Atlantic City to Stone Harbor by boat

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 Stops

1. 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 Harbor

As 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!