Alpine to Marlboro by boat

Pilotage Plan: From Alpine, NJ to Marlboro, NY

Departure: Alpine, NJ
Your journey begins at Alpine, located along the beautiful Hudson River. As you set off, ensure your vessel is prepared for the journey ahead. Verify that all safety equipment is on board, including life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit. Take a moment to check the weather forecast to plan for any unexpected changes.

Route Overview
The trip to Marlboro spans approximately 40 nautical miles, mainly navigating the Hudson River and carefully avoiding commercial shipping channels and other potential hazards. This route passes through scenic landscapes, offering picturesque views of the Palisades Cliffs, with opportunities for dynamic boating experiences and sheltered anchorages.

Key Points of Interest:

1. Palisades Interstate Park: Shortly after departing from Alpine, cruise along the eastern shore of the Hudson River to experience the stunning Palisades cliffs, offering great photo opportunities.
2. Englewood Boat Basin: This is an excellent place to stop for a break. It has facilities, fuel, and is a great spot to stretch your legs and enjoy views of the river.
3. Fort Lee Historic Park: Before reaching the George Washington Bridge, consider a brief stop here to explore the historic site and learn about the Revolutionary War.
4. The George Washington Bridge: A monumental landmark that is not only a navigational point but also a significant engineering feat. Keep a keen eye on your charts as you navigate beneath it.
5. Haverstraw Bay: As you continue north, Haverstraw Bay presents an expansive body of water that serves as an ideal shelter in inclement weather. Plan to target this bay if weather conditions start to deteriorate, as it offers several coves perfect for anchoring.

Critical Navigational Considerations
Navigating the Hudson requires awareness of significant navigational aids:
Navigational Buoys: Pay close attention to the channel markers, especially as you navigate around Haverstraw Bay, to maintain a safe distance from shallow waters.
Depth and Tides: The Hudson River’s depth can vary, particularly around the river’s turns. Regularly consult tidal charts as they can greatly affect your draft and the position of navigation aids.

Hazards to Avoid
Commercial Traffic: The Hudson River is a busy waterway, especially near major urban centers. Exercise caution and adhere to the Colregs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea) when approaching busy areas.
Shallow Areas: Certain bends on the river may have shallow spots, particularly near Haverstraw and other small tributaries. Always refer to your local charts for detailed depth information.

Local Regulations & Restrictions
Be aware of local regulations regarding speed limits and no-wake zones, notably near marinas and residential areas, to avoid fines and ensure a safe passage. Consider checking local fishing regulations if you plan on dropping lines along the way.

Approach and Arrival at Marlboro, NY
As you near Marlboro, maintain your awareness for the port entrance markers guiding you towards the town docks. Marlboro has beautiful waterfront access, and just around the corner, you can find the scenic parks along the Hudson.

Conclusion
This delightful and safe route along the Hudson River from Alpine to Marlboro is perfect for recreational boaters looking for beautiful scenery, history, and potential shelter spots. Always keep your navigational apps like Savvy Navvy handy for real-time chart updates and route planning adjustments. Ultimately, prioritize safety while enjoying the journey through one of the United States' most picturesque waterways.