Pilotage Plan from Brooklyn, NY to Laurence Harbor, NJ
Route Overview:Embarking from Brooklyn, NY, you are set to sail towards the beautiful shores of Laurence Harbor, NJ. This journey spans roughly 15 nautical miles across the Upper New York Bay and Raritan Bay, offering a delightful mix of urban landscapes and tranquil waters. This route is particularly suitable for experienced recreational boaters who appreciate a blend of city and nature while navigating open water.
Departure from Brooklyn, NY
Starting Point: Brooklyn, NY (Lat: 40.6085, Lon: -73.9181)
- Navigational Aids:
- The Brooklyn Navy Yard and the Manhattan skyline can be landmarks to orient yourself. - Be sure to keep an eye on local traffic patterns, as the waters near the Brooklyn Bridge can be busy with ferries and tankers.
- Points of Interest:
- Before departure, consider stopping at the Brooklyn waterfront parks for views of Lower Manhattan. - If time allows, explore the historic streets of DUMBO and grab a bite.
Navigating to Upper Bay and into Raritan Bay
As you leave Brooklyn, charting a course northwest across Upper New York Bay, heading toward the Arthur Kill will be your initial segment.
- Hazards and Navigation Tips:
- Keep clear of the heavy shipping channels that utilize the Kill van Kull and Arthur Kill areas. - Be cautious of Staten Island Ferry routes as you pass near the Staten Island waterfront. - Visibility can be reduced in fog, so maintaining radar and listening to weather updates is essential.
Entering Raritan Bay
After navigating through Upper New York Bay, you'll enter Raritan Bay, known for its relatively calmer waters but still can be subject to weather changes.
Sandy Hook Bay to the north
can offer excellent shelter should conditions worsen. It’s also a great spot to anchor and enjoy its sandy beaches. -
, located further to the south, also provides safe harbor and amenities.
- Navigational Aids:
- From the entrance of Raritan Bay, be sure to follow the marked channel buoys to avoid shallow waters. Pay particular attention to the
as a navigational reference.
Approaching Laurence Harbor, NJ
As you near your final destination, the scenic view of Laurence Harbor unfolds.
- Points of Interest:
- The local waterfront offers beautiful parks ideal for a break after your stint at sea. - You can anchor for a while, enjoy the views, or take a short trip to local diners for fresh seafood.
- Final Approach:
- Make sure to check local boating regulations as you approach the harbor. There may be slow speed zones and restrictions, especially during busy summer months.
Safety Considerations
- Weather can change quickly, especially over broader stretches of open water. Always have updated forecasts and be prepared to alter your route if necessary. Bringing extra supplies and life vests is crucial.
- It's highly advisable to utilize navigation apps for accurate routing. I recommend Savvy Navvy, which provides detailed marine charts, tide information, and real-time data.
- Always inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time.
This trip from Brooklyn to Laurence Harbor is well suited for seasoned boaters who thrive on the connectivity of coastal beauty and urban surroundings. With ample points of shelter, picturesque landscapes, and a blend of rich nautical heritage, this route offers an engaging, safe, and memorable experience on the water. Happy boating!
