Harbor on the Hudson

The dining room at Shadows on the Hudson in Poughkeepsie provides views of the river that allow patrons to feel as if they are dining literally on the water. As of May 1 — with the restaurant’s newly opened Shadows Marina — they can.Comprised of 55 seasonal and about 20 transient (per-night) boat slips, this extravagant new harbor offers an array of amenities, including dockside dining: a member of Shadows’ waitstaff will deliver meals to your jetty, return to clear the dishes away, and charge the expense to your marina member account.Miltiadis Kastanis, the general manager at the restaurant, says he tried to create the most luxurious marina in the area. He seems to have met his goal: Some of the marina’s creature comforts include private restrooms with showers; dockside maintenance (some restrictions apply); a laundry service; and a ship store that sells snacks, toiletries, and boating accessories. Each slip also offers wireless Internet access, metered electricity, a pump, and — for an additional fee — a customized dock box or cable for your TV. (But with the picturesque views of the sun setting beyond the Mid-Hudson Bridge, who needs cable?)Security is a high priority at the new marina. Its design includes a wave attenuator, an installed device that reduces the severity of waves generated by passing ships. This helps to prevent docked boats from bumping into each other or into the dock itself, and reduces damage from floating debris. Additionally, a dockmaster assists guests with everything from answering simple questions to actually docking their craft, and watches over your property should you leave the area.And if you do decide to see the sights, a water taxi provides service between Newburgh and Poughkeepsie; since it zips across the water at 60 miles per hour, it’s probably the fastest taxi in the Valley. For those who choose to stay in Poughkeepsie, a free shuttle to and from the Walkway Over the Hudson is also available.With so many options and comforts, Kastanis has made it easy for boating enthusiasts to enjoy a day on the river. “It’s a great addition to the Poughkeepsie waterfront,” he says, “and there is so much more to come.” Bon voyage, and bon appétit!