Cape May to Stone Harbor by boat

Pilotage Plan: Cape May, New Jersey to Stone Harbor, New Jersey

Departure: Cape May, NJYour journey begins at the picturesque Cape May, a historic seaside town renowned for its Victorian architecture and vibrant culture. As you prepare to set sail, ensure all safety equipment is in place, and you've performed a thorough inspection of your vessel. Before leaving the harbor, check the latest weather conditions, as these can change rapidly along the New Jersey coast.

Navigational Route OverviewYour trip from Cape May to Stone Harbor spans approximately 13 nautical miles, navigating through the waters of the Delaware Bay and the intercoastal waterways, providing a scenic and enjoyable experience for boaters of various skill levels.

1. Starting Point - Cape May Inlet As you exit Cape May Harbor, you’ll head towards Cape May Inlet. Pay close attention to Buoy 16 (39° 55.04' N, 74° 53.24' W), which indicates the channel to the Atlantic Ocean. The inlet is generally safe but be aware of shifting sandbars, especially after storms. Keep an eye on the tides if you’re traveling close to low water.

2. Navigating the Cape May Harbor Make sure to follow the marked channel while savoring views of the beautiful Cape May coastline. This area can be busy, so maintain a vigilant lookout for other vessels and possible fishing activities.

3. Wildwood and Grassy Sound As you cruise northward, keep an eye out for Wildwood, a bustling destination famous for its boardwalk and amusements. Consider pausing here for a bit of fun, particularly if your crew is interested in beach activities. You can also duck into Grassy Sound for shelter from potential changing weather—this area is a perfect spot for a quick break.

4. Approaching the Inlet at Stone Harbor Continuing on your route, direct your vessel towards the Stone Harbor Inlet. Watch for Buoy 42 (39° 05.70' N, 74° 47.20' W), which marks the entrance to the inlet. Familiarize yourself with the area as it can get shallow, and local tidal currents can be strong. Navigating this inlet requires attention and care as it leads into the inter-coastal waterways.

Sheltering Points

Several sheltered areas offer refuge should the weather take a turn for the worse:

• Grassy Sound as mentioned earlier, is a safe harbor and an excellent place to ride out any rough weather with plenty of anchorage options.
• Townsend's Inlet, if you decide to veer slightly off course, provides another spot for shelter while also allowing for a quick trip into Avalon, known for its beautiful beaches.

Points of Interest

• Wildwood Boardwalk: A fantastic place to stop for food, games, and entertainment. It can add a great recreational element to your trip.
• Cape May Lighthouse: Just before leaving Cape May, take a moment to enjoy the historic lighthouse, which stands at 157 feet and is an iconic maritime landmark.
• Stone Harbor: Once in Stone Harbor, enjoy local shops, dining, and pristine beaches. The Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary is also worth a visit for nature enthusiasts.

Navigational Considerations

• Charted Waters: Have up-to-date nautical charts on board, particularly focusing on shallow areas and marked channels.
• Aids to Navigation: Use navigational aids like the numerous buoys and markers along the route to assist in your journey. Familiarize yourself with their colors and shapes to ensure proper identification.
• Tide Awareness: Monitor tidal activities as the currents can influence boat handling, especially in narrow channels and inlets.

Regulations and Safety

• Local Regulations: Be aware of local fishing regulations and respect zones where fishing is restricted. Obey any posted speed limits, especially in the vicinity of marinas and busy docks.
• VHF Channels: Keep your VHF radio tuned to channel 16 for emergency communications and channel 9 for recreational boaters.

Conclusion

This route from Cape May to Stone Harbor is not just about reaching your destination; it’s a voyage steeped in coastal beauty, lively entertainment, and serene natural views. It is well-suited for both novice and seasoned boaters. Yet, safety must always come first. With proper navigation, weather monitoring, and an appreciation for local regulations, you will be set for a memorable experience on the water.

For additional support, consider using navigation apps such as Savvy Navvy, Navionics, and OpenCPN, which can provide you with up-to-date information and support on your journey.

Happy cruising!