Pilotage Plan from New York City, NY to Leonardo, NJ
Starting Point: New York City, NY Ending Point: Leonardo, NJ Coordinates: Start - (40.774207581886, -73.850519300396); End - (40.4213333333, -74.0613333333)
Embarking from the vibrant waters of New York City offers a plethora of adventures for both to seasoned and relatively inexperienced boaters. This route, while peppered with navigational challenges, promises stunning views and safe havens along the way, making it perfect for boaters looking to explore the New Jersey coastline.
Points of Interest
As you begin your journey from NYC, you'll not only traverse beautiful waters but also encounter fascinating stops such as:
- Statue of Liberty: Just off Liberty Island, offering majestic views ideal for photo opportunities.
- Ellis Island: Another historical spot worth a brief stop.
- Sandy Hook Bay: A large natural harbor with opportunities for both shelter from inclement weather and recreational activities, including swimming and walking along the beach.
Route Overview
The route primarily involves traveling through the Upper New York Bay, then navigating around the lower New York Harbor before heading north along the coastline.
Section 1: Upper New York Bay
- Start your trip in the Upper New York Bay, keeping the Statue of Liberty to your port side. The bay can be busy; watch for large vessels, especially ferries and tour boats.
- Navigational Aids: Pay close attention to the various buoys marking safe passage. The Liberty Island Light is a reference point for direction.
Section 2: Lower New York Harbor
- Next, steer toward the lower harbor, keeping a cautious eye out for ship traffic heading in and out of Newark Bay and other surrounding ports.
- Hazards: Strong currents can occur in this region. It's crucial to time your passage against the tide to ensure safety and maneuverability.
Section 3: Sandy Hook Bay
- After navigating the harbor, head toward Sandy Hook Bay. This area is an excellent sheltering spot should weather conditions diminish. Sandy Hook offers transient dockage at the Sandy Hook Marina, where you can take a break or wait out inclement weather.
- Local Attractions: Explore Sandy Hook National Park for its serene beaches and walking trails. It's a delightful way to stretch your legs.
Section 4: Keyport & Raritan Bay
- Continuing south, as you navigate into Raritan Bay, keep the coastline of New Jersey to starboard. Keyport is an ideal stop, with plenty of dining options and local charm.
- Navigational Aids: Be mindful of the Raritan River's mouth, where the inlet can be foggy and tricky. Depth chart features can help you steer clear of shallow areas.
Section 5: Final Approach to Leonardo
- Your final leg will take you through the calm waters leading up to Leonardo. Keep the channel well-marked as you approach the marina area.
- Hazards: Watch for private mooring fields – they are abundant, and it's important to avoid anchoring in restricted areas.
Safety Considerations
- Weather Monitoring: Always check the weather before departure. A good app like Savvy Navvy will help track changing conditions while on the water.
- VHF Radio use: Keep an operational VHF radio to stay abreast of marine communications.
- Safety Gear: Ensure you have all necessary safety equipment aboard, including life jackets, flares, and a first-aid kit.
- Stay Alert: Be mindful of both commercial and recreational traffic, especially in busier harbors and at popular docks.
Conclusion
This route from NYC to Leonardo, NJ, balances adventure and safety while providing numerous points of interest and potential shelter spots along the way. It suits boaters who enjoy a scenic cruise and are comfortable navigating in varying conditions. Equip yourself with the right knowledge, and this trip will be a fulfilling exploration of New Jersey's lush coastline and rich maritime history.
