The day started out with a steady drizzle and overcast skies, but that didn’t put a damper on the spirits exuberant men, women and children boarding the majestic ship for Misameach’s one-of-a-kind Annual Cruise. The singing could be heard from down the block, getting louder and louder as we approached the ship standing ready and waiting at the Liberty Landing Marina.

Walking up the gangplank and entering the boat, we were immediately enveloped in the joy and the excitement reverberating throughout the boat, as we were greeted by volunteers as if we were family.

The music started before the boat left the marina, as the dance floor took on a life of its own. Families settled in, finding their places at the many gaily decorated tables and enjoying the lavish lunch buffet that seemed to never run out.

And then, with a slight lurch, the boat took to the choppy waters of the Hudson River, as it embarked on its three hour trip, a trip that, since its inception several years ago, has become symbolic of the remarkable experiences created by Misameach for hundreds of sick children and their families.

Somewhere between the Hudson River and the East River, the rains died down and the sun broke through the crowds, as families enjoyed the view out on the decks, taking in the sights of the Statue of Liberty, South Street Seaport and the helipad, and for some of us – the homes of some of our favorite people on the Lower East Side of Manhattan!

Inside the ship, the Ruach never abated, thanks to the musical talents of the legendary Avraham Fried, Shimi Engel and Eli Marcus, accompanied by the Harmony Band and the most leibidig volunteers known to mankind.

Never seeming to tire, the volunteers danced the cruise away, sweeping children into the lively circles and watching the smiles transform their faces as they felt the warmth and the love and the joy of their Misameach family.

While the ground level was turned into a concert hall, the second floor was home to a child’s wonderland. Aside for the food, a whole host of games and activities entertained the children for the duration of the cruise. Crafts, face painting, cotton candy and more were supervised by dedicated volunteers who naturally and gracefully made every child feel special.

Scooter the Schnitzel Man created balloon sculptures according to every child’s specification, while keeping them laughing, dancing and singing as they waited.