City of New York to Greenwich by boat

Pilotage Plan from New York City, NY to Greenwich, CT

Overview

This route from the bustling shores of New York City to the serene waters of Greenwich, Connecticut, invites boaters to experience a unique blend of urban skyline and coastal charm. This journey is ideal for intermediate to experienced boaters, given the potential for varying weather conditions and busy urban waters.

Starting Point: New York City, NY

Coordinates: -73.850519300396, 40.774207581886 Setting off from the docks near Manhattan offers boaters a chance to navigate past iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Before departure, ensure that you check both the weather and tide tables, as strong currents can be prevalent near the mouth of the Hudson.

Route Highlights & Points of Interest

1. The Upper New York Bay: - Keep an eye out for the numerous ferries and cargo ships in this busy waterway. - Notable sights include Governor’s Island and the Battery Park waterfront. - Shelter Options: If weather conditions turn unfavorable, consider taking refuge in the calm waters of Upper New York Bay or in the East River by heading toward the Brooklyn Bridge area.

2. Hells Gate: - As you make your way towards Astoria, you'll navigate through Hells Gate, a notorious tidal strait. It's crucial to time your passage with slack tides for safe navigation. - This area is a great spot for nature enthusiasts, with birdwatching opportunities along the marshlands.

3. Long Island Sound: - Once you’ve cleared Hells Gate, you’ll enter Long Island Sound, a wide expanse of water that offers both beautiful scenery and a comparatively safe passage. - Look for navigational aids including buoys marking the safe channels. Marks to note include the red and green "can" and "nun" buoys indicating safe water routes.

4. Norwalk Islands: - As you approach the Norwalk region, a chain of small islands offers picturesque views and great opportunities for stopping along the way. - Shelter Options: Norwalk Harbor is a well-protected area where you can anchor or dock at marinas if weather turns inclement. Try the Norwalk Cove Marina for amenities and hospitality.

5. Arriving in Greenwich: - Once you reach Greenwich, you’ll navigate through Byram Cove and up to the Indian Harbor, where you can find the Greenwich Yacht Club. - The town is known for its rich history and upscale ambiance, providing a perfect ending to your nautical journey.

Navigational Considerations

• Tides and Currents: The major water bodies you’ll navigate have significant tidal movement. Familiarize yourself with tidal charts and plan sailing times accordingly to minimize struggles against the current, especially around Hells Gate and into the Sound.
• Regulations: It’s important to respect local regulations including speed limits in congested areas, particularly around marinas and residential zones. Maintain a safe distance from commercial traffic.
• Weather Monitoring: Safety is the top priority. Regularly check weather apps and forecasts, and monitor real-time updates for the Sound and its adjoining waters.

Recommended Boating Apps

Staying well-informed can enhance your boating experience significantly. Consider using:
• Savvy Navvy: An excellent app for routing and safe navigation.
• Windy: For comprehensive weather forecasts and updates.
• Navionics: Great for detailed charts and navigational aids directly on your device.

This pilotage plan not only offers a scenic route from New York City to Greenwich but also underscores the importance of safety and preparation while enjoying the waters. Embrace the journey, the urban vistas, the natural beauty, and the quaint charm of Greenwich await you!