Falmouth to Harwich by boat

Pilotage Plan from Falmouth, Massachusetts, to Harwich, Massachusetts

Overview

This route takes you from the beautiful coastal town of Falmouth to the slightly more urban setting of Harwich. The journey spans approximately 20 nautical miles, offering scenic views of Cape Cod’s coast and various points of interest along the way. The route is particularly suitable for intermediate boaters who have a good grasp of navigation and seamanship, ensuring a pleasurable yet safe trip.

Starting Point: Falmouth, MA

Falmouth, known for its quaint harbor and historic charm, offers ample facilities for boaters. Before departure, it’s advised to inspect current weather conditions and prepare your vessel adequately. The Falmouth Harbor is a pleasant location to begin your journey.

Notable Points of Interest:

• Waquoit Bay: Just a few miles from Falmouth, this picturesque bay is great for a short stop. It's a great spot for wildlife observation including seals and various bird species.
• Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge: This area offers beautiful nature trails and serene views, perfect for a leisurely exploration while you’re anchored.

Points of Shelter

As you set sail, keep in mind these recommended sheltered areas should the weather turn inclement:
• Cotuit Bay: Located just south of Falmouth, it provides excellent refuge in rough conditions with plenty of safe anchoring spots.
• Stage Harbor, Chatham: Further along the route, this harbor provides good protection and facilities if you need to wait out bad weather.

Route Navigation Details

1.

- Head out of Falmouth Harbor towards the south-east. - Keep a lookout for navigational aids, especially Falmouth Breakwater Light (Fl W 4s 20ft 5M), which will guide you safely out of harbor.

2. Tracking Cape Cod Canal: - As you progress, you’ll have the option to enter the Cape Cod Canal. Note that this is a high-traffic area with various regulations. Monitor VHF channel 13 for notifications on vessel movements. - You can navigate through the canal to save time, but it’s not mandatory— sticking along the outer route offers beautiful coastal scenery.

3. Navigational Aids: - Pay attention to buoys marking shallow areas; they are vital in ensuring safe passage. - The combination of lighthouses and buoys—such as those around Nobska Light—will serve as reliable checkpoints as you leave Falmouth.

4. Onward to Harwich: - After clearing the Canal, you’ll start on the final stretch towards Harwich. Keeping your vessel well to the east of Nantucket Sound is recommended to avoid unpredictable currents. - As you approach Harwich, the nearby Monomoy Islands are a wonderful sight and a great place for a pause if the weather permits.

Arrival at Harwich

Upon reaching Harwich, the town provides various facilities for refueling and rest. The picturesque harbor is bustling with local marine life and is perfect for enjoying local eateries.

Safety Points to Consider

• Always check weather forecasts as conditions can change rapidly in this region, especially in the summer months when storms can develop quickly.
• Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations specific to the areas you will be traversing, particularly concerning wildlife protection zones around the Mashpee Refuge and Monomoy Islands.
• Keep a lookout for local traffic; the area can get busy with recreational boaters, especially in peak season.

To enhance your navigational experience, consider utilizing apps like Savvy Navvy, which simplifies route planning and helps in understanding local waters through its interactive charts. Other useful apps include Navionics for detailed nautical maps and Windy for up-to-date weather information.

This trip encapsulates the best of Cape Cod with its breathtaking coastal views and safe harbors lining the route. With a commitment to safety and a spirit of adventure, this journey promises both beauty and enjoyable boating experiences for every mariner.