Highlands to Brooklyn by boat

Pilotage Plan: Highlands, NJ to Brooklyn, NY

Overview

Setting off from Highlands, NJ, and making your way to Brooklyn, NY, you embark on a route that not only presents opportunities for safe navigation but also allows you to experience the vibrant waterways that lead into New York Harbor. This trip, while suitable for more experienced boaters familiar with coastal navigation and local weather conditions, is rich with points of interest, sheltered bays, and important navigational considerations that ensure safety on your journey.

Departure Point: Highlands, NJ

Begin your voyage from Highlands, located at the picturesque Sandy Hook Bay. It's a charming starting point that provides easy access to open water and beautiful views of the surrounding area. Before you cast off, ensure you have checked local weather conditions and tide tables, as they can change quickly.

Route Description

Your course will take you through Sandy Hook Bay and into the cheerful waters of Lower New York Harbor. Here’s a step-by-step description of the route:

1. Sandy Hook Bay - As you leave Highlands, keep an eye on the sandy shores of Sandy Hook, famous for its historic lighthouse (the Sandy Hook Lighthouse), a great spot for a quick photo op. This bay offers good protection and is a favorable leave point if weather turns sour.

2. Entering Lower New York Harbor - After navigating around the Sandy Hook National Park, you'll want to proceed towards the channel leading into Lower New York Harbor. Watch for the navigational aids here; buoys marking the channels often change, especially with shifting sandbars, so be attentive to your charts.

3. Navigational Considerations - Pay attention to: - Red (even) and Green (odd) markers which signify the channel. These are vital to ensure you remain within the confines of safe passage. - As you approach the Narrows, be aware of tidal currents that can be strong. Studying the tide schedule before your trip can help you take advantage of favorable currents, especially when approaching the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.

4. Sheltered Bays - Should you find the winds or forces of nature becoming adverse, you can consider turning back into Sandy Hook, or alternatively, head toward Bayside along the Fort Wadsworth, which can act as a refuge from the open waters of the harbor.

5. Brooklyn's Arrival - As you approach Brooklyn, keep an eye out for the impressive skyline, particularly the Statue of Liberty, which can be a stunning sight from the water. Ensure to navigate towards the designated docking areas in Brooklyn upon arrival, and follow all local mooring regulations.

Points of Interest Along the Way

• Sandy Hook Light: The oldest operating lighthouse in the U.S. provides a rich history and a serene backdrop.
• Liberty State Park: A great point to stop and appreciate views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
• Brooklyn Bridge: As you dock in Brooklyn, the bridge presents a spectacular sight, offering photographs that capture this iconic structure at sunset.

Safety Tips

• Always check the VHF radio for local weather updates and navigational advisories as you travel.
• Maintain a vigilant lookout for local commercial traffic; several ferries and cargo ships navigate these waters and can create wake.
• Consider using navigational apps such as Savvy Navvy, which provides live tracking, route planning, and marina information.

Conclusion

This route is perfect for the seasoned cruiser looking for a combination of scenic beauty, safe navigation, and a sprinkle of New York City culture. Prioritize weather conditions, familiarize yourself with the navigational aids, and always respect the local boating regulations to ensure a memorable and safe trip from Highlands to Brooklyn. Enjoy your time on the water, and soak up everything this vibrant maritime adventure has to offer!