EP 157: Sailing from Shadows to Hop-O-Nose on the Hudson River.

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