Avalon to Wildwood by boat

Pilotage Plan: Avalon, NJ to Wildwood, NJ

Overview:Embarking on a journey from Avalon, NJ to Wildwood, NJ is a delightful experience for any boater looking to explore the beautiful waters of the New Jersey coast. This route spans approximately 10 nautical miles, providing a mix of sheltered bays, scenic views, and interesting local attractions that make it perfect for both seasoned sailors and novice boaters alike.

Section 1: Points of Interest and Shelter BaysAs you set sail from Avalon, keep an eye out for:

• Avalon Bay: This is an excellent starting point where you can enjoy calm waters before heading out. The bay offers multiple access points to explore the adjacent islands.

• Hereford Inlet: Approximately 5 nautical miles from Avalon, this inlet provides a fantastic natural harbor. Should you encounter unexpected weather changes, Hereford Inlet is a safe retreat for boats to take shelter.

• Stone Harbor: Just North of your route, Stone Harbor boasts beautiful beaches, shops, and eateries, making it an ideal spot for a quick stopover. It also features some charming nature reserves for those interested in a bit of exploration.

• Wildwood Crest: As you approach Wildwood, consider making a brief stop here. The Crest is known for its quiet beaches—perfect for a casual swim or bite to eat.

Each of these locations offers a safe harbor should weather conditions worsen, enabling you to enjoy the trip without excessive concern.

Section 2: Navigational HazardsNavigating from Avalon to Wildwood makes it essential to remain vigilant due to certain hazards:

• Shallow Waters: This area has several shallow spots, particularly near the inlets and coastal marshes. Be sure to maintain a depth sounder check, as depths can change rapidly.

• Reef Areas: Pockets of reefs exist along the route. Familiarize yourself with the local charts and pay close attention to your navigation devices—this will help in safely avoiding them.

Section 3: Navigational Aids and RegulationsEssential navigational aids to heed include:

• Leading Lights of Avalon: These lights guide you towards the entrance of Avalon and are crucial for evening navigation.

• Marker Buoys: Watch for the "Red Right Returning" Rule, ensuring red buoys are kept to your right when returning from sea. Use these buoys to guide your course, particularly when nearing inlets.

Local Regulations:When traveling through these waters, be aware of local boating regulations, including speed limits in certain areas, especially near residential coastlines and wildlife reserves. It's also a good practice to check for any specific vessel size restrictions or no-wake areas.

Recommended Boating Apps:To make your journey even more efficient and enjoyable, consider using the following apps, especially for real-time weather updates and navigational support:

• Savvy Navvy: A user-friendly app that provides great navigational charts, route planning features, and real-time weather updates, making it an invaluable tool for your journey.
• Navionics: Another excellent choice for detailed nautical charts and community-sourced updates.
• Windy: Best for checking wind conditions, especially important if you’re planning to sail.

Final Thoughts:This picturesque route from Avalon to Wildwood isn’t just a lovely day out—it’s an adventure ripe with opportunities for discovery, relaxation, and camaraderie with fellow boaters. By maintaining a focus on safety while enjoying the surroundings, you can make the most of this beautiful stretch of New Jersey’s coastline. Remember, preparation is key to ensuring a smooth journey, so take heed of the local regulations and navigate carefully. Enjoy the wave-touched journey!