City of New York to City Island by boat

Pilotage Plan: New York City to City Island, NY

Route OverviewEmbarking on a boat trip from New York City to City Island provides a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. This route covers approximately 12 nautical miles and is perfect for day sailors and powerboaters alike. As we navigate through bustling waterways and tranquil bays, boaters will have the opportunity to explore the amazing sights and sounds of the New York coastline while prioritizing safety and navigation.

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Section 1: Departure from New York City

Starting Point:

• Location: New York Harbor, Longitude: -73.850519300396, Latitude: 40.774207581886
• Navigational Aids: Pay attention to the Statue of Liberty, easily visible as you depart. Progress around Lower Manhattan where the busy harbor can be tricky due to the vessel traffic.

Hazards: Be aware of the ferry lanes and commercial shipping channels. Maintain a close watch on your VHF radio (Channel 16) for traffic updates and instructions from the coast guard, especially in this high-traffic area.

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Section 2: The East River

Route Considerations:Upon leaving New York Harbor, you’ll enter the East River. As you head northeast, watch out for the tides and currents; the East River can be quite swift, so timing your departure around slack tide is ideal for navigating this stretch.

Landmarks:

• Brooklyn Bridge: Navigate under this stunning architectural marvel and take a moment to appreciate the view.
• Governors Island: This is an excellent point to anchor briefly, offering a picturesque spot to enjoy the scenery of NYC's skyline.

Shelter Options: If conditions deteriorate here, consider taking shelter in the sheltered waters around Governors Island.

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Section 3: Long Island Sound

Entering the Sound:As you continue north, you will exit the East River into Long Island Sound. Watch for buoys marking the nautical channel; these are critical navigational aids. Ensure compliance with all local navigation rules, especially about speed limits in designated areas that support marine life.

Points of Interest:

• Flushing Bay: A great spot to drop anchor for a swim or to enjoy lightweight waterside dining. Just be cautious of local boat traffic and larger vessels maneuvering in this area.
• Riker's Island: A landmark on your left as you navigate through the Sound.

Navigational Safety: Rely on apps like Savvy Navvy for real-time navigation assistance, which includes buoy locations, possible shallows, and user-generated reviews on conditions in your path.

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Section 4: Approaching City Island

Final Approach:As you near City Island, drift past the beautiful marinas and yacht clubs. The waters here are more sheltered, making it a pleasant and scenic locale. Maintain a lookout for local boat traffic as you enter the small boat haven.

Navigational Aids:Be sure to note the City Island Bridge and carefully navigate under it, paying attention to clearance heights during high water.

Shelter Nearby:If the weather turns unfavorable, City Island offers several cozy inlets where you can anchor safely. The local marinas often welcome transient boaters, where you can seek a safe harbor.

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Highlights of the Trip:This journey is well-suited for recreational boaters looking for a short adventure while taking in iconic New York landmarks alongside scenic waterways. The mix of rapid cityscapes transitioning into calm small-town charm provides an enriching experience.

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Safety Notes:Always keep an eye on weather conditions before and during your trip. Download marine weather tracking apps to monitor real-time forecasts. Make sure to have life jackets readily available, and familiarize yourself with the local regulations which include no-wake zones and life vest requirements, especially in busy channels.

This route, combining safety with iconic sights, is guaranteed to entice boaters who seek the thrill of the open water while ensuring they enjoy all the protective measures available. Bon Voyage!