Brooklyn to Rumson by boat

Pilotage Plan: Brooklyn, NY to Rumson, NJ

Starting Point: Brooklyn, NY

• Coordinates: 40.6085, -73.9181666667

Ending Point: Rumson, NJ

• Coordinates: 40.378, -74.0125

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Overview of the Route

The journey from Brooklyn to Rumson spans approximately 20 nautical miles, providing a perfect mix of urban beauty and scenic vistas. This trip is suitable for recreational boaters with moderate experience, as it features navigable waters with some dynamic elements like currents and boat traffic.

Safety Considerations

Before setting off, it’s crucial to check the weather forecast, current tidal conditions, and navigation aids. Be aware of potential changes in weather as the New Jersey coast can be unpredictable. Ensure you have life jackets for all passengers, a first-aid kit, and flares are on board. It's advisable to monitor VHF channel 16 for emergency communications and local traffic updates.

Route Highlights

1. Gowanus Bay: As you depart from Brooklyn, one of your first sights will be Gowanus Bay. While it's usually busy with industrial activity, it’s important for navigation. Avoid getting too close to the shipping channels and watch out for commercial vessels.

2. New York Harbor: Entering the main part of New York Harbor, you'll encounter the Statue of Liberty on your starboard side. This iconic landmark offers a perfect photo opportunity if the conditions permit a short stop. Stay within designated channels and heed buoy markers to ensure safe navigation through busy traffic.

3. Hoboken and Weehawken: Continuing past the NYC skyline, you’ll approach Hoboken and Weehawken. The waterfront parks here provide a great spot to enjoy a break if you need a little respite. Keep in mind that navigation here can be tricky due to strong currents, so maintain a careful watch on your speed and direction.

4. Upper New York Bay: As you navigate the Upper New York Bay, be on the lookout for the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, a majestic view. This area can experience significant tides and currents, so adjust your speed accordingly, particularly when crossing.

5. Raritan Bay: On your approach into Raritan Bay, you’ll encounter more secluded waters. If the weather changes unexpectedly, this area has some bays where you can take shelter, particularly in the vicinity of Sandy Hook. It’s a lovely spot to rest and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you, with views of sandy beaches.

Notable Points of Interest

• Sandy Hook: The sandy shores of Sandy Hook offer beaches and nature trails, ideal for a quick land excursion if you choose to stop. Keep in mind that it can get busy, especially during the summer months.

• Aberdeen Lake: As you proceed towards Rumson, you can navigate towards Aberdeen Lake. This inshore area is well-suited for shelter from adverse weather conditions, with plenty of cover offered by local trees and shorelines.

Navigation Aids

Be attentive to the following navigation aids throughout your trip:

• Lighthouses: There are several lighthouses marking the channels, including the Sandy Hook Lighthouse. These are invaluable for maintaining your course as well as estimating your position.
• Buoys: Various buoys in Raritan Bay help indicate the safest channels to travel through. It’s essential to interact with them wisely, remembering that crossing within a marked channel is standard practice to avoid grounding.

Local Regulations

Ensure you’re adhering to local speed limits, especially near marinas and recreational zones, where the speed limit may drop significantly. Be aware that certain areas along the coastline, particularly near wildlife preserves or marinas, may have restricted access or specific regulations to protect the local environment.

Conclusion

This pilotage plan from Brooklyn to Rumson offers a delightful and scenic journey showcasing iconic landmarks while maintaining a focus on safety. Make sure to download useful navigation apps like savvy navvy to stay updated on tides and currents, along with Navionics and Waterway Guide for additional resources on navigation.

Anchoring in beautiful bays, enjoying unique sights, and engaging with the vibrant life of the New York Harbor makes this route especially rewarding. Remember, planning and vigilance are key, ensuring you and your crew enjoy a safe and unforgettable boating experience.