Captain’s Log

Journal entries from our Long Haul on the Bicentennial Voyage of the Erie Canal Boat, Seneca Chief

Week Four – Schenectady to Hudson

October 14–20

Day 19 – Schenectady
The River House – October 14
The crisp, overcast day in Schenectady brought brass band fanfare and the cheerful energy of a city proud of its canal heritage. The welcome ceremony opened with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by three talented high school singers, setting the tone for a memorable day. Marketing Director Mike joined in, bringing both more beer and more buzz to the event. After a long afternoon of steady pours and conversation, we ended the day steps away at Druthers Brewery. Their Puck Drop Pilsner hit the spot as the Seneca Chief crew gathered for food, laughter, and stories to close out another successful stop.

Day 20 – Waterford, Part I
Waterford Visitor’s Center – October 15
The Seneca Chief’s arrival in Waterford was marked by sunshine, pride, and a resounding cannon call — or at least a pyrotechnic version of one! Crowds lined the riverwalk on a beautiful Wednesday afternoon, eager to celebrate the canal that defines their town. With steady sales and constant chatter, the day flew by. Crew member Doug earned MVP status as my beer runner, keeping kegs and coolers stocked. As evening fell, fireworks drew in even more visitors, and the Waterford Visitors Center treated us to lasagna, hospitality, and a swag bag complete with a shot glass — now my own piece of Waterford crystal.

Day 21 – Waterford, Part II
Waterford Visitor’s Center – October 16
Thursday brought another sunny day and a smaller, easygoing crowd. After the previous day’s rush, the relaxed pace was a gift. That evening, the crew gathered at a backyard party hosted by John Callaghan, Executive Director of the Hudson River/Black River District. Around the campfire, stories and laughter flowed freely — the kind of night that turns colleagues into lifelong friends.

Day 22 – Troy, Part I
Troy Downtown Marina – October 17
A bright, chilly Friday in Troy began with a pre-dawn drive to Saratoga Springs for a fresh beer supply — Long Haul continues to live up to its name. Space was tight, and the Big Ditch setup found its home behind Ryan’s Wake Pub. The morning started slow but warmed up quickly, especially thanks to the kind pub owner who brought over a bowl of soup. By afternoon, the crowd thickened as visitors stopped for a beer after touring the boat. The day wrapped up just steps away at Brown’s Brewing, where comfort food and camaraderie capped off another leg of the voyage.

Day 23 – Troy, Part II
Troy Downtown Marina – October 18
Saturday’s weather was warmer, and though the stop was shorter, it turned into one of my favorites. With the Seneca Chief bound for Albany that evening, I finally had the chance to ride along on the boat. Floating down the Hudson River — beer in hand, surrounded by calm waters and fall colors — was pure magic. For weeks I’d been traveling alongside the crew by car, and getting to experience the voyage from their view felt like seeing the whole journey anew.

Day 24 – Albany
Jenning’s Landing – October 19
Wind and sunshine greeted us in Albany, where we set up above the Seneca Chief facing the amphitheater. To-go beer sales kept the afternoon moving at a steady pace. Andrew arrived just in time with reinforcements — the final batch of Long Haul, fittingly enough. After the event, we headed to Excelsior Pub downtown, where the menu pays homage to New York’s regions. Their “canal wings” — a blend of Buffalo’s Frank’s hot sauce and Albany’s sweet melba sauce — were the perfect bridge between home and the Capital.

Day 25 – Hudson
Henry Hudson Park – October 20
If there were ever a day that tested our resolve, Hudson was it. Gale-force winds, rain, and cold temperatures kept most folks indoors. To make matters worse, the Hayburnermobile suffered a flat tire — but thanks to Dan from AAA and the good people at J&D Auto in Cohoes, I was back on the road in record time. The day’s saving grace came from crew member Laura, who served up a steaming pot of chili that warmed body and soul. Spirits stayed high despite the weather, as we looked forward to clearer skies and the home stretch of our journey.

Reflections on Week Four

At every stop, I’ve been struck by the kindness and generosity of people across New York State — gestures big and small that remind you how much good there is in the world. The enthusiasm for this voyage has been contagious, and it’s inspiring to think that no one told the Buffalo Maritime Center to build a canal boat and sail it across the state — they just did. That same determination built the Erie Canal itself, and seeing it reborn through this voyage feels like history come full circle.

As we enter the Hudson Valley, the end of the journey draws near. But there’s still time for a few more laughs, a few more toasts, and a few more miles on this Long Haul.

Here’s to the next round, and the next town.