Big Apple, Big Show: Fourth of July Fireworks in New York

For generations, New York's harbor has been a symbol of the city's vitality. We are all familiar with the images of modest passenger vessels bringing immigrants to Ellis Island and to a new life. The same harbor was a gateway to the world, as not-so-modest ocean liners filled with the nation's upper crust departing on luxurious cruises to Europe and beyond.

Today, the port is no less active, though perhaps activity is less visible to land-based observers, as massive ocean freighters and tankers that slip into Port Authority docks along the New Jersey shore have replaced oceangoing passenger vessels.

Boaters who have transited the harbor on their way north up the Hudson River or into the East River and on to New England know it remains as big and robust as ever ? Big Apple, big city and a big harbor that remains exciting to visit. Many boaters approach New York for the first time from the south, laying over the night before at Sandy Hook or Atlantic Highlands in New Jersey. In the morning, they hear the early call of harbor pilots lining up their ships for the day. Soon it's time to join the big ships heading into the harbor. Anticipation builds as a boater approaches the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. The harbor comes into view only after arriving boats have passed under the bridge.

Passing the orderly clutter of moored vessels and fuel barges in the lower harbor gradually reveals a grand view of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty and the sprawling piers of New Jersey ? a treat not to be missed. It's one of the on-the-water experiences that makes boating so special.

Fourth of July fireworks may well be the biggest event in a city known for big events. People crowd the shores of the Hudson River, arriving quite early to be assured a good vantage point. The fireworks secret I wish to share: Boaters can have the best seat in the house either from the several marinas on the Hudson River or by being in the Hudson either up- or downstream of the Macy's fireworks barges. Remarkably, the viewing flotilla is quite orderly. Any boater deciding to join this group has expectations of an enjoyable evening even for the designated driver. Can't have your own boat in New York for the Fourth? Buy a ticket for an evening cruise on any of the host of cruise boats, water taxis, charter yachts and historic sailboats that offer everything from fancy dinner cruises to simply a grand view of the show.

The cruiser planning a trip to New York can anchor south of and behind the Statue of Liberty, though he should first check local cruise guides for conditions and restriction updates. Those who want to go to a marina should make reservations early. Being on the outermost docks allows the best view. It may expose boaters to more wave action, but as the Fourth is a holiday, the disturbance is minimal and well worth it. Just plan on getting under way early the next morning. If July 5 is a workday, commuter water taxis will make the Hudson River seem like an old-fashioned washing machine in quick order.

Rockets' Red Glare
The Big Apple isn't the only place that celebrates our nation's birthday with waterfront pyrotechnics. These great boating cities also play host to fantastic tributes to America the beautiful.

» Boston, Massachusetts ? Watch the famed Boston Pops on the Charles River between the Longfellow and Massachusetts Avenue Bridges (pictured above). Festivities take place on both the Boston and Cambridge sides of the river.

» Miami, Florida ? America's birthday bash at Bayfront Park is one of the largest fireworks displays in South Florida. The show begins at 9 p.m.

» Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ? The Wawa Welcome America festival lasts 10 days and concludes with fireworks launched from the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Watch from Schuylkill River Park.

» Traverse City, Michigan ? Fourth of July celebrations coincide with the National Cherry Festival. Drop the hook and watch the show over Grand Traverse Bay.

» Chicago, Illinois ? Three separate events will replace the Grant Park display this year. The best for
boaters will be at Navy Pier. Fireworks start at 9 p.m.

» San Diego, California ? The Big Bay Boom launches fireworks from barges in North San Diego Bay. The show starts at 9 p.m., and the best viewing is from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero, Seaport Village and Coronado Ferry Landing.

» Seattle, Washington ? The Family 4th at Lake Union celebration kicks off at noon with activities like kite making and face painting for kids. Fireworks begin at 10 p.m.

» Charleston, South Carolina ? Head to Patriots Point on Charleston Bay for this Southern city's homage to American independence. The aircraft carrier USS Yorktown will play center stage in the fireworks display.

» Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri ? On Sunday July 3 the Lodge of Four Seasons at Lake of the Ozarks will hold its annual Fireworks on the Water extravaganza. On July 4, cruise over to the lake's main channel, where boaters gather for the Tan-Tar-A Resort's fireworks display.

» Lake Tahoe, Nevada ? Watch the red, white and blue reflect off the water at this nationally recognized fireworks display. Anchor near Regan, El Dorado or Nevada Beach for the best view.