City of New York to Nyack by boat

Pilotage Plan: New York City to Nyack, NY

Departure from City of New York, NY

Your journey begins in the bustling waters of New York City, where you will leave from a notable marina. The city’s vibrant skyline offers a stunning backdrop as you set sail, but preparation is key. Before departure, check the latest weather forecasts, tide charts, and any marine advisories.

Sections of the Route

1. Navigating the Hudson River: As you exit the harbor, you’ll want to head north on the Hudson River. Pay close attention to the speed zones—many areas are regulated to protect local wildlife and maintain safety in this busy waterway. Look out for the Battery Park City, an interesting landmark; it's a fantastic spot for photos with the river and city skyline in full view.

2. Entering the Upper Bay: After navigating the initial stretch, you’ll enter the Upper Bay. Here, you must be mindful of ferry traffic and commercial vessels. Use your chartplotter or apps like savvy navvy to track your location, especially around the busy harbor entrances. Anchorages on the New Jersey side, such as the Elizabeth River, offer temporary shelter for unexpected weather.

3. Exploring Hoboken and Weehawken: As you make your way north, the swanky waterfront in Hoboken is an excellent place for a quick excursion. The waterfront stroll is delightful, with a range of eateries and parks offering great views of Manhattan.

4. Decision Point - Tappan Zee vs. George Washington Bridges: As you approach the Tappan Zee and the George Washington bridges, the river widens, offering beautiful vistas. The Tappan Zee Bridge is a significant landmark, and you may want to navigate under it for a closer look. This area also shelters you from rough waters should the weather turn unfavorable.

5. Points of Interest Along the Route: - Yonkers: As you enter Yonkers, there are marinas and parks to explore—perfect for a lunch break or stretching your legs. - Riverside Park and Untermyer Gardens: Both are visible from the river and worth a visit. They offer picturesque settings to relax and enjoy nature.

6. Arriving at Nyack: As you approach Nyack, watch for marked buoys and shallow areas. The Nyack marina and its picturesque waterfront are great for docking. The town has a charming atmosphere; perfect for dining or shopping before winding down your journey.

Hazards and Navigation Considerations:

• Tides and Currents: The Hudson River can have strong tidal currents. Pay close attention to tides, especially when planning your departure and arrival times to minimize combatting the current. Best practice is to travel a couple of hours before high tide to take advantage of the river’s flow.

• Marine Traffic: The Hudson is a busy corridor. Be vigilant for commercial traffic, especially near the bridges. Keeping a safe distance, especially from large vessels, is essential for your safety.

• Regulatory Zones: There may be areas along the route with specific regulations, such as no-wake zones, wildlife protection areas, or anchoring restrictions. Familiarize yourself with local laws, and keep a lookout for navigational markers or signage on your journey.

• Weather Hazards: If the weather turns against you—strong winds or storms—consider heading into nearby bays such as the Hoboken or Weehawken waterfronts for safety. Always have a contingency plan.

Suggested Apps: Make sure to have savvy navvy installed on your device; it's a fantastic app for navigation, providing both real-time information on tides and local hazards. Other helpful apps include Windy for weather forecasts and MarineTraffic for tracking vessels and traffic.

Conclusion:This journey from New York City to Nyack is not just a means to an end; it’s an experience filled with stunning views, the charm of small towns, and safe harbors along the famed Hudson River. This route is ideally suited for cruisers looking for an exhilarating adventure while keeping safety at the forefront. Enjoy every moment, and make some unforgettable memories on the water!