The Esperanza Rose is the great-granddaughter of the old and elegant Keuka Lake steamships of the 19th century, and she does her ancestors proud. Owners David and Lisa Wegman have rightfully trusted Captain Bart Adams with their dream of bringing back the chance for people to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake while enjoying the hospitality of a real pleasure cruise.
Captain Bart and his dedicated crew create a jovial atmosphere of welcome, relaxation, and genuine friendliness.
Built in 1982 on the North Carolina coast, with the lines of an ocean-going shrimp or scallop boat (though it never saw service as such), the Esperanza Rose has been a pleasure craft in many waters.
In 2005 the Wegmans brought her through the canals to Seneca Lake and then over land to Keuka.
At 65 feet and 85 tons, with a triple-planked hull and twin Detroit Diesel engines, she is more than enough to plough the waves of Keuka on even the roughest days, but not so large as to deprive you of the feel of being on a boat in calm weather.
The ship and shore crews ensure faultless embarkation and the safest of journeys. All members of the crew have been trained in every function of the boat and are happy to serve in any and every capacity that might be needed. No boat could be safer. While not fully handicapped accessible, wheelchair accommodations and personal assistance are a routine matter for this well trained and eager crew.
Departing guests from the lunch cruise were filled with praise. “We’ve been on cruises all over the country and this one was the best and most enjoyable! It was the most laid back and relaxing one we’ve ever taken. The staff were delightful!” said Jeannette Profeta and Vi Witzel of Irondequoit.
From Lynn Hulse and Carol Robeson in the office and on the dock, to Lauren Huggler behind the bar and serving meals, the enthusiasm and charm were infectious.
“I LOVE working here! It doesn’t even feel like a job. I just get to have fun on a boat!” said Lauren.
But work they do! Painting, fueling, cleaning, stocking, and serving, they do it all. They hate to see the boat shut down for the season at the end of October and can’t wait for the season to start again in May.
The Esperanza Rose’s options range from the afternoon Sightseeing Cruise with bar service, to the very popular Saturday night Moonlit Cruise with a complimentary wine tasting and live music, to the Lunch, Dinner, and Sunday Brunch Cruises, each with very appealing menu options prepared in the ship’s own galley. Chef Brian Hargrave has had the honour to be trained by
Master Chef Carlo Peretti (now at the New York Wine and Culinary Center in Canandaigua) and his meals reflect that influence. I could only wish that every wedding I have ever attended had a meal as fine as what I sampled during my dinner cruise on the Rose.
The Tuscan Chicken was as perfect as any restaurant could hope for. The roast beef with red wine demi-glace looked equally delicious. I will say that Chef Brian’s own Pinot Noir dressing on the Rose Salad is so good it should be bottled and sold on the dock!
Part of the enjoyment of a cruise on the Esperanza Rose is the obvious pleasure Captain Bart and all the crew take in their work.
Bart’s well-timed announcements with bits of information on the history of the lake, his friendship with so many people in the community, and his respect for all the needs of his boat, his crew, and especially his passengers, are all part of what make these cruises worth repeating every season.
With the fall foliage coming soon, I (and many others) will be making early reservations for what will be another fantastic day on Keuka Lake with some of the friendliest people you could ever meet serving you delicious food and drink.
What on Earth could be better?
The Esperanza Rose
3537 Rt.54A
Branchport, NY 14478
315-595-6618
www.esperanzaboat.com
