**Pilotage Plan: Grand Island, NY to Buffalo, NY****Starting Point: Grand Island, New York, USA**As you prepare to embark on your journey from Grand Island, look around at the natural beauty surrounding you—a mixture of serene parkland and open waters of the Niagara River. Ensure your vessel is equipped with the necessary safety gear, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, and navigation equipment.**Route Overview:**Your route takes you down the river towards Buffalo, a distance of approximately 10 nautical miles. This trip is suitable for recreational boaters with moderate experience, as the navigation involves simple waterways but requires attention to local regulations and possible hazards.**Navigational Considerations:**1. **Hazards:** - **Niagara River Current:** The Niagara River is known for its strong currents. Pay close attention as you navigate, keeping your speed in check, especially near the shorelines where currents may be more unpredictable. - **Rocky Areas and Shallow Depths:** Watch out for rocks and shallow areas particularly as you approach the Buffalo Harbor entrance.2. **Landmarks and Points of Interest:** - **Riverside Park:** As you cruise along, take a moment to explore Riverside Park on the mainland. It offers beautiful views and potential picnic spots. - **Buffalo Lighthouse:** As you near Buffalo, keep an eye on the historic Buffalo Lighthouse. The structure has a fascinating history and is a great photo opportunity. - **Erie Basin Marina:** Both a scenic spot to stop and a full-service marina where you can refuel, grab a bite, or simply stretch your legs. Restaurants and walking paths abound.3. **Shelter Options:** - Should the weather take a turn, the Buffalo Harbor offers safe haven as it provides ample area to tuck in and wait for bad weather to pass. Additionally, St. Mary’s Park on the river’s edge presents a sheltered location to moor temporarily.**Navigational Aids:**- **Green and Red Buoys:** Keep a steady watch on the channel markers along the river. Green buoys indicate the starboard side while passing upstream, and red buoys indicate the port side.- **Lighthouses and Daymarks:** The Buffalo Harbor entry is marked by several distinctive daymarks which guide you toward safe entry into the harbor.**Regulations:**- **Speed Limits:** Familiarize yourself with the local speed limits on navigable waters—typically no-wake zones exist in congested areas or near marinas.- **Fishing and Recreation Regulations:** If you plan to fish, ensure you have the appropriate licenses and adhere to local catch limits.**Conclusion:**This trip from Grand Island to Buffalo is perfect for those wishing to experience the natural and urban landscapes of Western New York, all while keeping safety at the forefront. The journey takes you through the heart of the beautiful Niagara River, with points of interest that allow for enjoyment and relaxation. As you navigate, tools such as savvy navvy and other marine navigation apps can greatly aid in your planning and real-time guidance on hazards, weather, and local conditions.Prepare well, respect the waters, and you'll have a delightful journey as you cruise between these two vibrant locations. Safe travels!