### Pilotage Plan: Bay Head, NJ to Staten Island, NY#### Route OverviewThis journey between Bay Head, New Jersey and Staten Island, New York, presents a wonderful opportunity for boaters to experience the beauty of New Jersey’s coastline while ensuring safety and navigation are at the forefront. Spanning approximately 30 nautical miles, this route is particularly suitable for cruisers and experienced boaters who enjoy coastal waters, with plenty of shelter points and intriguing attractions.#### Trip Duration and DistanceThe expected duration for this trip can vary based on the boat's speed, but a comfortable estimate is around 3 to 5 hours of cruising time. ---### Sections of the Route1. **Departure from Bay Head** - **Coordinates:** -74.0493, 40.0657 - As you depart from Bay Head, make note of local marine traffic and fishing boats, especially in the Barnegat Bay area. Ensure you adhere to the no-wake zones to avoid disturbance. - **Shelter Opportunities:** Should conditions deteriorate, Barnegat Bay offers plenty of sheltered coves, such as the scenic Forked River, for refuge.2. **Navigating Barnegat Bay** - Head out of Bay Head, keeping a keen watch for the navigational buoys indicating safe passage. The channel through Barnegat Bay can narrow, so remain aware of your depth soundings. - Noteworthy attractions during this segment include Island Beach State Park, where you can take a moment to marvel at the untouched dunes and wildlife. It's a perfect spot for a picnic, weather permitting.3. **Leaving Barnegat Bay and Transitioning into the Ocean** - Exit Barnegat Inlet, but be prudent as the tides can create shifting conditions with strong currents. It is advisable to check tide tables and local conditions before departing. - From here, the Journey shifts into the Atlantic. Ensure you have a reliable marine GPS and navigational charts. Visibility can decrease, and fog may roll in unexpectedly, so keep your navigation lights ready.4. **Along the Coast to Staten Island** - As you continue towards Staten Island, keep a lookout for fishing vessels, especially near known fishing spots off the coast. - **Navigational Aids:** The iconic Barnegat Lighthouse signals the way, providing a striking landmark. Maintain a safe distance from larger vessels and engage with marine traffic control as needed when approaching coastal ports. - Avoid entering restricted areas around the Port of New York and New Jersey; marine traffic can be heavy, and strict protocols apply in these zones.5. **Approaching Staten Island** - Begin your approach towards Staten Island, where the Arthur Kill and Kill Van Kull channels flow into the New York Harbor. Be mindful of other vessels and shipping lanes. - The Staten Island Ferry is a notable landmark, known for its picturesque views and ferry operations, adding caution when navigating this busy area.#### Points of Interest- **Sandy Hook:** A worthy stop along the way, providing historical significance with its lighthouse and rich maritime history. Great for short excursions and explorations of the coastal environment.- **Great Kills Park:** On the southeastern shore of Staten Island, this location offers nature trails, marinas, and can be a lovely final stop before reaching your destination.---### Navigational Considerations- **Recommended Apps & Tools:** To ensure safety on your journey, utilize applications such as Savvy Navvy for real-time marine navigation and weather updates. Other useful tools might include NAVIONICS and marine weather apps to keep you informed of shifting conditions.- **Local Regulations:** Be sure to familiarize yourself with any mooring regulations in New Jersey and around Staten Island, where permits might be needed. Also, take note of fishing regulations if you plan to drop a line.#### ConclusionThis carefully curated route from Bay Head to Staten Island is ideal for boaters looking for a mix of adventure and caution. In addition to its scenic views and historical points of interest, the route is constructed to prioritize safety, ensuring you remain protected while enjoying the open water. With ample shelter points and navigational guidance, this is a trip you won’t want to miss!