**Pilotage Plan: New York City, NY to Newburgh, NY****Route Overview** This scenic maritime journey from the bustling harbor of New York City to the tranquil Hudson Valley in Newburgh is suitable for various boaters, particularly those seeking a blend of urban and natural experiences. The trip spans approximately 60 nautical miles along the storied Hudson River, known for its vibrant landscapes and rich history. ### Departure: New York City, NY**Starting Location** You’ll begin your journey in New York City, departing from the East River or Hudson River, depending on your docking location. The area is rich with iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, which offer fantastic photo ops. **Navigational Considerations** - **Traffic**: Be mindful of heavy vessel traffic, especially ferries and tugs. Monitor the radio for any vessel calls and adhere to navigation rules to avoid collisions.- **Bridges**: The route features several bridges with varying clearance heights; be sure to confirm the height of your vessel at high tide against the clearance below the bridges.- **Regulations**: Watch for No Wake Zones around marinas and residential areas.### Leg 1: New York City to the Tappan Zee Bridge (Approx. 22 NM)**Hazards** - Shifting currents present in the Hudson can complicate navigation, especially near tidal changes.- The area around Spuyten Duyvil is known for strong currents, so be vigilant in your navigation here.**Points of Interest** - **Fort Lee Historic Park**: This site provides insight into Revolutionary War history and has a picturesque viewpoint of the skyline. A quick stop here can add an enriching element to your trip.- **The Tappan Zee Bridge**: Look up as you approach this bridge for a unique perspective of its design and engineering.### Shelter: Haverstraw BayIf the weather takes a turn, Haverstraw Bay offers a larger, sheltered area where you can safely ride out rough conditions. It’s a lovely location for a lunch stop, with picnic areas available if you’re looking to stretch your legs.### Leg 2: Tappan Zee Bridge to Newburgh (Approx. 33 NM)**Navigational Aids** - Keep an eye on the Hudson River markers, particularly for buoy positions marking the navigation channel. Yellow markers indicate caution areas or mooring fields, while red and green markers indicate safe navigation paths.- **Verrazzano Narrows Bridge**: Before reaching your destination, you’ll pass under another iconic bridge, so be sure to observe navigational heights.**Points of Interest** - **West Point Academy**: A quick diversion to view this prestigious military academy is well worth your time. The striking buildings against the river make for compelling photographs.- **Bear Mountain State Park**: Offers expansive hiking trails and beautiful landscapes. Consider spending an afternoon exploring the park if you're willing to anchor for a bit.### Arrival: Newburgh, NYAs you approach Newburgh, the landscape transitions to beautiful views of the Hudson Highlands. Be prepared for some local wind conditions as you enter the Newburgh Bay. **Local Regulations** Upon arrival, adhere to all marker guidelines and local mooring restrictions. Newburgh's waterfront has several marinas where you can dock overnight if desired, with access to local amenities and dining.### Safety and Navigation Apps To enhance your trip, consider utilizing navigation apps like **Savvy Navvy**, which provides easy navigation tools and up-to-date charts specifically for boaters. Other apps that can be helpful include:- **Navionics**: For detailed marine charts and mapping.- **Windy**: To monitor real-time conditions and forecast weather at sea.### ConclusionThis route is perfect for the boater looking to blend a bit of excitement with stunning views and peace. It offers both safety through well-marked channels and plenty of opportunities to embrace the beauty, history, and culture of the Hudson River region. Always remember that safety is paramount; monitor the weather, stay alert for other vessels, and have fun along the way!