Pilotage Plan: Guilford, Connecticut to Westerly, Rhode Island
Overview
ThisPilotage Plan navigates from Guilford, CT to Westerly, RI, a picturesque route along the Long Island Sound and into the beautiful Rhode Island waters, suitable for experienced boaters seeking both adventure and opportunities for safe havens. As your journey unfolds, you will encounter stunning coastal vistas, charming towns, and notable landmarks. Ensuring that safety is the priority will make this a trip to remember without compromising peace of mind.
Route Description
Starting Point: Guilford, Connecticut
Your journey begins in Guilford, a charming coastal town known for its beautiful historic district and scenic shoreline. Departing from Guilford Harbor, set a course for the east, navigating through the Long Island Sound.
Notable Navigational Aids:
Guilford Harbor Buoys: Be attentive to channel markers as you exit the harbor. The entrance can be narrow, so proceed with caution.
The Faulkner’s Island Lighthouse: A historic landmark approximately 3 miles southeast from Guilford. It’s a great way to mark your progress and is a sight to behold.
Next Destination: Branford and New Haven Bays
As you glide eastward, you'll enter Branford and New Haven Bay areas. The coastline is dotted with sheltered coves suitable for a brief stop. Should weather conditions deteriorate, both bays offer good shelter from prevailing winds.
Shelter Points: The Branford River and nearby Lighthouse Point Park offer anchoring spots worth considering if the weather turns sour.
Discover Time: Take a moment to explore the quaint town of Branford for a coffee or meal.
Continuing towards Clinton and Westbrook
Proceed eastward, passing by Clinton Beach and entering Westbrook. This stretch of the journey offers stunning coastal views, ideal for leisurely navigation.
Important notes:
Approaching Old Saybrook
As you continue, the Connecticut River will be to your north. Be aware of the river's traffic; it’s popular with recreational boaters. A short side trip up the river to visit the Old Saybrook’s picturesque town can be enjoyable and provide calm waters when the Sound is choppy.
Key Navigational Points:
Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse: While cruising, keep an eye out for this historic lighthouse marking the entrance to the Connecticut River.
Heading into Rhode Island Waters
From Old Saybrook, continue east toward Point Judith, RI. As you approach the state's shore, the waters will begin to exhibit the iconic Rhode Island surf culture.
Entering Narragansett Bay
Once you reach Point Judith, you can choose to head north into Narragansett Bay or directly to Westerly. Either option offers stunning views and opportunities to enjoy the Rhode Island landscape.
Navigational Considerations:
Be mindful of tidal currentsas you're navigating the Bay. It can experience significant shifts, best approached at slack tide for easier handling.
Stay vigilant regarding local fishing vessels.This area is a favorite among local commercial fishermen.
Final Destination: Westerly, Rhode Island
Arriving in Westerly, you’ll find a friendly harbor with well-marked channels. Westerly is notably home to beautiful beaches and cultural sites:
Local Attractions: A visit to Misquamicut State Beach or the historic Wilcox Park can elevate the trip.
Harbor Safety: Martin’s Point is a good anchorage for inclement weather before heading into the harbor.
Safety Precautions and Recommendations
Before embarking, check:
Weather Conditions: Always monitor forecasts, understand the pattern of the tides, and adjust plans accordingly.
Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with any specific boating restrictions in the areas you're visiting, including no-wake zones and protected wildlife areas.
Recommended Apps
For navigation and weather monitoring, having up-to-date information is crucial. Here are a few recommended apps to enhance your experience:
Savvy Navvy: Excellent for route planning and real-time navigation, making it easy to track your progress.
Navionics: Another robust tool for charting your course and staying informed of navigational hazards.
Marine Weather: For real-time updates on conditions, ensuring you make informed choices.
This journey from Guilford to Westerly presents a captivating combination of scenic beauty, nautical challenges, and safe harbor options. It’s an adventure that emphasizes the thrill of boating while prioritizing safety along the way. Enjoy the voyage!