Sailing on the North River Lobster boat has been one of my annual summer events since it started its excursions in 2014 when the sail was free. Today, that sail still takes you up the Hudson while you sip your drink and have a meal, yet now you need a ticket (~$10) to board.

Reflecting on its humble beginnings a decade ago, the company offered a lobster roll featuring a generous portion of fresh Maine crustacean nestled in a brioche roll with a hint of yuzu aioli, creamy cole slaw, and a side of chips, all for a modest $16. It was a culinary delight. The same sandwich now served without accompaniment, is priced at $32.

My dining partners ordered the Connecticut version, served warm in butter instead of the classic, chilled with mayo. The roll was OK; nothing special, except where you enjoy it. That’s on the deck of a ship that sails up the Hudson for under an hour, making it worth the visit.

For the first time, I decided to sample something else on the menu. I ordered the beer-battered fish and chips with tartar sauce ($22). The haddock was OK with its plentiful chips.

I still recommend a sail that costs $10 to board (pre-summer, some sails were only $5), noting that you can stay aboard for a second sail. It’s a perfect afternoon or evening on the water.

North River Lobster, Co
Hell’s Kitchen
Pier 81 at the Hudson River W 41st St
New York, NY 10036
212-630-8831
pier81info@nycl.com
northriverlobsterco.com