Beach Haven to Berkeley Township by boat

Pilotage Plan: Beach Haven, NJ to Berkeley Township, NJ

Overview
This journey from Beach Haven to Berkeley Township is perfect for experienced boaters seeking a blend of safety, stunning scenery, and opportunities for enjoyable stops along the way. Distinctively suited for recreational cruising, this route navigates through the serene waters of the Barnegat Bay, providing opportunities to explore local wildlife, historical sites, and charming waterfront towns. Heavy emphasis is placed on safety, with considerations for weather and navigation throughout.

Route Details

Starting Point: Beach Haven, NJ
Coordinates:Long/Lat -74.2484, 39.5589

• Beach Haven acts as an excellent launch pad due to its protected harbor, ample facilities, and proximity to numerous amenities. Make sure to check local tide schedules and weather forecasts before departure.

Leg 1: Beach Haven to Little Egg Harbor
Distance:Approximately 8 miles

• As you depart, head north from Beach Haven across the open waters of Barnegat Bay. Pay close attention to navigational markers, specifically the Little Egg Inlet, which is well marked but can present challenges with currents. The Little Egg Harbor Bayserves as a natural stopping point if conditions worsen.

Notable Points of Interest:
Fantasy Island Amusement Park:A fun, family-friendly attraction in Beach Haven that can serve as a pre-departure visit to get everyone excited.

Hazards:

• Keep an eye out for shallow waters and shifting sand bars, particularly around the inlet and the southern end of Long Beach Island. Adhere to local speed limits to prevent accidents and minimize wake.

Leg 2: Little Egg Harbor to Barnegat Bay Inlet
Distance:Approximately 5 miles

• Moving onward, you'll wind through the Little Egg Harbor Canal. This route is renowned for its serene beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities, including birdwatching in the salt marshes—be cautious of local fishing boats and crab traps.

Sheltering Opportunities:
Pine Beach:If conditions become unfavorable, Pine Beach is a nearby sheltered area you can access for a brief respite.

Navigational Aids:

• Look for the distinct channel markers and navigation bouys, especially between Little Egg Harbor and Barnegat Inlet. These aids guide you through the main navigation channels and avoid unintended grounding.

Leg 3: Barnegat Bay Inlet to Berkeley Township
Distance:Approximately 10 miles

• As you approach Barnegat Inlet, you should navigate carefully due to tidal currents. This section features beautiful views and is often frequented by sportfishing boats—staying vigilant here is crucial.

Noteworthy Landmarks:
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park:A fantastic stop if you fancy a look at this iconic lighthouse. The surrounding area features hiking paths and interpretation of local ecology.

Final Approaches:

• Navigate carefully through the channel as you enter Berkeley Township, continuing to pay attention to channel markings and local traffic. Be mindful of anchorage areas and respect local regulations when mooring or anchoring.

Safety Recommendations
Weather Monitoring:Check local weather conditions, particularly wind speeds and projected storms, which are critical in the optimum safety of your trip. Use reliable apps such as Savvy Navvy for accurate forecasting.
Local Regulations:Be aware of boating regulations specific to Barnegat Bay and surrounding waters, including speed limits and protected zones.
Equipment Check:Ensure you have a fully equipped safety kit on board, including life jackets, flares, and first aid supplies.

Conclusion
This elegant passage through Barnegat Bay presents an ideal journey for relaxed, yet vigilant boaters. With opportunities for shelter, engaging attractions, and breathtaking views, this route combines the thrill of adventure with essential safety measures to ensure a memorable experience on the water. Enjoy your voyage, and remember to respect the waters and nature around you.