Atlantic Highlands to Brooklyn by boat

Pilotage Plan: Atlantic Highlands, NJ to Brooklyn, NY

Introduction:Embarking on a boat trip from Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, to Brooklyn, NY, is an exciting journey that traverses picturesque waterways, bustling harbors, and scenic views of the New York City skyline. This route is ideally suited for experienced boaters looking for a unique blend of exploration and urban culture, perfect for weekend getaways or day trips. The cruise offers safe harbors, notable landmarks, and a chance to enjoy the marine environment while focusing on navigation and safety.

Starting Point: Atlantic Highlands, NJLocated at coordinates -74.02, 40.4183, Atlantic Highlands is a charming spot with a rich maritime history and easy access to the Raritan Bay. Be aware of potential traffic from commercial vessels and recreational boaters as you begin your journey.

Notable Points of Interest:

• Sandy Hook Bay: Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to navigate through Sandy Hook Bay, which is ideal for sheltering in case of sudden weather changes.
• Sandy Hook National Park: A natural area ripe for hikes and exploring beautiful beaches, it’s a good spot for a break and some outdoor activities.
• The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge: Iconic and majestic, this bridge marks the entry point to New York Harbor. Make sure to capture photos as you approach!

Bays for Shelter:1. Sandy Hook Bay: In addition to being a picturesque cruising ground, Sandy Hook Bay offers various sheltered locations where you can anchor or dock if the weather becomes unfavorable. The northern part near the Sandy Hook lighthouse is particularly calm.2. Lower New York Bay: Another potential anchorage if needed is along the southern part of Lower New York Bay, which can provide refuge from strong winds and rough seas.

The Route:The journey will take you south from Atlantic Highlands, navigating through Raritan Bay, before heading east along the shores of Sandy Hook. You’ll follow the approach to New York Harbor, avoiding shipping channels when possible.

1. Departing Atlantic Highlands: Sail directly south toward the entrance of Sandy Hook Bay. Monitor your chartplotter as you traverse the bay, keeping an eye on the Sandy Hook channel markers, which play a crucial role in safely guiding your navigation.

2. Entering Sandy Hook Bay: As you enter the bay, maintain a vigilant lookout for recreational craft and the occasional ferry service. This area can become busy, especially on weekends. Follow all navigational aids as they are critical for safe passage.

3. Navigating past Sandy Hook: Continue eastward past Sandy Hook and head towards the Lower New York Bay, where you’ll encounter vessels heading into the busy shipping lanes. Ensure you have a current chart or an app like Savvy Navvy for real-time updates on maritime traffic.

4. Approaching Brooklyn: As you enter the bustling New York Harbor, be mindful of the strong tidal currents that can be experienced in these waters, especially near the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. When nearing the Brooklyn coastline, stay alert to the recreational hazards and follow the designated navigation rules entering anchorage areas.

Navigational Aids and Considerations:

• Chartplotters and GPS: Utilize electronic navigation aids and ensure they are updated with the latest data for the area. Incorporate Savvy Navvy as a supplementary resource.
• Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with speed limits and no-wake zones in urban areas, particularly around Brooklyn. The congestion created by ferries and commercial vessels requires attentiveness.
• Weather Monitoring: Stay informed of weather conditions before and during your trip, as they can change rapidly. Apps or marine radio broadcasts can provide real-time updates.

Conclusion:This beautiful and navigable route from Atlantic Highlands to Brooklyn offers both safety and enjoyment for the mariner. The mixture of adventure, urban allure, and natural beauty ensure a memorable experience as you cruise toward the iconic landscape of New York City. With careful planning, keen attention to navigational aids, and an appreciation of local hotspots, this trip promises a rewarding day on the water. Enjoy your voyage!