City of New York to Riverside by boat

Pilotage Plan: New York City, NY to Riverside, CT

Route Overview

Begin your journey at the bustling City of New York, a vibrant hub with iconic skyline views, and chart your course towards the serene, picturesque Riverside, CT. This maritime adventure seamlessly blends the thrilling urban atmosphere of NYC with the tranquil charm of coastal Connecticut, making it a journey perfect for experienced boater enthusiasts while ensuring safety every step of the way.

Starting Point

• Departure: City of New York, NY
• Coordinates: (Long: -73.850519, Lat: 40.774208)
• Weather Advisory: Always check the weather forecast for strong winds, rain, or storms before departure. The Atlantic Ocean and Long Island Sound can change rapidly.

Route Sections

1.

- As you depart from the bustling harbor, be on the lookout for the

on your starboard. Avoid the restricted zones around the shipping lanes; use the colored buoys as navigational aids that define these channels. - Following the New York Harbor Channel, head northeast, being mindful of the traffic from ferries and commercial vessels.

2. Hells Gate and the East River: - Navigate the East River towards Hells Gate. This is a tidal strait known for its swift currents—timing your passage to coincide with favorable tides is crucial. - Keep a sharp eye on the Roosevelt Island Lighthouse on your port side for a reliable reference.

3. North of Astoria: - When you reach Astoria, the shoreline will begin to deepen, and you’ll notice more recreational boats. This section serves as a great place for fishing and wildlife watching. Fort Washington Park provides shelter and a lovely view of the Palisades. - If conditions suddenly worsen, heading into the Inwood Marina can offer temporary refuge.

4. Long Island Sound: - You’ll soon enter the Long Island Sound, where the scenery transforms into a stunning display of coastal beauty. Navigate towards the Connecticut coastline, being alert for day markers and buoys indicating shallower waters. - The Thimble Islands are a notable area here—with great seaside vistas and opportunities to explore quaint villages by dinghy.

5. Arriving in Riverside, CT: - As you approach Riverside, CT, keep an eye out for Greenwich Point Park, which is perfect for a brief stop and picnic—even allowing you to stretch out on the grass. - Use the GPS coordinates (Long: -73.59295, Lat: 41.022067) to navigate toward the Riverside Yacht Club if you plan to dock. Make sure to check docking availability ahead of time.

Points of Interest & Shelter Areas

• Bays Along the Way: If the weather turns inclement, consider sheltering in Manhasset Bay or Western Long Island Sound. Both are popular and have facilities.
• Local Attractions: In Riverside, you’ll find the Bruce Museum, which houses fascinating natural history exhibits. A short dinghy ride will take you to local shops and eateries, ensuring all your needs are met.

Important Navigational Aids

• Familiarize yourself with the following aids along the route:
- The

(iconic height) serves as a central marker when leaving the city. - Buoys and day markers in Hells Gate will indicate safe passages. - Regularly update your nautical charts with local conditions through dependable apps like

, which tracks currents and tides efficiently.

Regulations to Consider

• Always respect local no-wake zones and approach marinas and docks at slow speeds.
• Be aware of fishing regulations and designated areas—have your fishing license handy if you plan to fish from your boat.

Conclusion

This route from New York City to Riverside, CT, is truly a delightful maritime journey. With its blend of iconic landmarks, diverse wildlife, and the opportunity to explore charming coastal towns, you’ll find it perfectly suited for both leisurely boaters and those seeking adventure. Make sure to plan ahead, adhere to safety guidelines, and remember that being on the water is as much about enjoying the scenery as it is about staying safe. Happy sailing!