Burlington to Colchester by boat

Pilotage Plan: Burlington, Vermont to Colchester, Vermont

Overview

This beautiful trip from Burlington to Colchester on Lake Champlain provides an excellent opportunity for both novice and experienced boaters to explore the scenic waters while safely navigating a straightforward route. The journey is approximately 10 nautical miles, depending on the chosen route, and showcases the stunning views of the Adirondacks to the west and the pristine shorelines of Vermont.

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Route Description

Starting Point: Burlington, VT (44.5012, -73.25535)

Begin your journey at the Burlington City Docks, which offer convenient access to the marina. It’s crucial to check the water levels and local conditions before departure, as Lake Champlain experiences varying water levels through the seasons.

Navigational Aids to be Aware of:

• Burlington Breakwater Light: This navigational aid marks the end of the breakwater extending into Lake Champlain. It’s a prominent landmark and an important point of reference as you set out to open waters.

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Initial Course:

Travel northeast from the Burlington docks. As you depart, keep a keen eye on your surroundings and oncoming vessels. The navigable channel to follow is fairly clear, but river currents and wind can temporarily affect your heading.

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Points of Interest Along the Route:

1. Burlington Harbor: Just southwest of the main channel, this area is known for its vibrant boating community. Consider a stop at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum located a bit further south in Vergennes if time allows.

2. Thompson’s Point: As you approach the middle of your journey, watch for this striking point extending into the lake. A small beach area here is perfect for a quick dip or enjoying a picnic with family and friends.

3. Malletts Bay: After passing Thompson’s Point, you will soon reach Malletts Bay. This large bay is an excellent place for shelter if weather conditions turn unfavorable. The bay is also a popular area for recreational activities; it features opportunities for paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing.

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Navigational Considerations

As you approach Colchester, be mindful of the following navigational aids and hazards:

• Red and Green Markers: Ensure you stay within the marked channel, respecting local buoy signals. This is especially critical near rumble strips and shallow water areas.
• Colchester Point: This can sometimes create tidal currents, so steering clear from the rocky shores and keeping your distance is advisable.

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Ending Point: Colchester, VT (44.5477, -73.2187)

Your destination, the Colchester Town Docks, is situated on the western side of the point. It’s critical to approach the docks with caution, as there can be heavy boat traffic during weekends. When navigating into the harbor, stay between the marked buoys and be aware of the speed limit in the no-wake zones.

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Safety Tips:

• Ensure to always wear life jackets while underway.
• Keep a full weather check before heading out; if storms are expected, consider rescheduling.
• Always have communication devices like VHF radio and cell phones on board.
• It is prudent to have a solid understanding of the boating regulations according to Vermont laws and local ordinances.

Recommended Boating Apps:Aside from conventional charts, consider using:

• Savvy Navvy for real-time navigation and weather updates,
• Navionics for plotting routes and accessing detailed charts,
• Windy for real-time weather conditions.

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Embarking on this trip from Burlington to Colchester provides an incredible opportunity for relaxation and adventure, all while navigating safely through the scenic waterways of Lake Champlain. The range of natural beauty, historical points of interest, and safe harbors makes it a rewarding journey for boaters of all skill levels. Remember, preparation and caution are key to ensuring a fantastic experience out on the water.