disagree
We’ve paddle on many a July 4th to watch fireworks and the Coast Guard appreciates knowing when we plan to cross the river and will facilitate.
If you’re not crossing the river, then just stay close to shore. Watch out for ferries zipping in and out of Morris Canal and know where the NY Waterways and Water Taxi docks are located. Be especially careful if they are looking at you towards the sun, you will be invisible to them.
Here are great safety videos on the NY Harbor Safety. The first one is just the paddler’s section. https://vimeo.com/38515380
This one is the full 30 minute video. https://vimeo.com/35229030
Lyn