This journey from Fair Haven, NJ, to Brooklyn, NY, offers an exciting mix of navigational challenges, scenic views, and opportunities for exploration. Covering approximately 35 nautical miles, this trip is well-suited for experienced recreational boaters seeking a balance between safety and enjoyment on the water. With suitable shelter options and captivating landmarks along the way, this route presents an ideal long-day trip or a relaxed weekend adventure, with safety as the top priority.
Coordinates: Longitude -74.03725, Latitude 40.3675
Begin your journey in the tranquil waters of Fair Haven. Before you head out, double-check your vessel's equipment, ensuring all safety gear is aboard, including life jackets, a First Aid kit, flares, and fire extinguishers. It’s wise to familiarize yourself with local weather conditions; early mornings can often bring unexpected fog.
Key Considerations:
1. Navesink River Your first leg takes you down the Navesink River, a serene route rich with local wildlife. Keep an eye out for markers indicating minimum depths, as this area can become shallow at low tide. The riverbanks are adorned with beautifully historic estates, a lovely sight as you cruise south.
2. Sandy Hook Bay After approximately 5 nautical miles, you'll enter Sandy Hook Bay. This expansive body of water can be busy with commercial traffic and recreational vessels, particularly on weekends. As a boater, stay alert for the Navigational Aids: Green
Shelters: - If conditions turn unfavorable, Rumson and Highlands offer well-protected bays instantaneously rejoicing with their charming waterfront views.
3. Entering the Atlantic Ocean Navigating east will lead you to the inlet but always respect any boat traffic entering or exiting the bay. Once you're in the open ocean, maintaining a watchful eye on marine traffic is crucial; commercial barges and ferries regularly use this route.
4. Rounding Sandy Hook As you continue south along the shore, you’ll come around Sandy Hook Lighthouse – the oldest working lighthouse in the U.S. This is a good spot for a break, with beaches to stretch your legs and enjoy the view.
5. New York Harbor Approaching As you approach New York Harbor, stay in the designated channels marked clearly by buoys. Monitor VHF Channel 13 for navigational guidance among the commercial fleet. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island may be tempting for a detour if time allows; they are breathtaking views from the water and rich with history.
6. Entering Upper New York Bay Take care as you navigate towards Brooklyn; congestion increases significantly. Look for the Brooklyn Bridge as you prepare for your final approach, it's a navigational highlight.
Upon arrival in Brooklyn, you can dock at several marinas and piers. Ensure you have picked a suitable docking location and have the necessary reservations in advance, particularly during busy times.
This scenic route from Fair Haven to Brooklyn delivers both fun and instruction while prioritizing your safety on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a recreational boater, enjoy the beauty of the coastline and the thrill of cruising towards one of New York's greatest cities. Bon Voyage!