Pilotage Plan: City of Hudson, New York to Marlboro, NY**Overview of the Trip**This journey from Hudson, NY to Marlboro, NY takes you along the magnificent Hudson River—one of the most storied waterways in the United States, teeming with historical significance and natural beauty. While the route offers delightful scenery and multiple points of interest, it’s essential to prioritize safety and be aware of local navigational features and regulations. This trip is particularly suitable for recreational boaters and those seeking a tranquil day out on the water.**Starting Point: Hudson, NY**Before setting off, familiarize yourself with the Hudson's waterfront area. Hudson has a vibrant local culture with options for dining—be sure to stock up on snacks and drinks for your journey. Next to the marina, you can also check the latest weather conditions, as they can change quickly on the river.**Route Overview**The total distance of the journey is approximately 19 nautical miles. The voyage will primarily take place on the Hudson River, a dynamic water body that occasionally presents challenges due to wind, traffic, and navigation hazards. **Key Sections of the Route**1. **Out of Hudson** As you depart from Hudson's marina, head south on the Hudson River. Pay attention to the local traffic on the river, including commercial shipping vessels and recreational boats. Keeping a vigilant lookout for large freight vessels is crucial.2. **Navigational Aids** As you travel, you will encounter the Hudson River Chart. Keep an eye on buoy markers that indicate navigation channels. The green buoys indicate the left side of the navigational channel when proceeding upstream, while red markers indicate the right side. Following these will direct you through the safest depths of the river.3. **Points of Interest** - **Saugerties Lighthouse (Approx. 7 NM to the south)**: This picturesque lighthouse is situated near the banks of the river and is a perfect place to drop anchor for a bit. Don’t forget your camera! - **Esopus Meadows**: About 10 NM from Hudson, this area features lush wetlands and is a sanctuary for local birds. It’s an excellent spot for a rest and potential wildlife viewing.4. **Shelter Bays** - **Saugerties Bay**: A preferred shelter bay for boaters, particularly if weather conditions take a turn. The bay offers good protection from winds and waves; here, you can safely anchor while monitoring weather updates. - **Marlboro Bay**: As you approach your destination, Marlboro Bay offers ample opportunities for securing your vessel. Being familiar with the area can lead to safe berthing options.**Stay Alert for Hazards**As you cruise along, be cautious of changing environmental conditions. Navigating around islands and shoals in the river can be tricky. Ensure to remain in designated channels, avoiding shallow areas. High water levels may obscure underwater hazards—keeping an updated depth sounder can help.**Local Regulations**Before setting off, make sure to review local boating regulations and any permits required for the area. Busy waters such as the Hudson may have additional guidelines that you need to adhere to for safety, including speed restrictions in certain zones.**Reaching Marlboro**As you near Marlboro, prepare for currents that can vary depending on tides and river traffic. Keep an eye on the buoy systems guiding you into the safe havens of the Marlboro waterfront. Familiarize yourself with any specific local attractions and amenities once you are ashore for a pleasant post-cruise experience.**In Summary**This trip from Hudson to Marlboro on the Hudson River is rich with beauty and opportunity for exploration. While safety should always be your first priority, the journey offers plenty of fun stops along the way. For up-to-date maps and conditions, consider using boating apps like Savvy Navvy, which provide essential information for planning your route and managing your trip. Safe travels on your adventure!