Concerns Rise Over Raucous Boat Parties Near City Island
The charming waters off City Island in the Bronx have transformed into a gathering place for loud boat parties, drawing the ire of local residents. Many are calling these revelers “party pirates” for their habit of anchoring boats equipped with massive sound systems and turning the serene surroundings into an aquatic nightclub.
Over the past few years, locals have noticed a dramatic increase in noise levels, particularly during the summer months. John Sheridan, a long-time City Island resident, recalls when boat gatherings were more subdued. “We started noticing it about eight years ago, but it was nothing compared to the chaos we see now,” he said. “When COVID hit, people seemed to take their celebrations to the next level on boats.”
These late-night parties often stretch well into the early hours, creating a disturbance that plenty of residents find hard to tolerate. Bob Preti, who moved to City Island in 2018, remarked, “You hear loud music by evening, but it gets really wild when boats start dropping anchor around 10 p.m. It can go on till four in the morning.”
The noise problem isn’t just an annoyance. Unsafe behaviors have been observed as well. In June, an incident involving a 35-foot party boat resulted in a fire, injuring nearly two dozen people. The boat’s captain was charged with drunk driving, highlighting serious concerns around both safety and alcohol use among boaters.
Frederick Ramftl, the president of the City Island Civic Association, noted that the disturbances are widespread. “You can hear the loud music at three or four o’clock in the morning, and it’s happening all over— not just by Hart Island,” he stated.
Residents are now calling for increased law enforcement presence on the water. “We need better patrols from both the NYPD and the Coast Guard to tackle the issue,” Council Member Kristy Marmorato said. She is currently working with the NYPD to explore funding for an additional Harbor Unit to address these concerns.
Mamorato’s conversations with the “NYC Pirates,” the jet ski club associated with many of these parties, suggest a willingness to find common ground. James Reichelt, the group’s leader, indicated a desire to regulate their activities better. “I’m blamed for all the boat tie-ups, but I try to help keep things reasonable,” he emphasized. It is a step in the right direction to engage with local authorities and try to create a safer environment.
Still, many residents feel that the Coast Guard is not doing enough. “We need more law enforcement assistance, instead of turning a blind eye,” Sheridan expressed. Without adequate oversight, the parties may continue to escalate.
The NYPD has stated they are actively addressing the issues on the water, having issued multiple summonses this year and making arrests when necessary. Yet, many locals feel that these measures are not sufficient to deter the loud celebrations that disrupt their lives.
As Independence Day approaches, concerns are growing that noise levels will soar. “Over the weekend, I heard bass for 18 hours straight,” one resident shared online. It raises questions about the balance between enjoying recreational boating and ensuring community members can have quiet nights.
Malcolm “Tommy” Jones, another local boat owner, argued for fair enforcement of regulations that don’t completely squash the sailing experience. “We just want some places designated for partying, without making it a hassle for everyone,” he stated.
Zeeshan “Princezee” Ali, a humorist with a significant following, has participated in some of these gatherings and believes they foster a sense of community. “It’s a positive vibe out there; it feels like a yacht club,” he said.
While Ali sees the bright side, residents focus on the urgent need for solutions. As the summer heats up, City Island and its surrounding waters will require better governance to protect a quality of life that many have cherished for years. Balancing the fun of boating with the rights of nearby residents is crucial and can only be achieved through collaboration between boaters and local authorities.
