Pilotage Plan: Edgewater, Maryland to Bear, Delaware
Route Overview:This route will take you from the serene shores of Edgewater, Maryland, navigating towards Bear, Delaware, following a journey that intertwines natural beauty and historical significance while ensuring safety and shelter throughout. This excursion is particularly suitable for seasoned boaters and those seeking a safe passage through sheltered waters, although novice boaters will also find the route manageable with proper navigation and due diligence.
Starting Point: Edgewater, MarylandBegin your journey in Edgewater, a quaint town nestled along the Chesapeake Bay. Prior to departure, gather your boating essentials, check the weather forecast, and ensure your vessel is equipped with safety gear, including life jackets, a first-aid kit, and fire extinguishers.
Heading Towards the Chesapeake Bay:Your first leg takes you north to the mouth of the West River, an easy way to access the larger waters of the Chesapeake. Navigate through the river, keeping a watchful eye on markers. Buoy
Navigational Aids and Hazards:As you navigate the Chesapeake Bay, pay attention to navigation aids such as day beacons and lighthouses. Notable ones include the Thomas Point Light, an iconic structure easily recognizable from a distance. While the bay is generally wide and navigable, be cautious of shoals and shifting tides, especially in areas like the Sandy Point State Park.
Potential Shelter:If the weather turns, consider diverting to:
Continuing Towards Delaware:After navigating the bay, set your sights on the Sassafras River. This section of your journey begets a tranquil wilderness of creeks and marshes, perfect for spotting wildlife. The river is not heavily trafficked, but stay aware of crab pots - they can be an obstruction. Mark the entrance well; the Sassafras is well-marked with navigational buoys, and the channel is straightforward, leading you toward the bridge over the river.
Towards Bear, Delaware:Once you’ve traversed the Sassafras, continue towards your destination by charting through the C&D Canal, which connects the Chesapeake Bay to the Delaware River. The C&D Canal is a busy thoroughfare, however it is also well-marked, and you will find helpful navigation aids like side-range markers helping you keep a safe line through this channel. This section poses an exciting contrast to the serene waters you have traversed so far.
Points of Interest:On your route, you can stop at:
Final Leg to Bear, Delaware:As you approach Bear, be sure to utilize your navigation apps for updated weather conditions and navigational assistance. Apps like Savvy Navvy provide user-friendly chartplotting tools and tidal calculations that help to ensure a smooth arrival.
Safety Considerations:Throughout your journey, maintain close attention to the current weather conditions. Fog can roll in quickly, especially over the bay. It’s also crucial to keep your VHF radio on channel 16 for emergencies and to make periodic position reports if you’re traveling on busy waterways or in less trafficked areas.
Conclusion:This route from Edgewater to Bear is not only a passage of beauty but a wonderful opportunity to connect with the rich maritime heritage while navigating through some of the safest waters in the Mid-Atlantic region. Perfect for boaters looking for a mix of tranquility and adventure, the opportunity for exploration and the safety of well-traveled routes come together for a delightful journey on the water. Happy boating!