Hudson River Security Checks Ruffle Some Feathers

Would you sell your boat online if you thought that too many security checks were getting in the way of your enjoyment? Or would you deal with the security checks on the water the same way you deal with security checks on land at airports and other places–as something that is annoying but necessary?

One man who used to look forward to summers sailing the Hudson River told The New York Times that he has been stopped four times in one day. He is not alone, although all of the people who are not happy about frequent stops have not sold their boats. Boat clubs and marinas are contemplating just what they can do. Some people are circulating petitions and there are plenty of people interested in signing.

Law enforcement officials say the extra vigilance is necessary One area boater noted that people used to say law enforcement didn’t do enough: “Back then the Hudson felt like the Wild West,” said George Samalot, who has owned a sailboat repair business in West Haverstraw since 1985.” The increase in stops has let officials help inexperienced boaters who otherwise may have found themselves in trouble.

“Officials say that while they are sensitive to the complaints, there is no going back to the world before 9/11.

“Job No. 1 is keeping people safe,” said Charles Rowe, a Coast Guard spokesman. “Even the ones who are complaining.”