### Pilotage Plan: Barnegat Light, NJ to Jersey City, NJ#### Departure: Barnegat Light, New JerseyYou’re starting your adventure at Barnegat Light, a picturesque seaside town located at the northern tip of Long Beach Island. This area is known for its historic lighthouse, sandy beaches, and the surrounding Barnegat Bay. Before setting out, ensure your vessel is equipped with the necessary safety gear including life jackets, flares, a first aid kit, and a VHF radio.#### Leg One: Barnegat Light to Barnegat InletStarting your journey, head southwest from Barnegat Light, navigating around Barnegat Bay. Pay attention to the channel markers, particularly the green and red buoys that guide you toward Barnegat Inlet. This area can be busy with other boaters, especially on weekends, so be vigilant.**Points of Interest:**- **Barnegat Lighthouse State Park**: Take a quick stop to explore the park and climb the 172 steps of the lighthouse for a spectacular view.- **Barnegat Bay**: Consider utilizing this wide body of water for shelter if weather conditions deteriorate. The Bay offers several coves where you can anchor safely.#### Leg Two: Barnegat Inlet to Little Egg Harbor InletOnce through the Barnegat Inlet, you’ll navigate southeast towards Little Egg Harbor Inlet. The waters here can become choppy depending on the tides and weather, so check local reports before proceeding. The stretch is approximately 12 miles and offers calm waters under normal conditions.**Navigational Considerations:**- **Navigation Aids**: Follow the buoys marking the shipping channel. The Little Egg Harbor Inlet is well-marked but can be tricky, so maintain a safe speed as you approach.- **Hazards**: Watch for shoals and shifting sands, especially when approaching the inlet. Local knowledge is vital to avoid grounding.**Sheltering Options:**- **Little Egg Harbor**: This extensive waterway offers numerous spots to anchor should you need to regroup or wait out inclement weather.#### Leg Three: Little Egg Harbor to Barnegat BayAfter passing through Little Egg Harbor, you will head northward, making your way back into Barnegat Bay. This leg is expansive and offers opportunities for fishing and spotting wildlife.**Points of Interest:**- **Island Beach State Park**: A short detour here could reward you with a day on the beach and the chance to hike the trails.#### Leg Four: Barnegat Bay to Toms RiverNavigating further, head up the river towards Toms River. You’ll ride the currents towards your next waypoint. Watch out for other boaters as this is a popular recreational area.**Sheltering Options:** - **Toms River Waterfront**: This area provides a safe harbor with docking options and is a good place to stop for lunch or refuel.#### Leg Five: Toms River to Raritan Bay via The Arthur KillAs you exit Toms River, transition into the Arthur Kill, heading towards Raritan Bay. This route can become busier, especially near commercial shipping lanes.**Navigational Aids:**- **Markers and Buoys**: Keep a close lookout for channel markers, as they can be sporadically placed in busy waters.- **Regulations**: Pay attention to local boating regulations, especially regarding speed limits and no-wake zones in residential areas.#### Arrival: Jersey City, New JerseyLastly, as you approach Jersey City, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking skyline views of Manhattan. This leg of your journey signifies the conclusion with thrilling sights and lively waters. **Points of Interest:**- **Liberty State Park**: A fantastic spot for history and leisure with views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Ideal for a picnic or exploring the waterfront.- **Local Amenities**: Jersey City offers numerous facilities such as restaurants, shops, and places to refuel both your vessel and yourself.#### Safety Considerations- Check the weather consistently throughout your journey, as conditions can change rapidly, particularly near inlets.- Use a reliable navigation app, such as Savvy Navvy, to help you plot your course, check tide times, and monitor any nearby hazards while cruising.This route from Barnegat Light to Jersey City provides a blend of natural beauty and diverse experiences, suitable for both novice and experienced boaters. Always prioritize safety on the water with thorough pre-departure checks and stay informed with local conditions. Happy boating!