### Pilotage Plan: Barnegat Light, NJ to Staten Island, NY#### OverviewThis journey from Barnegat Light, New Jersey to Staten Island, NY offers a fantastic mix of scenic views, interesting landmarks, and safe harbors for boaters. Ideal for the seasoned cruiser as well as those with moderate experience, this route allows vessels to navigate through various waterways while adhering to safety precautions and mariner regulations.### Route Description#### Starting Point: Barnegat Light, NJ- **Coordinates**: Latitude 39.7523, Longitude -74.1151- **Vessel Preparation**: Before departure, ensure your vessel is in shipshape, stocked with safety gear, navigational tools (charts and GPS), and weather updates.#### Departure from Barnegat Light- Check the local weather conditions. The Barnegat Bay can be tricky, with changing tides and winds. It's also a semi-restricted area, so keep an eye on navigational aids such as buoys marking the channel and shallow spots.#### Barnegat Bay to Manahawkin Bay- **Distance**: Approximately 6 nautical miles- **Notable Hazards**: Look out for shoals off the northern tip of Long Beach Island. Maintain a close watch on your depth sounder.- **Sheltering Options**: Manahawkin Bay is a protected area where you can anchor or seek shelter if conditions worsen.#### Manahawkin Bay to Little Egg Harbor- **Distance**: 8 nautical miles- As you navigate towards Little Egg Harbor, you’ll want to be aware of the various commercial vessels. The harbor itself is expansive, offering several marinas and safe spots to refuel and rest.- **Local Attractions**: If time allows, consider a short excursion to the Tuckerton Seaport, where you can immerse yourself in local maritime history and culture.#### Little Egg Harbor to Great Egg Harbor Inlet- **Distance**: 5 nautical miles- The entrance to Great Egg Harbor Inlet can get tricky with currents, especially during flooding tides. Be vigilant and consult navigational aids.- **Sheltering Options**: The inlet provides shelter from rough seas and has areas ideal for dropping anchor if necessary.#### Great Egg Harbor Inlet to Atlantic City- **Distance**: 10 nautical miles- Atlantic City is a bustling hub and can be a great stop if you're looking for entertainment, dining, or even a night out on the town before heading to Staten Island.- **Navigational Considerations**: Pay attention to the heavy commercial traffic in this area, including ferries and fishing boats.#### Crossing the Raritan Bay- **Distance**: Approximately 10 nautical miles from Sandy Hook to Staten Island- Before making this crossing, assess the weather conditions carefully as the Raritan Bay can change quickly. Look out for large commercial ships accessing the Port of New York and New Jersey.- **Important Aids**: Make sure to identify major markers such as the Sandy Hook Lighthouse and other buoys as points of reference.### Arrival at Staten Island, NY- **Coordinates**: Latitude 40.5428, Longitude -74.1398- Once you’ve arrived in Staten Island, you have several options for docking. The Staten Island Ferry Terminal offers amenities, while smaller marinas around the island serve as safe havens and places for exploration.### Final Considerations- **Weather Monitoring**: Utilize both VHF radio and apps like Weather Underground for real-time weather updates. Keep savvy navvy, which offers routing and live weather data, handy for navigational support.- **Local Regulations**: Ensure adherence to all local boating regulations, such as speed limits and no-wake zones. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the New York Harbor regulations since they can be stringent.- **Safety Equipment**: Ensure life jackets are properly stowed and accessible, fire extinguishers are in working order, and a first-aid kit is onboard.This route from Barnegat Light to Staten Island provides a blend of safety and adventure as you traverse diverse waters while ensuring that any unexpected changes in the weather or navigational challenges can be easily managed. Happy cruising!