When my family cruised up the Hudson from NY to (eventually) the Montreal
worlds fair in 1967, the river was full of "sticks", many the size of 50 yr
old Sycamores. I understand it hasn't changed much. You'll want to get the
family used to watching for them. They're the same color as the water and
they hide just beneath the surface. Big fun for propellors.

"gmar" wrote in message
om...
Getting some experience on local waters is a good idea. I live where
the Mohawk and Hudson rivers meet, so that won't be a problem. Plus I
can take the canal system right into NYC or Canada. Thanks for
the replay. I guess my next step is to contact the coast guard.