Pollepel Island

Pollepel Island, also called Bannerman Island, is a small island in the Hudson located in the heart of the Hudson Highlands, between Beacon and Cold Spring. It is best known for the spectacular ruins of Bannerman Castle, a former warehouse built between 1900 and 1918 by Francis Bannerman for his collection of military surplus. The island now belongs to the New York State parks system and shore access is managed by the Bannerman Castle Trust, which organizes seasonal tours.

For cruisers, the area is of particular interest for its anchorage possibilities. The Pollepel anchorage is located behind the island, on the east side of the Hudson. Pilot guides generally indicate 8 to 11 feet in this area, with a mud bottom providing good holding. The spot is however relatively exposed to north and south winds and remains subject to the Hudson current.

An interesting option is to approach from the south of the island, where a passage then allows access to the sheltered area behind Pollepel. This approach provides access to greater depths in some spots and can be more comfortable for boats wishing to avoid coming directly alongside the island. Recent cruiser reports note depths of 12 to 18 feet in this southern sector.

Our anchorage is a bit further south and more easily accessible:

41.450022, -73.984804