**Pilotage Plan: Atlantic City, NJ to Stone Harbor, NJ****Starting Point: Atlantic City, NJ** **Ending Point: Stone Harbor, NJ**This voyage from Atlantic City to Stone Harbor along the picturesque New Jersey coast offers a delightful blend of scenic views, potential wildlife encounters, and charming coastal attractions. While the journey promises a rich experience, safety remains paramount, and local knowledge is critical as you navigate through varied waters.### Departure from Atlantic City**Navigational Aids:** Begin your journey by departing from the Atlantic City Marina. Be mindful of the nearby **Absecon Inlet**, which serves as a main conduit between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). The inlet has well-marked buoys, but be vigilant for shifting sand bars.**Hazards:** Watch for vessel traffic in the vicinity, especially near the iconic **Absecon Lighthouse**. Visibility can occasionally be reduced, particularly during fog or rain, so it's imperative to keep your navigation aids close at hand. ### En Route to Stone Harbor**Route Overview:** The route generally follows the coastline, blending open waters with more sheltered inlets. As you cruise southward, dozens of small islands and tidal marshes will greet you along the way.#### Sheltering Stops1. **Beach Haven:** A good first stop, just a short detour off towards the Barnegat Bay. This charming seaside town offers numerous amenities plus a calm harbor in prevailing winds. 2. **Little Egg Harbor:** A perfect spot for taking shelter if the weather turns foul. It's also an excellent area for fishing and bird watching, with plenty of natural beauty to explore.#### Notable Landmarks and Points of Interest- **Barnegat Lighthouse State Park:** An iconic lighthouse located on Barnegat Light, this is a great place to stretch your legs. The park has beautiful views over the bay and is rich in coastal wildlife.- **Ship Bottom:** A quaint stop along Long Beach Island, providing access to shops, restaurants, and a lovely beach area. It's perfect for a quick break or leisure activities.### Arrival in Stone HarborAs you make your way to Stone Harbor, be aware of the various markers indicating marshlands and shallow waters. Approach the town by navigating through the **Intra-Coastal Waterway (ICW)** as it turns into **Grimley’s Channel**. You will notice Stone Harbor’s stunning beaches and vibrant community.**Final Approach:** Once you’re nearing Stone Harbor, keep a lookout for **marker 62** which will guide you into the channel leading directly to the marina. The area is often busy with boats, so proceed with caution. ### Navigational Considerations- **Local Regulations:** Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations, especially speed limits in certain zones where marine life is abundant or to protect property near the shore. - **Weather Monitoring:** Always monitor local weather forecasts using apps such as **Savvy Navvy**, which provides real-time updates, and essentials like wind speed and direction. Make sure your vessel is equipped with a reliable VHF radio for any emergency communications.### Recommended Apps- **Savvy Navvy:** For route planning and accurate navigation updates.- **Navionics:** Offers charts and sonar for detailed navigation.- **MarineTraffic:** Help track vessels and understand traffic around you.This route from Atlantic City to Stone Harbor is well-suited for both seasoned boaters and those looking for a leisurely day trip. The blend of open water and sheltered bays provides a unique experience. Enjoy the charm of coastal New Jersey while keeping safety as your top priority. Happy cruising!