City of Glen Cove to Staten Island by boat

Pilotage Plan: Glen Cove, New York to Staten Island, NY

Starting Point: Glen Cove, NY Coordinates: Long -73.6574, Latitude 40.8618

Your adventure begins in the quaint City of Glen Cove, which is known for its stunning waterfront and rich history. Before you set out, ensure that your navigation equipment is in proper working order and that you have all necessary safety gear on board. It’s crucial to keep an eye on the weather forecast as conditions can change quickly, especially when near the coast.

Points of Interest:

• Glen Cove Marina: A great place for a quick inspection of your vessel and enjoy a coffee while overlooking the harbor.
• Garvies Point Museum & Preserve: Consider visiting this spot before setting off if time allows. It offers fascinating exhibits and beautiful nature trails.

Route Overview:From Glen Cove, you’ll be navigating through various channels and harbors, making it a delightful experience punctuated by scenic views and charming coastal towns.

Navigational Considerations:

• In and Out of Glen Cove Creek: Take caution navigating in and out of the creek as it can be a bit narrow in parts with an average depth of around 4-6 feet.
• Buoys and Aids to Navigation: Pay close attention to the lateral buoys as you exit the creek and enter Hempstead Harbor. These guides are crucial for safe navigation across the potentially busy waters.

Split the Journey at: Hempstead Harbor Here, you can take a break and shelter if you encounter unexpected weather. The harbor is well-protected and has facilities if you need to refuel or stretch your legs. The view of the Manhattan skyline from a distance as you continue your journey is a breathtaking sight!

Next Leg to New York Harbor As you head south, you’ll traverse the open waters of Long Island Sound before entering the East River. Make sure to keep an eye on the tidal currents, which can be particularly strong in this area.

• Navigational Aids: Key visual landmarks include:
-

: One of the iconic lighthouses marking the entrance to western Long Island Sound. -

: As you approach the East River, navigate around this significant structure, keeping the southside in your view.

Accommodating Potential Hazards Be wary of commercial traffic, especially as you approach the confluence of the East River into New York Harbor. This area is bustling with boats of all types. Always maintain vigilance and communicate with other vessels using VHF radio.

As you continue, keep an eye out for ferries and cargo vessels, particularly near the Staten Island Ferry terminal, where boat traffic is intense. Ensure to have your marine navigation apps ready—Savvy Navvy is a must-have tool for real-time navigation assistance, along with other helpful apps like Navionics and Garmin ActiveCaptain.

Shelter Points En Route:

• Great Kills Harbor: This harbor on Staten Island is another safe haven when the weather deteriorates. It provides access to marinas and is known for its peaceful waters and beach access.

Final Destination: Staten Island, NY Coordinates: Long -74.1398, Latitude 40.5428

Congratulations! You’ve arrived in Staten Island, where numerous attractions await you. You can visit the Staten Island Museum or take a walk through the scenic Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden. Before you head ashore, ensure that all safety checks are made on your vessel, and don't forget to log your trip details, as it's always good practice to keep a record.

This route - while primarily focused on safety and navigation - offers ample opportunities for enjoyment, exploration, and learning. It’s suitable for intermediate boaters with experience in managing commercial traffic and changing tides, ensuring a satisfying and safe boating experience along the beautiful Long Island Sound and into the heart of New York Harbor. Always remember to prioritize safety and have fun along the way!