podcast, host Bela Musits continues his engaging conversation with Robert Sweet, a passionate sailor, who lives in Pittsburgh and keeps his boat in the Bahamas.

In this installment, Bela and Bob explore:

• Life on the water – Bob shares stories from his experiences of sailing in the Bahamas. He reflects on what makes the journey rewarding, from the people you meet in marinas to the ever–changing landscapes of the islands.
  

• Long Distance Cruising - When you live in Pittsburgh but your boat is hundred of miles away. How do you plan your trips? Getting to the boat.

• Lessons for boaters – From navigation and seamanship to understanding weather and safety, Bob discusses what every sailor and powerboater should keep in mind before taking on longer passages.
  

• Owning and maintaining a boat – Bela and Bob talk about the realities of boat ownership, the costs and responsibilities involved, and why preparation is key to enjoying time on the water without unnecessary stress.
  

• Community and connection – Whether it’s cruising with friends, joining yacht clubs, or meeting fellow loopers along the way, Bob emphasizes that boating is not only about the voyage but also the shared stories and friendships built along the way.
  

Throughout the conversation, Bela guides listeners to think about the parallels between cruising and life itself — patience, problem–solving, and finding joy in the journey rather than just the destination.

For sailors and powerboaters alike, this episode provides inspiration and practical takeaways.

Keywords for sailors searching Spotify: Sailing podcast, boating adventures, cruising America’s waterways, Robert Sweet, Bela Musits, liveaboard life, boat maintenance, boating safety, navigation tips.

🔗 Stay connected:

• Listen to Part 1 of Bela’s conversation with Robert Sweet for the background story and earlier insights.
  

• Follow Sailing the East Podcast for weekly episodes on sailing, cruising, boat ownership, and interviews with sailors, authors, and adventurers.

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

Happy Sailing!

Bela and Mike

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

Join host Bela Musits and Captain Mike Malekoff as they continue their multi-day sailing journey up the United States East Coast aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon. In this episode, they share the details of their passage from Half Moon Bay Marina in Croton-on-Hudson, New York, to Shadows Marina in Poughkeepsie, NY — a scenic and eventful run on the historic Hudson River.

This episode is part of a special series recorded during the relocation of Mike’s boat from Brunswick, Georgia, all the way to Burlington, Vermont. With each leg, Bela and Mike bring listeners along for the ride, sharing real-time observations, navigational decisions, and the beauty (and occasional challenges) of cruising one of America’s most storied waterways.

Highlights from this episode include:

• Smooth sailing with a tailwind – Thanks to excellent passage planning and favorable conditions, the crew maintained an impressive seven-knot average speed for much of the 30-mile leg.
  

• Tidal assist – Strategic timing with the tide gave them a strong push upriver, making for one of the fastest runs of the trip so far.
  

• Weather blessings – Consistently great weather has been a highlight of this relocation voyage, allowing for comfortable and efficient travel.
  

• Debris challenges – Heavy rains upriver had flushed a surprising number of logs and floating debris into the Hudson. Bela and Mike share how they stayed alert, maneuvered around hazards, and avoided damage.
  

• River life and scenery – From shoreline views to passing landmarks, the Hudson River continues to offer a stunning backdrop for their sailing adventure.
  

Why this episode is a must-listen for sailors and cruisers: If you’re planning to cruise the Hudson River, or considering an extended relocation trip on the Intracoastal Waterway and connected inland rivers, this episode offers valuable insights. From understanding how to leverage tides for better speed, to dealing with unexpected navigational hazards like floating logs, Bela and Mike provide firsthand knowledge that’s both relatable and useful.

Key takeaways for boaters:

• Plan your departure times to align with favorable tides — the boost in speed and fuel efficiency is worth the effort.
  

• After heavy rains, expect more debris in the river and stay vigilant, especially at higher speeds.
  

• Even short legs can be some of the most scenic and memorable parts of a voyage — don’t rush through them without taking time to enjoy the surroundings.
  

About the hosts:

• Bela Musits – A lifelong sailor, Bela is passionate about sharing real-world cruising experiences. As host of the Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States Podcast, he brings listeners aboard for authentic stories and practical advice.
  

• Mike Malekoff – Owner of the Hunter 44 Deck Salon featured in this journey. Mike brings extensive sailing experience and a knack for detailed trip planning, ensuring each passage is both safe and efficient.
  

Whether you’re an experienced sailor, an aspiring cruiser, or simply someone who loves the romance of life on the water, this episode offers a front-row seat to an unforgettable day on the Hudson River.

Keywords for SEO: Hudson River sailing, Half Moon Bay Marina, Shadows Marina Poughkeepsie, cruising the Hudson, Hunter 44 Deck Salon, East Coast sailing podcast, tide-assisted sailing, boating trip planning, Hudson River boating hazards, sailing relocation trip, Brunswick GA to Burlington VT, Intracoastal Waterway cruising, liveaboard sailing stories.

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

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