City of New York to Tarrytown by boat

Pilotage Plan: NYC to Tarrytown, NY

Route Overview

Embarking from New York City, renowned for its bustling skyline, you’ll navigate northward toward Tarrytown, a charming village situated along the picturesque Hudson River. This route showcases a blend of urban landscapes and serene natural vistas, perfect for cruising enthusiasts eager to experience both the excitement of city life and the tranquility of the river.

Departure: City of New York, NY

Begin your journey at coordinates -73.85052, 40.77421. Before setting sail, ensure your vessel is equipped with all necessary safety gear: life jackets, flares, a first aid kit, and a reliable VHF radio. Also, check the local marine weather forecast to avoid any unexpected storms.

Notable Points of Interest and Shelter Bays

As you embark, keep an eye out for key landmarks:

1. Governors Island - A short distance from your starting point, this island offers a peaceful retreat from the city buzz. You can drop anchor and explore its parks and historical sites.

2. Liberty Island and Ellis Island - Passing the Statue of Liberty is a highlight on this route. Consider a brief stop to take photos and admire the view of the iconic statue.

3. Hoboken Waterfront - A great place for refreshments, the waterfront has parks, restaurants, and stunning views of Manhattan. Ideal for a quick break.

4. Weehawken Cove - A strategically sheltered bay that provides excellent anchorage in case of inclement weather. It’s also an entry point for the Weehawken marina with local amenities such as fuel and provisions.

5. Pier A Park - A lovely spot to dock and stretch your legs, packed with historical markers and a great view of the harbor.

Navigational Considerations

As you make your way north along the Hudson River, keep these navigational aids in mind:

• Navigational Aids: Rely on buoys and markers as you proceed. Pay particular attention to the green and red aids marking the shipping channel; remember, keep the green buoy to your right when heading upstream.

• Tide and Currents: The Hudson experiences significant tidal flow; plan your timing to coincide with favorable currents to optimize your progress. Be alert for strong currents that can affect your maneuverability, especially in narrow sections of the river.

Risks and Local Regulations

While the Hudson River is generally safe, certain areas can present hazards:

• Ferry Traffic: Be vigilant near ferry routes, particularly in the area around Battery Park and up north near Yonkers. Ferries travel at speed and have the right of way. Maintain a safe distance and monitor VHF channels for announcements.

• Commercial Shipping: Large vessels also frequent the Hudson. Keep clear of shipping lanes and listen for any calling instructions over the radio, especially near the ports of New York and New Jersey.

• Environmental Regulations: Respect local wildlife habitats, especially around marshlands and protected areas as you approach Tarrytown. Be sure to clean up after any stops and adhere to 'no-wake' zones to protect shorelines and wildlife habitats.

Approaching Tarrytown, NY

As you get closer to your destination, Tarrytown will greet you with a stunning view of the Tappan Zee Bridge. The Hudson River here widens, offering ample anchorage options.

1. Tarrytown Marina - A full-service marina offering transient dockage, fueling services, and nearby dining options. Perfect for a night halt or longer stay to explore the town.

2. Sleepy Hollow - A stone’s throw from Tarrytown, you can venture to the famous Sleepy Hollow for scenic tours and historical attractions, including the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and the historic sites linked to Washington Irving’s tales.

Recommended Boating Apps

To enhance your cruising experience, consider using boating apps such as:
• Savvy Navvy: An excellent tool for navigating the waters with ease, providing charts and route planning functionalities.
• Additional apps you may find useful include Navionics for detailed charts and Windy for weather updates.

This route from New York City to Tarrytown offers a delightful blend of safety, stunning sights, and opportunities for exploration. While your primary focus should always be safety, the appeal of cozy stops and remarkable views will undoubtedly make for a memorable boating experience. Happy cruising!