Pilotage Plan: Bowers, Delaware to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Overview This journey from Bowers, Delaware, to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is not just a means to traverse the water; it’s an incredible way to experience the scenic beauty of the Delaware River, the charm of small waterways, and some fascinating coastal landmarks along the way. This plan suits experienced pleasure craft operators who value safety and wish to enjoy scenic views and local culture.
Starting Point: Bowers, Delaware
- Coordinates: (Long: -75.3966666667, Lat: 39.0585)
- Considerations: Bowers is mostly known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to nature. Before setting out, ensure that your vessel is adequately fueled and equipped with safety gear.
Notable Points of Interest
- Bowers Beach: A lovely stop with historical relevance—particularly for crabbing and fishing enthusiasts. This beach area offers a perfect spot to stretch your legs and possibly grab a bite to eat before the journey begins.
Route Overview
- Primary Navigation: Depart from Bowers and initiate your journey by heading northwest at a safe speed, keeping a vigilant eye on navigational aids.
Key Landmarks along the Route1. DuPont Nature Center: Located close to the mouth of the Murderkill River, this is a wonderful stop for nature lovers. Here you can explore local marine life and enjoy scenic views of the tidal marshes.
2. Murderkill River: As you pass by, it’s an excellent natural section to observe migratory birds and local wildlife.
3. Chesapeake and Delaware Canal Entrance: While you won’t traverse the canal directly on this route, it’s an essential navigational landmark. Ensure to adhere to the No Wake Zones and respect local vessel traffic.
Navigational Aids
- Buoys and Markers: Pay close attention to the buoys as you navigate through the river. They indicate channel depth and direction; missing these can lead to shallow areas where grounding is a risk.
- Cape May Lighthouses: As you approach the confluence of the Delware River and Bay, the lighthouses serve as excellent visual navigational markers, particularly at dusk.
- Philadelphia Waterways: As you approach Philadelphia, stay clear of the ferry routes and barge traffic, especially in the Schuylkill River area.
Shelter Options in Case of Bad Weather
- Reedy Point Bar: Located near the Delaware River, in adverse weather conditions, it can provide a sheltered place to wait out storms.
- Coffin’s Beach & Slaughter Beach: If conditions turn sour, these spots are localized and can provide temporary safe havens.
Regulations to Adhere To
- Local Speed Limits: Keep to specified speed limits, particularly in populated areas and near wildlife preserves.
- No Wake Zones: Be mindful of these areas as they are present along many parts of the river, particularly around marinas and waterfront properties.
- Fishing Licenses: If you’re intending on fishing, ensure your fishing license is valid within Delaware waters and comply with local regulations regarding size and creel limits.
End Point: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Coordinates: (Long: -75.15097325523, Lat: 39.887164212736)
- Considerations: Philadelphia offers a plethora of activities, from historical landmarks such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall to a bustling local dining scene.
Recommended Boating Apps While navigating these waters, it’s essential to have reliable applications for both navigation and local engagement. I'd recommend using Savvy Navvy, which provides excellent route planning and navigational aids. Other useful apps include Navionics for mapping and weather updates, and MarineTraffic for vessel tracking.
In conclusion, this journey from Bowers to Philadelphia is designed for the safety-conscious boater wanting to enjoy the beauty and cultural significance of the Delaware River. With careful planning and adherence to rules, your adventure will be both safe and enriching. Safe travels!
