### Pilotage Plan: Hudson, NY to Marlboro, NY#### OverviewThis boat trip from Hudson, NY to Marlboro, NY provides a delightful mix of scenic views of the Hudson River, charming small towns, and opportunities for safe anchorage. While the distance may seem short, this journey affords recreational boaters a chance to immerse themselves in the majesty of nature while navigating a relatively calm and scenic waterway.#### Route DescriptionThe route begins at the dock in Hudson, a vibrant river town known for its antique shops and art galleries. Departing Hudson, the journey heads south along the Hudson River, navigating through some notable landmarks and scenic vistas. 1. **Departure from Hudson (Long/Lat: -73.799, 42.2555)** - Safety Tip: Ensure that your vessel is checked for seaworthiness: confirm life jackets are onboard, the engine is functioning properly, and electronic navigation aids are operative. 2. **Navigating Downriver** - As you set forth, you'll be gliding through the scenic Hudson Valley. Take note of the depth of the river, as it can vary. The average depth is generally safe for most recreational vessels, but always keep an eye on your depth finder and consult your charts.3. **Points of Interest Along the Way** - **Olana State Historic Site:** Just after leaving Hudson, you can anchor briefly to admire the stunning Persian-inspired home of the painter Frederic Edwin Church. Perfect for a short visit or a leisurely swim if the weather permits. - **Greenport:** This small, charming community can provide a brief respite and a chance to stock up on supplies or enjoy a meal at the local diner.4. **Shelter Opportunities** - In case of deteriorating weather, there are a couple of bays and harbors to consider for shelter: - **Catskill Creek:** About halfway through your journey, Catskill Creek can be a fantastic anchorage. It offers well-protected waters and access to local amenities. - **Mott's Cove:** Just before reaching the dock in Marlboro, this cove offers good protection from wind and can be a safe haven if sudden storms arise.#### Navigational Aids and Considerations- The Hudson River is generally well-marked, with buoys and navigation signs. Maintain a careful watch for: - **Bays and Races:** Look out for shallow areas and potential obstacles, especially when the tide is low. - **Commercial Traffic:** The Hudson is also a working river, so adhere to navigation markers that indicate areas of commercial shipping. Keep a distance from larger vessels and their wake. - **Weather Check:** Always monitor weather conditions before and during your journey. The unpredictability of thunderstorms in summer can change plans rapidly; be prepared to alter your course and seek shelter if necessary.#### Local Regulations- Be aware of local speed limitations, especially near towns and residential areas. These speed limits help ensure the safety of all water users.- Pollution regulations are enforced on the river; be sure to follow proper disposal methods for waste and refrain from disposing of anything overboard.### ConclusionThis route from Hudson to Marlboro combines an enjoyable boating experience with critical safety considerations. It’s suitable for recreational boaters seeking a weekend trip or a day on the water, allowing for both exploration and relaxation. To enhance navigation, consider downloading boating apps such as **savvy navvy**, which provides navigational assistance and real-time weather updates. By adhering to safety protocols and paying attention to your surroundings, you can ensure a delightful and trouble-free journey. Enjoy the adventure on the picturesque Hudson River!