Edgartown to Nantucket by boat

Pilotage Plan: Edgartown, Massachusetts to Nantucket, Massachusetts

Overview:This route from Edgartown to Nantucket is an exciting yet manageable passage that offers stunning views, navigational challenges, and opportunities for fun stops and shelter along the way. Suitable for seasoned sailors as well as intermediate boaters, it demands respect for navigation and awareness of local waters, but rewards its adventurers with beautiful scenery and charming destinations.

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Departure from Edgartown:Edgartown is a picturesque harbor town located on Martha's Vineyard. Before you depart, ensure your vessel is well stocked and your safety equipment is ready. Key hazards in the area include strong currents and shoals, particularly in the Edgartown Harbor entrance. Be cautious near the entrance and remain aware of the navigation markers.

Points of Interest Nearby:While getting ready to hoist your sails, consider swinging by Chappaquiddick Island to explore the beaches or picnic at one of the local parks. Another notable area is the Edgartown Lighthouse, which provides a perfect photo opportunity.

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Route Description:Once underway, set your course generally southeast towards Nantucket. The distance between Edgartown and Nantucket is approximately 14 nautical miles. The open water between the islands can offer some swells, so ensure you’ve checked the forecast, particularly for wind and wave heights.

Navigational Aids:

• Lighthouse Information: As you leave Edgartown, keep the Edgartown Harbor Lighthouse on your starboard and head out past the buoy markers.
• Navigational Buoys: Take note of the various buoys in the area. The "ED" buoys designate safe water, while irregularly shaped “can” and “nun” markers indicate areas of danger.
• Current Considerations: The waters are often affected by tidal changes; therefore, be mindful of the times you are traveling. Typically, the ebb tide towards the south can speed up your journey, so plan accordingly.

Hazards to Avoid:

• Nantucket Shoals: Be cautious as you enter the waters surrounding Nantucket. The shoals can be deceptive, and visibility may change quickly due to weather conditions, ensuring you refer to up-to-date nautical charts.
• Strong Currents: Be prepared for changing currents as you approach Nashawena Island; check local tide tables for specifics.

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Shelter Options:If the weather takes a turn for the worse, there are two prime areas for quick refuge:

• Wasque Point: Located on Martha's Vineyard, Wasque Point provides a natural breakwater and can offer shelter against northerly winds.
• Nantucket Harbor: Once you arrive in Nantucket, the harbor offers multiple mooring options and is a great place to take a rest while you wait for conditions to improve.

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Arrival in Nantucket:As you approach Nantucket, the skyline of this charming island provides a warm welcome. The harbor can be bustling with other vessels, so stay alert to boat traffic. Utilize the local mooring facilities or tie up at the docks for a visit.

Local Attractions:While in Nantucket, make the most of your visit by exploring attractions like the Whaling Museum or taking a stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic district. Beaches and beautiful bike paths are also a short distance from the harbor, perfect for relaxing after your boating adventure.

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Final Thoughts:This route from Edgartown to Nantucket is designed for boaters who appreciate scenic beauty but are also mindful of safety. The combination of charming destinations, navigational challenges, and potential hazards makes it perfect for those looking to enhance their boating skills while enjoying a day on the water.

Safety Apps Recommendation:Before you set out, ensure you have essential navigation apps on hand. Savvy Navvy is outstanding for chart plotting and up-to-the-minute tide and weather information, along with other options like Navionics and iNavX for additional navigation aid.

With this pilotage plan, you’re well-prepared to navigate safely and enjoy all the beauty and adventure the waters between Edgartown and Nantucket have to offer!