City of New York to Stony Brook by boat

Pilotage Plan from New York, NY to Stony Brook, NY

Overview

Embarking on this scenic journey from the bustling City of New York to the serene shores of Stony Brook presents a unique blend of urban navigation, picturesque landscapes, and charming harbors. This route is ideal for seasoned cruisers and families alike, providing ample opportunities to explore, with an emphasis on safety and awareness of local conditions.

Departure: City of New York, NY

Starting Coordinates: Longitude -73.8505, Latitude 40.7742

As you set sail from the busy waters around New York City, awareness of commercial traffic is crucial. The harbor is filled with ferries, cargo ships, and pleasure craft, so maintaining a proper lookout and staying within designated channels is vital.

Waypoints & Navigation Considerations

1. East River: - As you navigate into the East River, you'll be lined with iconic sights such as the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Governor's Island. - Watch for tidal currents in the area, especially around Hell Gate, which can be tricky. Timing your passage with the tide can greatly ease your journey.

2. Long Island Sound: - Upon exiting the East River into Long Island Sound, the waters open up providing a more relaxed sailing experience. - Keep an eye out for navigational buoys marking the channels and maintain communication with the surrounding traffic on VHF channel 16.

3. Notable Shelters on Route: - Consider stopping at City Island (located in the Bronx), a quaint community with lovely restaurants and marine stores. The harbor here can provide good shelter if weather conditions deteriorate. - Manhasset Bay is another ideal spot to anchor down. It's well-protected and offers amenities such as launching ramps, marinas, and restaurants.

4. Heading Towards Stony Brook: - As you approach the northern shore of the Sound, be mindful of local regulations regarding No Wake zones, particularly in residential areas and marinas. - Keep an eye out for the significant landmark of Orient Point Lighthouse as a navigational reference and a picturesque stopping point.

Arrival: Stony Brook, NY

Destination Coordinates: Longitude -73.1505, Latitude 40.9202

Stony Brook welcomes you with its beautiful coastal charm. Here, you can explore local attractions such as the Long Island Museum of American Art, History, and Carriages or the gorgeous Stony Brook Village Center.

Safety Considerations

• Weather Monitoring: Always check the weather forecast before departure and regularly while at sea. The waters can change rapidly, especially in the late afternoon.
• Navigation Tools: Utilize navigation apps like Savvy Navvy. It’s a great tool for charting your course, understanding tides, and getting up-to-date information on marine hazards.
• Life Jackets: Make sure every passenger has a properly fitting life jacket, and keep them easily accessible.
• Local Rules: Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations, such as speed limits and fishing restrictions in designated areas.

Conclusion

This journey from New York City to Stony Brook is a delightful mix of urban sights and coastal charms, ideal for adventure-seeking boaters. By maintaining awareness of navigational aids and local regulations, and knowing where to seek shelter, you'll ensure a safe and memorable experience on the water. With each passing mile, you're not just traveling—you're absorbing the unique maritime tapestry that is Long Island Sound. Happy boating!