### Pilotage Plan: City of Rye, NY to New York, NYEmbarking from the charming City of Rye, located along the shores of Long Island Sound, presents a wonderful opportunity to navigate through a mix of serene waters, bustling harbors, and iconic cityscapes. This route offers a balance of safety, adventure, and stunning views, making it particularly suitable for intermediate and advanced boaters looking for a memorable day on the water.#### **Route Overview:**- **Starting Point:** City of Rye, NY (Coordinates: -73.71, 40.941)- **Ending Point:** New York, NY (Coordinates: -74.0116666667, 40.7453333333)- **Distance:** Approximately 25 nautical miles depending on your chosen path along the coastline and through any channels.#### **Leg 1: Departing City of Rye**As you untie from the docks in Rye, ensure that all maritime safety equipment is on board and operational. Before heading out, check local weather conditions, as the waters can become choppy if storms arise.#### **Navigational Hazards and Aids**As you exit the Rye harbor, keep an eye out for the following navigational features:- **Rye Breakwater Light** (Mark: "RW" on charts): This aids in guiding vessels safely through the coastal entry and is an essential landmark as you make your way out into Long Island Sound.- Remain aware of local fishing boats and other recreational vessels as you navigate through this busy waterscape.#### **Shelter & Points of Interest Along the Route**1. **Port Chester Harbor**: Just to the west of Rye, this harbor offers a safe anchorage if conditions worsen. The harbor also has restaurants and facilities for refueling, making it a great pit-stop.2. **Greenwich Point Park**: As you approach the Connecticut state line, consider a short stop at this scenic area, which offers picnic spots and beautiful sandy beaches. This is an ideal spot for a quick break where you can stretch your legs and take in the views.3. **Byram River**: Another option for sheltered waters is the Byram River, which provides a calm retreat if the winds pick up.#### **Leg 2: Navigating Towards New York City**Once you have rounded the Point, head south towards the iconic skyline of New York City. This section includes navigating through more densely trafficked waters, including ferry routes. Remember to keep a sharp lookout for:- **Navigation Lights** on your charts, particularly during the evening hours.- **Ferry Traffic**: Be prepared for the many ferry operations crisscrossing the waters towards Manhattan. Maintaining a safe distance is crucial here.#### **New York City Waters: Important Regulations**As you approach the harbor, familiarize yourself with the Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) regulations in the area. The VTS monitors vessel movements and communicates essential information, including any current hazards and traffic patterns. - Consider utilizing the **New York Harbor VTS** frequency (VHF Ch 14) for updates.- Maintain a 500-foot distance from the Staten Island ferries as per local guidance.#### **Entering New York Harbor**Upon entering New York Harbor, you'll be greeted by the majestic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, providing an excellent chance for stunning photographs. Keep an eye out for:- **AIS (Automatic Identification System)**: Equipping your vessel with AIS can greatly enhance your situational awareness, especially in busy waters.### **Recommended Apps for Safe Navigation**To further enhance your navigational safety, consider using:- **Savvy Navvy**: Excellent for route planning, this app provides detailed maps and real-time weather updates.- **Navionics**: Great for charts and detailed marine mapping.- **Windy**: Very useful for real-time weather forecasts and wind conditions.With this pilotage plan, your cruising adventure from the City of Rye to New York City is set for smooth sailing, enriched with stunning views and key shelters along the way. Remember to keep your safety gear on hand, pay attention to navigational aids, and embrace the experience of the vibrant maritime world. Enjoy your journey!