### Pilotage Plan: Hudson, NY to Poughkeepsie, NY#### OverviewThis journey along the majestic Hudson River is not just a delightful nautical adventure; it’s a well-planned route for seasoned boaters and novices alike. The stretch from Hudson to Poughkeepsie offers picturesque views, interesting landmarks, and safe havens should weather conditions shift unexpectedly. #### Departure from Hudson, NYStarting your trip in Hudson, you'll enjoy the historic ambiance of this charming town. Before setting off, ensure your vessel is equipped with safety gear and all navigational tools. **Hazards and Notable Points:**- **Marina Facilities:** There are several marinas in Hudson where you can refuel or gather supplies before your journey.- **Navigation Aids:** Be aware of the North and South buoys that guide your departure from the Hudson waterfront.#### First Leg: Hudson to CatskillAs you set sail southbound from Hudson, keep a steady course along the river. The first notable stop is Catskill, approximately 8 nautical miles downriver.**Points of Interest:**- **Catskill Point:** A great place to drop anchor and enjoy some leisure. The parks offer picnic areas and beautiful views, making it ideal for a quick break.- **Schoharie Creek:** Watch for buoys marking the creek entrance. It’s a serene area, although it’s advisable to stay cautious of the changing currents.**Navigational Considerations:**- Remain attentive to the channel markers, as the Hudson has strong currents in some spots. The water depth can vary, so make sure to check your charts.#### Shelter Options: Just below Catskill lies **Kaal Rock** and **Hures Pond**, both of which are suitable for temporary shelter in inclement weather. The calm waters here can provide a safe haven to wait out any storms.#### Second Leg: Catskill to KingstonContinuing south, keep an eye out as you approach the next notable point—Kingston. This part of the journey is more scenic, with lush greenery lining the banks.**Points of Interest:**- **Kingston Waterfront:** Perfect for a leisurely stop. The bustling waterfront features restaurants, shops, and historical landmarks, including the Hudson River Maritime Museum.- **Sloop Clearwater:** An iconic vessel that symbolizes environmental efforts; it's worth a visit, especially if they have events scheduled.**Navigational Considerations:**- Be mindful of the **Kingston Rhinecliff Bridge**—make sure you know the navigational clearance as you pass underneath.- Look out for fishing boats, especially near the river mouths where creeks enter the Hudson.#### Emergency Shelters:In case of sudden weather changes, **Roundout Creek** offers a sheltered entrance and calm waters. It’s a fantastic spot to anchor safely and reassess your plans.#### Final Leg: Kingston to PoughkeepsieThe last stretch takes you to Poughkeepsie, about 15 nautical miles downstream. This leg is particularly beautiful, with panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains.**Points of Interest:**- **Walkway Over the Hudson:** A must-see. This historic rail bridge has been converted into a pedestrian walkway offering unrivaled views.- **Vanderbilt Mansion State Historic Site:** A short detour for those interested in history and beautiful gardens.**Navigational Considerations:**- Be aware of shipping traffic as you approach Poughkeepsie. Stay clear of the main navigational channels to avoid larger vessels.- Follow the buoys into the Poughkeepsie harbor carefully, maintaining a visual lookout for sailboats and other recreational craft.### Safety and RegulationsSafety should always be your primary concern. Before embarking, ensure you:- Have life jackets readily available for all passengers.- Check weather conditions regularly using reliable apps like **Savvy Navvy**, which provides real-time updates on tides and weather, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.- Adhere to local speed restrictions, especially near congested areas, and respect all wildlife habitats along the river.The route from Hudson to Poughkeepsie encapsulates the charm of the Hudson River, offering a variety of experiences, serene anchorages, and ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and nature. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a more experienced mariner looking for a day on the water, this is a beautifully navigable journey that promises to provide both solace and adventure. Safe travels on your maiden voyage!