Summary
While visiting New York, it became evident that dedicating time to Central Park was essential.
This is a location that many often overlook due to its accessibility, cost-free entry, and availability at almost any hour.
Undoubtedly, such convenience should encourage longer visits to the park. However, the very reasons that make it easy to enjoy can also result in postponement until one returns home, only to recognize they have entirely missed out on this experience.
Moreover, there is an overwhelming array of attractions in New York that can collectively pull your attention in multiple directions, particularly when time is limited during a short visit.
On this occasion, the weather was favorable, prompting us to seize the opportunity to rent some boats and explore more of Central Park compared to our last visit in spring a few years ago.
Prior to delving deeper into our experience, it is beneficial to address several crucial aspects that may prove useful if time allows for leisure in New York City.
LOCATION
The Loeb Boathouse is centrally located in Central Park.
It is situated near the iconic Bethesda Fountain, which is the fountain found in the heart of Central Park.
Everyone will recognize it, even if you personally may not at the moment.
COST TO RENT A BOAT
The rental fee for the boats is $15 per hour, and a deposit of approximately $20 is required.
Note that only cash is accepted; therefore, it is advisable to acquire cash before your visit, as finding an ATM in the vicinity can be challenging.
Additionally, there is a fee of $4.00 for every extra 15 minutes beyond the initial hour, along with the same $20 cash deposit.
BOAT CAPACITY
The maximum capacity for each boat is four individuals. Given their dimensions, the boats are surprisingly spacious in accommodating this number.
BEST SEASON FOR BOATING
You can enjoy boating on any pleasant day from April to November. Essentially, if the sun is shining, it is suitable for boating.
For assurance, it is prudent to call ahead to confirm availability.
BOAT RENTAL DURATION
You are free to keep the boat for as long as you can afford it, with an additional charge of $4.00 for every extra 15 minutes beyond the initial rental period. Be mindful that the facility operates between 10 AM and 6 PM.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Interestingly, you can also opt for a Gondola tour here, accommodating a maximum of six individuals. This option is ideal if you prefer being rowed around rather than engaging in the physical activity yourself. To be honest, it was quite enjoyable to row, albeit somewhat awkwardly.
Comprehensive information is available on their website, but as previously mentioned, knowing the costs and location is sufficient to start your experience.
Lloyd initiated the rowing journey, having the advantage of sitting in the rower’s position.
However, it became apparent that Lloyd struggled with rowing (or so we assumed) which prompted me to take charge of the situation.
It’s pertinent to apply some skills acquired from my Cambridge rowing club experience…
In no time, I summoned reinforcements in the form of Georgia.
Truth be told, all of us were eager to try our hand at rowing this boat!
Conversely, we easily found ourselves distracted…
… and may have found ourselves momentarily entangled in a few hedges.
The park was alive with visitors, all eagerly enjoying the beautiful weather! (The Bethesda Fountain is visible below, by the way.)
Ultimately, renting a boat here presents a uniquely charming perspective of Manhattan!
This vantage point offers a refreshingly different experience compared to viewing New York from towering skyscrapers, yet is equally delightful!
During this outing, Georgia and I quickly discovered a method to both row and splash a significant amount of water onto Lloyd.
However, do not feel sorry for him; his behavior warranted it. He was portraying himself as Little Lord Fauntleroy while instructing us on how to row. Evidently, it was necessary to bring his ego back down a few notches.
Moreover, we encountered amiable ‘Canadians’ also enjoying the area.
As I previously inquired, do Canadian geese migrate from Canada each year, or is the name derived merely from their designation at first discovery?
As earlier mentioned, you have the option to hire the boat for as long as you desire, which we certainly took advantage of.
During our venture, we did encounter numerous individuals on the water (apologies to those affected).
Ultimately, it became evident that our coordination in rowing diminished due to laughter shared among friends.
Subsequently, we returned to the ‘shore’ to return our boat.
Both satisfied with the novel perspective we encountered of New York City, coupled with our modest rowing achievements (or shortcomings), we were eager to find a place for lunch.
