### Pilotage Plan: New York City, NY to Guilford, CT#### OverviewEmbarking on a boat trip from the bustling City of New York to the charming town of Guilford, Connecticut presents not only a scenic journey but also the exciting opportunity to experience the coastal beauty of the Long Island Sound. This route is particularly suitable for intermediate to advanced boaters, as it traverses various waterways and offers the chance to navigate through heavily trafficked areas while enjoying picturesque views.---#### Departure: City of New York, NY**Starting Point:** Depart from the dock at approximately coordinates **(-73.8505, 40.7742).** New York City is known for its stunning skyline and vibrant harbor, serving as a perfect launch for your adventure. **Safety Advisory:** Before leaving, ensure all safety equipment is in compliance with local and federal regulations. Life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and a first-aid kit should be on board.---#### Route Description**1. Navigating the East River:**- **Distance:** Approximately 6 nautical miles.- Head northeast through the East River, keeping clear of the busy commercial vessels. Pay attention to the Florence and Whitestone Bridges, which mark navigational checkpoints.- Keep an eye out for navigational buoys that guide the channel and always be wary of strong currents and winds in this area.**2. Throgs Neck to Long Island Sound:**- As you exit the East River, you’ll pass through the Throgs Neck Bridge. Monitor your speed and maintain a safe distance from other vessels.- Upon reaching the Long Island Sound, you’ll experience a gradual transition into a wider, more open waterway. This area can have strong currents, so keep your vessel steady.**3. Points of Interest Along Long Island Sound:**- **Manhasset Bay:** A perfect spot to pause and enjoy some shelter from inclement weather if necessary. There are options for dining and relaxation here, making it a great rest stop.- **Northport:** Known for its charming waterfront and quaint shops, perfect for a brief excursion or a picnic.**4. Continuing towards Guilford:**- Follow the Long Island Sound northeast toward Guilford, navigating between protective buoys marking the channel. Look for **Green and Red spar buoys** which indicate safe passage.- **Milford Harbor:** A favorable location to retreat if the weather turns sour. This harbor offers well-marked entry points and a sheltered anchorage.---#### Arrival: Guilford, CT**Destination Coordinates:** Guilford is located at approximately **(-72.7165, 41.25485).** Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by quaint colonial houses and an alluring shoreline, with the Guilford Town Green being a notable landmark.**Local Insights:** The picturesque town offers opportunities for local attractions, such as the Guilford Art Center and picturesque beaches, well-suited for those wishing to explore the land after their journey.---#### Navigational Aids and Considerations- **Charts and Navigational Aids:** Utilize reliable charts available both digitally and in print—having paper charts on board can be essential should electronic devices fail.- **VHF Radio:** Regularly monitor Channel 16 for marine communications. Notifying other vessels of your position is crucial for safety in crowded waters.- **Weather:** Always have a weather app or marine weather radio handy. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Sound, so be prepared with contingency plans for sudden shifts.---#### Recommended Boating AppsIn addition to marine charts, consider utilizing apps like:- **Savvy Navvy:** Excellent for planning and navigating with real-time weather updates and route suggestions based on your boat's characteristics.- **Navionics**: Provides extensive maps and chart data.- **Windy**: For detailed weather patterns and wind conditions.#### ConclusionThis route from New York City to Guilford, CT, perfectly combines adventure, beautiful scenery, and safe harbor options, making it an enjoyable experience for boaters looking to explore New England's coastal beauty. The mix of navigational challenges and picturesque stopping points ensures that you will have a memorable and safe journey. Always prioritize safety on the water and enjoy the experience!