Anchors Up, Opportunities Out: Making Business Moves at Sea

There’s something about being on the water at night — the music’s pumping, the skyline’s glittering, and you’re out there feeling like the main character.

This year’s Independence Day Boat Ride, hosted by DJ Roy and Chef Garfield, wasn’t just another party boat. It was a full-blown experience. From the moment I stepped on board, I knew this night was going to hit different.

Photo Credit: Snap Scene LLC

The night kicked off with VIP level effective, smooth security screening. Before I could even get my bearings, I was in line for a hot and tasty plate of food the moment I boarded (pro tip: feed your guests early and they’ll love you forever).

Boots on the Ground (and Fans in Hand)

Shoutout to BuyCheapCentral.com for proving that brand presence isn’t just about posting online — it’s about showing up. They had branded fans circulating all night, making them impossible to miss. That’s boots-on-the-ground marketing done right.

Views That Deserve Their Own Hashtag

The crème de la crème? The boat pulling so close to the Statue of Liberty it felt like she could’ve waved at us personally. Nighttime photos with Lady Liberty in the background? Gold. Add in the Staten Island Ferry gliding past, the New Jersey and NYC skylines twinkling, Wall Street’s illuminated architecture — it was a photographer’s dream. And you already know I had my camera ready for anyone willing to pose.

The DJ Brought the Vibes

The music never dropped in energy. The DJ held the tone from start to finish, making sure the deck stayed alive. But for me, as a businesswoman, the highlight wasn’t just the dancing — it was the connections.

From Pleasure to Purpose

Here’s the thing: as entrepreneurs (especially solopreneurs), we can get stuck behind a screen, convincing ourselves that posting is enough. But you have to be outside. Being on that boat led me to potential clients who had never heard of my brand. It gave me the chance to amplify the brand of the person who invited me. It allowed me to give others confidence by capturing their best moments on camera.

Lesson learned? Sometimes you have to get out of work mode and into the world. Show up for the people who consider you. And if you can find a way to make your pleasure purposeful — do it. That boat ride wasn’t just a night out; it was a masterclass in presence, connection, and seizing the moment.

Check out some of my favorite shots from the night below — and remember: your next big opportunity might be waiting right outside your inbox.