### Pilotage Plan: City Island, NY to Staatsburg, NY#### Route OverviewEmbarking on a journey from City Island, nestled in the Bronx, to Staatsburg, across the Hudson River in Dutchess County, offers a splendid blend of scenic beauty and navigational challenges. This route is particularly suitable for intermediate to experienced boaters who are comfortable navigating both urban and rural waterways. The journey spans approximately 70 miles upriver and provides numerous opportunities for scenic stops and shelter along the way.#### Starting Point: City Island, NY**Location:** City Island is at longitude -73.7883 and latitude 40.8407. A charming maritime community, it’s well-known for its vibrant boating culture and friendly atmosphere.**Considerations:** Before setting out, check the local weather forecasts and ensure your vessel is equipped with necessary safety gear such as life jackets, flares, and a first-aid kit. ### Points of Interest & Shelters Along the Route1. **Pelham Bay Park (10 mins from City Island)** - A quick detour into Pelham Bay Park provides stunning views and a chance to explore the park's natural beauty. - **Shelter:** If storms roll in, head into the protected waters of the park.2. **Westchester Creek (an hour in)** - Navigate through Westchester Creek for a delightful glimpse of wildlife and lush surroundings. - **Shelter:** The creek offers calm waters and can be a good spot to wait out bad weather. 3. **New Rochelle Harbor (1.5 hours in)** - A vibrant harbor with the option to dock at various marinas. Stop for a meal at one of the harborside restaurants. - **Shelter:** The harbor provides ample safe docking options. 4. **Dobbs Ferry and Hastings-on-Hudson (3 hours in)** - These quaint towns along the river have lovely parks and opportunities to stretch your legs and grab a snack. - **Shelter:** Look for dockage options if the weather deteriorates.5. **Tarrytown Lighthouse (4 hours in)** - A picturesque landmark worth viewing as you cruise by. This area is also a good stopping point for photography and a stretch. - **Shelter:** Nearby Tarrytown has several marinas to consider if conditions worsen.6. **Bear Mountain State Park (5 hours from departure)** - A naturally stunning area for potential hiking and exploration. The park is accessible from the river and offers beautiful trails. - **Shelter:** The park has areas for protection against the wind and rough waves.7. **Cold Spring (6 hours in)** - A charming village along the Hudson, Cold Spring has local shops and eateries. A perfect place to refuel your crew with food and fun. - **Shelter:** Several marinas in this area can provide safe harbor if needed. 8. **Breakneck Ridge (7 hours in)** - This notable hiking locale is known for its steep climbs and breathtaking vistas. Be sure to allow time for exploration. - **Shelter:** If conditions become challenging, head back downriver for safety.9. **Arrival at Staatsburg, NY** - This quaint community is known for the beautiful Staatsburgh State Historic Site, a once-grand mansion that gives a glimpse into the past. - Docking facilities are available, making it convenient to visit local attractions.### Navigational ConsiderationsThe trip from City Island to Staatsburg requires attention to several key navigational aids:- **Markers and Buoys:** Keep an eye on the buoys and markers along the route to navigate safely, particularly around the shallow waters near marshlands.- **Tides and Currents:** Be aware of the tidal conditions in the Hudson River, which can significantly impact your speed and maneuverability.- **Local Regulations:** Be conscious of speed limits and no-wake zones, particularly near marinas and homes. Maintain a watchful eye on fishing areas, as these may have additional restrictions or active fishermen.- **VHF Radio Channels:** Monitor VHF Channel 16 for emergency communication and local updates. Always be ready to call ahead when approaching busy marinas or fishing areas.### Recommended AppsFor this journey, it’s essential to stay informed. Make sure to download apps like **SavvyNavvy**, which provides precise charts and routing information, along with weather updates. Other useful apps include **MarineTraffic** for tracking vessel movements and **Navionics** for detailed maps and sonar charts.This route is not just a means to travel; it’s an opportunity to experience the beauty of New York’s waterways while ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. Adhering to navigation principles, respecting local regulations, and being mindful of the weather will help you create memorable moments safely on the water. Happy cruising!