Pilotage Plan: Castleton on Hudson, NY to Marlboro, NY
Departure Point: Castleton on Hudson, NY
Your journey begins at the charming Castleton on Hudson, a small town with a rich maritime history. Before setting sail, it's wise to check the latest weather forecasts and any advisories for the Hudson River, as conditions can vary, especially with changing tides.
Section 1: The Route Overview
Leaving Castleton on Hudson, you will navigate south along the Hudson River. The trip can be undertaken in a variety of boats, from small motorboats to larger sailing vessels, though it's particularly suitable for experienced boaters familiar with river conditions. The distance to Marlboro is approximately 13 nautical miles and should take about 2-3 hours, depending on your vessel's speed and conditions.
Section 2: Navigational Aids and Hazards
As you head south, keep an eye out for key navigational aids along your route. The Hudson River has plenty of buoys and markers indicating safe passage. Pay attention to the following features:
Affirmative Markers (Green and Red Buoys): These help mark the navigable channel. Always remember the "Red Right Return" rule, keeping red buoys on your right when heading upstream.
Bridges: Watch for the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge and the Mid-Hudson Bridge; both have significant clearance, but it's crucial to check air draft requirements if you are sailing with a tall mast.
Currents: The Hudson River has varying currents influenced by tide and rainfall, especially near the confluence with tributaries. Monitor your speed and adjust your heading accordingly.
Section 3: Points of Interest and Potential Shelters
Midway along the route, consider a brief stop at Saugerties, where you can enjoy Saugerties Lighthouse, a beautiful historic site. The village has facilities for fuel, food, and shelter. If weather conditions worsen, the buoyed channel of Saugerties Harbor provides a safe area to tuck in for the night.
Continuing south, you may want to cruise past Catskill— not only does it provide striking views of the Catskill Mountains, but you’ll also find amenities for food and shopping if desired.
Lastly, before approaching Marlboro, be sure to appreciate the stunning vistas along the river, including views of the Shawangunk Mountains.
Section 4: Arrival at Marlboro, NY
As you near Marlboro, the river widens, and you’ll be greeted by the quaint charm of this riverside community. Once docked, explore the local dining options and enjoy the beautiful parks along the waterfront.
Safety and Regulations
Safety remains paramount throughout your journey. Be sure to:
Useful Apps
For an enhanced navigation experience, consider using savvy navvy, which offers route planning and tide data. Other helpful tools could include NOAA Weather, Navionics, and MarineTraffic for real-time vessel tracking.
In summary, this route from Castleton on Hudson to Marlboro offers a blend of beautiful scenery, rich history, and charming communities, while emphasizing safety and proper navigation. Happy cruising!