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Dinner cruises on Long Island

BY JOAN REMINICK | joan.reminick@newsday.com

July 2, 2008

The Lauren Kristy, a 65-foot, turn-of-the-century style riverboat, sails from Bay Shore. (THE LAUREN KRISTY PHOTO / July 1, 2008)

The gentle motion of a boat through water. The reflection of the sun as it sinks below the horizon. The scent of the sea wafted by an ocean breeze.

All this and dinner, too.

If you've never thought about taking an evening cruise (before, after or with supper), you may not know about the sails Long Island has to offer. No need to book a stateroom or pack a suitcase for any of these. Some may transport you to a peaceful realm. Others, featuring live entertainment or a DJ, may take you somewhere else altogether.

Freeport Nautical Cruises

395 Woodcleft Ave.
Freeport
516-623-5712
nauticalcruiselines.com

VESSEL: Nautical Empress, a 160-foot three-level yacht

WHERE YOU'LL CRUISE: Calm South Shore waters

WHEN: 7:30-11:30 p.m., various dates

COST: $97.99

This is a cruise as a catered affair. It starts with a Champagne boarding and cocktail hour with passed hors d'oeuvres and pasta stations, followed by a complete sit-down dinner with several entree selections and top-shelf liquor. You'll travel the tranquil waters of Baldwin Harbor and other spots; there's a DJ and dancing. Check Web site for dates.

The Martha Jefferson Port Jefferson Harbor
Port Jefferson
631-331-3333
marthajefferson.com

VESSEL: An 85-foot Mississippi River paddleboat

WHERE YOU'LL CRUISE: Long Island Sound

WHEN: 7-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays