We are bound for New England. We caught the East River at the flood tide and were soon making eleven knots past buoys, boats, islands, and office buildings. Deckhand Dave Briddle got a workout on the helm before we even reached Hell Gate. Hell Gate is the confluence of the East River, the Harlem River, and Long Island Sound. The currents at this point can reach six knots on the ebb.
Whirlpools develop that make it impossible to hold a steady course.
The bow abruptly takes a dive to starboard. The helmsman spins the wheel to correct and I rev the engines to give more rudder control. Back on course. Suddenly she leaps to port. Warm work at the helm.