This morning I had the extreme pleasure of setting sail with Seneca Sailing Adventures. Not often does one get to experience this sort of extraordinary adventure on the clock, but I was escorting a journalist visiting Finger Lakes Wine Country – regardless, it felt like more of a vacation than actual work! Captain Terry Stewart and his First Mate, Lisa, hosted me and our guest aboard the Lee Sea Anne for three picturesque and very memorable hours.
We couldn’t have ordered more beautiful weather! Although it was only about 60 degrees (a little chilly for August in the Finger Lakes) when we first boarded the boat at 9am, the sun was warm and the crisp lake breeze was refreshing. We motored around a bit, learning about the infamous Painted Rock, Hector Falls and even the salt plants – U.S. Salt and Cargill Salt. Once we started to feel a steady breeze, Terry and Lisa threw up the sails and our real adventure began!
Having never been on a sailboat before, I was intrigued by all the ties, ropes (or lines, I should say) and cranks – even just the jargon they used giving each other direction. It was truly fascinating to see how intricate it is to actually sail a boat. Terry went into great deal explaining what they were doing and why there were doing it. I felt a little guilty just sitting there enjoying the spectacular scenery of Seneca Lake as they put all their muscles into getting the sails just right. But Terry and Lisa would have it no other way. Both knowledgeable and extremely accommodating, we couldn’t have had better hosts. The excursion was the perfect combination of a fascinating lesson and complete relaxation.
One of the best ways to experience the Finger Lakes is on the lake itself. A cruise with Seneca Sailing Adventures is the perfect way to relax and take in the breathtaking sights as well as get a taste of adventure. You can charter the boat for a private cruise or just join one of their daily cruises (they set sail twice a day throughout the season). Costs are incredibly reasonable for what I would consider a priceless experience. I can honestly say it’ll be an adventure that will leave you smiling from ear to ear!
