City of New York to Milford by boat

Pilotage Plan: New York, NY to Milford, CT

Route Overview:

This journey from the bustling City of New York to the tranquil shores of Milford, Connecticut, offers both picturesque views and numerous opportunities for safe and enjoyable boating. The trip, which stretches approximately 60 nautical miles, can take a seasoned cruiser anywhere from 6 to 8 hours, depending on vessel speed, tidal conditions, and any planned stops along the way. This route is ideal for experienced boaters who appreciate navigating busy waters while having the ability to seek shelter in well-known bays should the weather take a turn.

Section 1: Departure from New York City

Start your journey at the docks located in New York City. The bustling harbor is an exciting starting point with views of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. As you prepare to leave, check local weather forecasts and current tidal conditions. Particularly, pay close attention to the East River currents and ferry traffic, as they can be quite strong.

Navigational Aids:

• Lighthouse and Markers: Look for the Sandy Hook Light and navigational buoys that guide you through the busy shipping channels.
• Traffic Separation Schemes: Be mindful of the established shipping lanes, especially around the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.

Section 2: Heading East through Upper New York Bay

As you make your way out of the Upper New York Bay, keep a steady course towards the Raritan Bay. Here, the waters will begin to feel less urban, but be prepared for commercial shipping traffic, particularly large vessels heading to and from Newark.

Key Points of Interest:

• Liberty State Park: A perfect place to pause and take photos, offering striking views of the NYC skyline.
• Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty: Before you drift too far, don’t miss the chance to admire these iconic landmarks.

Section 3: Raritan Bay to Sandy Hook Bay

Continuing onward, you will enter Raritan Bay, and soon after, Sandy Hook Bay. This section can be sheltered, so it is ideal to anchor here should weather conditions worsen unexpectedly.

Bays for Shelter:

• Sandy Hook Bay: Offers several anchorages and is relatively protected from the east winds, making it a suitable choice for an impromptu stop.

Section 4: Crossing to Long Island Sound

Once you’ve navigated through Sandy Hook Bay, it’s time to cross over into Long Island Sound. This region is well-known for scenic views but also requires vigilance due to changing tides and varied currents.

Important Navigation Considerations:

• Mark Your Course: Utilize updates from local marine channels for current weather conditions.
• Pay Attention to Tides: Long Island Sound can experience significant tidal shifts that affect currents; adjusting your route based on these can enhance safety.

Section 5: Along the Connecticut Coast

As you travel north towards Milford, Connecticut, you may take note of the charming coastal character of the towns along the shoreline. The area can be home to recreational boating traffic, so be aware and navigate cautiously.

Points of Interest:

• Norwalk Islands: A great place for a relaxing break, offering spots for swimming, picnicking, and simply enjoying the natural beauty.
• Stratford Point: This is another significant landmark to look for as you approach the Milford area.

Section 6: Arrival in Milford, CT

As you arrive at Milford, be sure to keep your charts updated for any local marinas or dockage you may wish to utilize. Milford offers several harbors with well-marked navigational aids.

Safety and Anchoring Considerations:

• Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local speed limits and no-wake zones to ensure safety and compliance.
• Monitor Weather Until Docked: Stay alert to changing weather patterns and prepare for any sudden conditions as you navigate closer to the shore.

Final Notes

The route from New York City to Milford is not just a journey but an adventure filled with historical landmarks, beautiful coastlines, and opportunities to explore. While any boater will find joy in the sights and experiences along the way, safety should always be a priority. Ensure you have all necessary safety gear onboard, including life jackets, signaling devices, and a well-stocked first aid kit.

Before heading out, consider utilizing various boating apps that can enhance your experience and improve safety on the water:

• Savvy Navvy: For planning and navigating your route.
• Navionics: Offers great charts and navigational details.
• Windy: For accurate weather updates.

Make sure your onboard communications, such as VHF radios, are in working condition, and enjoy this captivating trip along the Connecticut shoreline!