Pilotage Plan: Havre de Grace, Maryland, to Bear, Delaware
Overview This route from Havre de Grace, Maryland, to Bear, Delaware, will take you through some of the most scenic waterways along the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. This is an ideal trip for experienced cruisers and recreational boaters alike, offering a perfect mix of beautiful landscapes, protective bays for shelter, and interesting local points of interest along the way.
Departure Point: Havre de Grace, MD Starting coordinates: Longitude -76.0836, Latitude 39.5459 Havre de Grace is a charming waterfront city located at the confluence of the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay. Before departing, take a moment to enjoy the sights at the Havre de Grace Maritime Museum, which offers a rich history of the area's maritime heritage.
Route Navigation:
1. Leaving Havre de Grace: Navigate south along the Susquehanna River towards its mouth. Watch for navigational aids as you approach the Chesapeake Bay, particularly channel markers indicating safe passage out of the river.
2. Into the Chesapeake Bay: Once in the Bay, you’ll have a clear westward course, heading toward the Elk River's entrance. Keep an eye on your charts for potential fishing vessels and other watercraft, particularly during the weekends when boat traffic increases.
3. Elk River Entrance: As you reach the mouth of the Elk River, consider stopping at Upper Chesapeake Bay near Turkey Point. This area provides a lovely backdrop and opportunities for swimming or picnicking.
4. Sailing Down the Elk River: Continue south past Cecilton and toward the mouth of the Elk River channel. This will lead you to a sheltered bay area—Bohemia Bay—which is an excellent spot to take cover should the weather turn unfavorable. The bay is relatively well-protected from strong winds, making it a safe haven.
5. Improving Navigation: Instrumentation is key here. Ensure your GPS is properly set and that you follow the local navigational charts. You might want to use apps like Savvy Navvy to monitor your path effectively. It provides accurate charts, local weather, and tide data, giving you an edge on your journey.
6. Continuing Towards Bear, DE: After passing through the Elk River, head southeast on a stable course towards the C&D Canal. The canal can be busy, so heed all posted regulations and speed limits. Keep your radio tuned to the local VHF channels for any navigation updates or potential traffic alerts.
7. Navigational Considerations: Ascertain you are aware of the causal shipping lanes within the canal. Be mindful of the occasional barge traffic and give way when directed.
8. Arriving at Bear, DE: Transitioning from the C&D Canal into the Delaware River, your journey comes to an end as you approach the picturesque Bear area. Known for its quaint charm and recreational activities, Bear marks a wonderful closing destination for your trip.
In summary, this journey from Havre de Grace to Bear blends the beauty of local landscapes with critical safety considerations, making it suitable for both seasoned sailors and casual boaters. So get ready for an adventure that balances exploration with tranquility, enhanced by stunning vistas and protected bays along your route. Safe travels!